Top 10 Must Visit Small Towns

Items for Your Bucket List 

Buckle up, Jeep enthusiasts! It's time to hit the open road and explore some of America's hidden gems.  I've have been to a lot of small towns across the country. These charming destinations offer a delightful mix of scenic beauty, rich history, and small-town hospitality that will make your Jeep journey unforgettable. So, grab your keys, lower those windows, and let's embark on a road trip to discover these off-the-beaten-path treasures that are just begging to be explored from behind the wheel of your beloved Jeep.

San Luis Valley, Colorado

Saguache, Home of the Original Jeep Rescue League, in the heart of the Rockies, a must see! Several vintage and antique Jeeps on display along with some cool military vehicles. The headquarters is also home to several military exhibits.

Saving Jeeps one Jeep at a Time Blog Post 

photo courtesy The Jeep Rescue League

Nearby this small mountain town is Elephant rocks, and Natural Arch just a short drive from Del Norte, Colorado. Del Norte is settled along the Rio Grande River which is a great place for some fishing. About an hour's drive is Great Sand Dunes National Park and Zapata Falls. There is a fun off-road trail in the Sand Dunes park up to Medano pass where you can see some amazing views. 

Nearby is Monte Vista home to the Crane Festival where you will find more 4x4 trails. Just a short drive from Monte Vista is the trail Bishop's Rock as well as trails that will lead you to Elwood Pass as well. The Gaia GPS app will help you find these trails. 

There is a Jeep adventure in all directions from the San Luis Valley. Check out the Chinaman's Gulch Trail & Carnage Canyon a trail for only series rock crawlers just over Poncha Springs Pass, near Buena Vista Colorado.  A mecca of fun for any overlander. See other my other Colorado towns for more great Jeep Trails.

Moab, Utah

A must stop for every off-roader! However, you don't need to be an off-roader to enjoy Moab. There is so much beauty to see. Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, The Colorado River, 3 Scenic By-ways - Utah 128 is absolutely breathtaking, Deadhorse state park and nearby ghost town Cisco. 

Jeep Momma Moab Adventure

Selfie at Arches National Park

Oatman, Arizona

A small village on old Route 66 in Mojave County, Arizona. Fun shops and "wild" Burros that wander the streets. The Burros are descendants of the burros brought to the area by the miners. In the early 1900's Oatman, a tent city, was a thriving gold mining center. 

I rated Route 66 to Oatman on of my top 5 scenic routes on Black Top.  

Donkey on the streets of Oatman

Creede, Colorado

A quaint small town nestled in the mountains of Colorado. Main Street shopping, nearby Stoney Creek Pass a 4x4 trail that takes you to the Alpine Loop Near Silverton, Colorado. 

There are other great scenic drives bachelor’s Loop Tour a 22-mile scenic off road drive up and around the historic mining district. The trail is rated moderate. 

Just down the road is Pool Table Road which takes you the Wheeler Geological Area which has the most fantastic geological features in the San Juan Mountains. Another must see North Clear Creek Falls and South Clear Creek Fall Unexpected scenic waterfall just off the highway. 

North Clear Creek Falls, Colorado

Lake City, Colorado

Once you leave Creede, Colorado you just take scenic by-way Colorado 149 up to Lake City, Colorado. Another quaint little town nestled in the San Juan Mountain range. Rocky Canyons with high valley floors and crystalline flowing rivers with miles of outdoor beauty. 

A small town with big history, Lake San Cristobal with boating, fishing, and other water activities. Plenty of hiking opportunities and Ghost towns nearby. Engineer Pass a Jeep Badge of Honor Tour, one of Colorado's highest roads takes you over to the Alpine Loop which is full of mining history and ghost towns.

My Jeep on Engineer Pass

  

Silverton, Colorado

You can either take Stoney Pass from Creede, Colorado or Engineer Pass from Lake City to The Alpine Loop which takes you directly to this National Historic Landmark and former mining boomtown full of mining history. 

A cute little town with great shops and restaurants.  There are miles and miles of old mining roads winding in and around the mountains with amazing views. 

 An off-roaders dream come true. Nearby Engineer Pass, Poughkeepsie Gulch two Jeep Badge of Honor Trails. Corkscrew Pass and Cinnamon Pass are close by too. 

Old Mine near Silverton, Colorado

Winslow, Arizona

An iconic street corner in a small town based on a song by the Eagles. A must stop is you are near Sedona or Flagstaff. Sedona is known for it's beautiful scenery and Jeep trails. Flagstaff is near the Southern Entrance to the Grand Canyon. 

Jeep Momma Standin' on the Corner in Winslow, AZ

Bar Harbor, Maine

Downtown Bar Harbor is a great spot for local shopping and good food! Acadia National Park is is a great coastal park you must visit. 

Taos, New Mexico

One of the prettiest mountain towns in America with an amazing scenic location in the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. 

Taos has a unique art community and known for its adobe building and historic architecture. There is a world class ski resort nearby along with the most photographed and iconic churches. 

Close by is a must see Rio Grande Gorge Bridge National Monument. The tenth highest bridge in America. I had no idea it was even there the time I drove to Texas from Colorado. You don’t even realize you are on the bridge until it is too late, and you look down and if you are afraid of heights you will scream like I did. 

There is a scenic drive that circles through the Carson National Forest. An 83-mile loop through the mountains, valleys, mesa, and national forestland peppered with small community destinations full of activities and annual events. This drive is centered around Wheeler Peak at 13,159 feet, the highest point in the state. There are several places in the area to take your Jeep Off Road.

Rio Grande River Gorge Bridge

Salem, Massachusetts

Step back in time the many ghost or witch tours, there are plenty to choose from when you visit this unusual ~cursed at one time~ town. I spent two days in Salem in 2016 an learned a lot about the Salem witches. It was extremely interesting to hear about all the curses and stories about the witch trials. 

A must stop is Murphys Bar, said to be haunted by the ghosts in the cemetery right next to the building. I couldn’t find much off roading near Salem but if you are into the water there are many maritime activities. The Misery Islands are nearby, as well. 

More Haunted Places in Salem

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How To Live in the Moment

Prioritizing the Present

Experiences... not stuff, that is what life is all about. I have been on a life changing journey the since 2012. I found my kids didn't need their mom like they used to need me. It was a whole new level of being of mom, which freed up my time and life.

I began to feel what was to come as my children started living their own lives.

Check out my post Empty Nest: Evolution of Motherhood to help navigate your way through a really hard time. 

To live in the moment can be difficult. There is quite a bit of brain re-training that needs to be done which takes time. I didn't really start living in the moment until I did my first cross country adventure. I learned the gift of letting go. I still have a long ways to go, but I am getting there. 

Ben, my son and I at the National Sand Dunes

When I get time to spend with my kids who are now living their own grown up lives, I let go and cherish every moment with them. Time is so precious I know I need to enjoy and savor every moment with them 

Ben & I at Zapata Falls. 

Top 5  Ways to Live in the Moment

Smile

Stop Worrying About Tomorrow

Always Move Forward

Pay Attention to the Small Things

Practice Gratitude

The Art of Letting Go

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to fall into the trap of feeling like everything needs to be done right this minute. Take a step back and reconsider some of those tasks that seem urgent. They most likely can actually wait. In fact, some things on your to-do list may not even be necessary. It's time to embrace the art of letting go.

Embracing the Present Moment

Living in the moment is all about understanding that the past is behind us, and the future is uncertain. The most precious thing we have is the present. It's about living consciously and being aware that every breath is a gift. 

• Be aware of what you are doing and don't let your mind drift about what you need to do next or later.
• Find pleasure in anything, look for the positive. 
• Drive slower and look at the world around you. Don't always be in a rush as it raises your stress level.
• Eat slower and savor the flavors and textures
• Appreciate nature and be grateful.
• Focus on the people you are with because you never know when that will be your last moment with them. 
• Disconnect from technology when possible. The internet and social media can cause your brain to overload. 

The Illusion of a Never-ending To-Do List

We've all been there, with a never-ending "to do" list that seems to mock us. However, it's important to realize that just because something is on that list doesn't mean it has to be done immediately. Dishes can wait, laundry can wait, but there's one thing that can't – quality time with your loved ones.

Top 5 Must Do's When You Go Camping

Camping Regenerates Your Soul

Over time I have learned less is better when you go camping, as long as you are smart about what you pack. Everyone has different needs and wants, so it takes practice to figure out what works and what doesn’t for you. 

One of my campsites with an amazing view. 

Camping Must Haves for me are a pillow, good sleeping bag, tent, camp chair, cast iron pan, and grate to cook on over the fire. Of course, food and water, but that is a given. What I have discovered is there is such a thing as bringing too much stuff. You don't want your adventure to be another chore. The less to set up or clean or pack up means more time relaxing and enjoying the moments. 

Top 5 Must Do's When You Are Camping 

Top 5 "Must Do" Moments when Camping

• Take in the Sunset  Get your camp chair and chill watching the sunset

• Stargaze  Once the sun sets and the fire dies down look up at the sky and take in all those stars. It will blow your mind, out in the middle of nowhere in the dark, all those stars in the sky.

• Campfire Breakfast  When you get up in the morning a breakfast cooked over the fire is a must. Bacon and eggs first thing in the morning out in the middle of nowhere is amazing.

• Make a Campfire Camping is not the same without a campfire. Sit in your camp chair and watch the fire dance. 

• Morning Chill In the morning before your amazing breakfast just lay there in your sleeping bag looking out your tent at the amazing beauty around you. Take it all in… deep breaths.

Camping and nature is so good for your soul. It takes away the stress if you do it right. I also helps you think more clearly. The best way to figure out what works for you to go out and do it. You will make mistakes and forget things. That’s how you learn what works for you. 

Top 5 Group Trail Ride Musts

How to Lead a Successful Trail Ride

When you host a trail ride or are the trail guide others look to you for guidance and leadership. Just because someone has a 4x4 vehicles doesn't necessarily mean they understand how a group trail ride needs to work to be successful and fun.

Group trail ride in the Colorado mountains.

Top 5 Musts For a Successful Group Trail Ride

This is necessary anytime you wheel with new wheelers. Once you wheel with the same folks over and over,  most likely you won’t have to do this every time because everyone will know what to do. But if you ever introduce someone new to your trail ride I suggest you go over these top 5 Must’s when group wheeling. 

• A Trail Guide and Trail Gunner should be assigned. The Trail Guide should know the route and needs to always be the leader. The trail gunner is the last one in the group. Their responsible so no one gets left behind. The folks in the middle have a group responsibility, as well. They must always make sure the Jeep or off road vehicle is behind them in the rear view mirror. 

• Trail meeting. Before you even hit the trail there should be a group meeting. This is a good time to go over some basic off road rules, like stay on the trail, don’t wander off by yourself, let them know the route, talk about how you will communicate on the trail whether with CB’s or horn honking, those kind of things.

• Keep a decent distance between vehicles. Sometimes there is a lot of backing up and space may be needed on obstacles or going up an incline. There could be some wheel spin which means rocks could be flying. 

• If you are going up an incline or down one or going over a serious obstacle let the Jeep in front of you complete it before you begin your accent or decent. 

• There are times on obstacles when after you have completed the obstacle you will need to stop and wait for the other vehicles to complete it. This is a good time to get out for videos and pictures plus, to see how someone else may wheel an obstacle. This is where you need to be very mindful of where you park. You will need to leave a lot of room for all the Jeeps to park after they have gone over the obstacle. Especially if on a hill. I have seen Jeepers not pull up far enough and some Jeepers can’t fully make it up or over the obstacle.  

TOP 5 Must Do with Your New Jeep

Embarking on my Jeep Journey: A New Owner's Perspective

My son and I in my Jeep. 

During the Spring of 2013, I found myself at the threshold of a brand new adventure, becoming the proud owner of a Jeep. Little did I know, this would mark the beginning of an amazing journey filled with countless adventures and a wealth of knowledge that I've gathered along the way. Let me take you on a ride through my experiences as a novice Jeep owner, sharing must do tips for new Jeep owners. 

Check out my YouTube video My Top 5 Must Do's as a New Jeep Owner

First Must Do when you get your Jeep

Get to know what your Jeep is capable of before you start making serious mods to your Jeep. Take your Jeep out for different rides on different terrains. That is if you plan on taking it off road. If you don’t plan on taking it off road, like I did at first, don’t be surprised when one day that bug hits you.

Check out my Off-road Driving Tips to help you out if you are new to off-roading. 

My Jeep overlooking a mountain scene. 

Second - Floor Mats A must! Especially if you have carpet.

Rubberized floor mats are the way to go. The liners with the high perimeter walls to keep all the dirt, mud and rocks contained are a must if you take your Jeep off-road. They are great for those snowy winter months when you track that snowy salty muddy mush into your Jeep

. 

Rugged Ridge floor mats. 

Third- Accessory Color

Pick your your accessory color because soon after you buy your Jeep. You will begin to notice all the other Jeeps and how unique they are. You will want to make your Jeep your own reflection of your personality.

The amount of Jeep accessories you can buy are vast. If they don’t come in the color you pick you can always use spray paint. 

Check out my How to Add Color Step-by-Step Guide

Painting my interior accessories purple. 

Fourth - Decals 

A must do to your Jeep! A hand wave in your accessory color looks awesome. You can also add the name of your Jeep on the side of the hood, that is if you are into naming your Jeep. There is the windshield decal too. 

My purple Jeep Wave decal. 

Fifth - Recovery Points  Even if you don’t go off road. You never know when your Jeep is going to be needed to pull out another vehicle.  If you decide to off-road good solid recovery points are a must. 

Installing my front bumper. 

Obsessive Jeep Disorder

Passion or Obsession

When I first bought my Jeep, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I didn’t realize the addiction I was in store for.

I knew nothing of Jeeps nor this whole new world I was entering. 

I kept hearing… It's a Jeep thing you wouldn't understand. Or Jeep equals Just Empty Every Pocket. Now seven years later I get it. I began to become addicted just a few months after I bought my Jeep. It grabs hold of you quickly. The passion will fill your soul. 

My Jeep Life is my Passion

All us Jeepers get that saying. We say it a lot to our non-Jeep friends and family. We love our Jeeps. Our Jeeps make us happy. Our Jeeps are like a part of the family. For some of us… our Jeep has changed our life.

How do you know if you have Obsessive Jeep Disorder? 

How do you know if Jeep is your obsession? Watch Here ➤➤ Obsessive Jeep Disorder

 Top 10 Signs of Obsessive Jeep Disorder

• You see the UPS Driver more than you see your friends.
• You have a pile of worn Jeep catalogs in the bathroom for serious reading
• You think about your Jeep even when you are not driving it. 
• You park next to any Jeep you see no matter how far you need to walk to your destination. 
• You have more pictures of your Jeep on social media than of your kids or your pet.
• You are constantly opening the door to the garage  or looking out your window to make sure your Jeep is okay.
• You are constantly buying Jeep parts, whether they are serious mods or silly little accessories, just to get your Jeep Parts fix.
• You ask the hostess at a restaurant to seat you at a table by the window, so you can keep an eye on your Jeep.
• You get angry when your Jeep Wave doesn't get returned.
• You sell your kids Legos so you can buy more Jeep Parts.  

To non-Jeep friends, one or more of these signs and you have Obsessives Jeep Disorder. They may think you need to be committed. However, they don’t understand because.. it’s a Jeep Thing, it's a way of life. 

My Jeep Friends who understand

Remember you are not alone… you are part of a big, wonderful Jeep family! This family is there for you. To help encourage you through this amazing time of your life. They will encourage you to keep buying more Jeep Stuff. They will join in on your outrage for not getting that Jeep wave. They may even give you their old Jeep Parts for support. And… they may even encourage you… to buy another Jeep. 

Don’t be ashamed… own that Jeep Life and hold your head high. Walk into that family gathering with confidence knowing you are living the best life out there! Take that Jeep with you everywhere, go to the top of a mountain or through the desert. Don’t let those negative Nellies stop you from your happiness.