With evidence of human life as far as 9,000 years ago, the Paint Mines is a geological structure unlike any other in Colorado. With their name coming from the colorful clays that were collected by Native Americans to make paint. Brightly colored bands in golden yellow, rose pink, snowy white, and mauve, caused by oxidized iron compounds, are found in varying amounts throughout the many different layers of clay in the park. From hiking among the tall spires called "hoodoos" to viewing some of the best stargazing in the region, nothing quite compares to these 750 acres of pure Colorado beauty. All of the trails take you to the same location and keep your eyes open for a variety of plant and animal life.
Check out our new webcam!
