As the air turns crisp and Colorado’s Aspen-covered slopes turn gold, consider a road trip to the towns of Cortez, Dolores and Mancos — located near Mesa Verde National Park. At Willowtail Springs Bed & Breakfast in Mancos, a private lake offers luxury experiences including boating and bird watching.

Cozy accommodations can be found in The Bungalow, The Garden Cottage and The Lake House — offering privacy, comfort and beautiful views of lakes and the La Plata Mountains. Willowtail offers artists residencies and retreats in inspiring spaces such as the Treehouse Gallery and Working Studio; plus, tai chi sessions help release blocked energy and set loose stagnant creativity.

Other lodging choices include Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch in Cortez, where the historic ranch once belonged to famed cowboy Elden Zwicker. Legends still whisper that outlaw Butch Cassidy secreted his stash within the ranch’s McElmo Canyon setting. Activities include wine tastings and a vineyard tour at nearby Sutcliffe Vineyards, along with horseback riding, skiing, biking, hiking or soaking in nearby hot springs. Guests ride a historic steam engine train on the Durango-Silverton Railroad, or explore the area’s rich heritage of ancient ruins.

Close to the ranch, choices include Canyon de Chelly, Valley of the Gods, Monument Valley, Hovenweep National Monument and the Anasazi Heritage Center.