While the nearby Picket Wire Canyonlands offer a stunning contrast to the expansive plains that stretch south of La Junta, considerably smaller Vogel Canyon provides a more intimate break. Graced by both natural beauty and relics of the past, this small canyon system is a real joy to visit.
It seldom occurs to people that there are fabulous opportunities for hiking and exploring here in southeast Colorado in the secret canyons of the prairie. They dip below the prairie, unseen by most.
Vogel Canyon
Geologically scenic Vogel Canyon is a tributary of the Purgatorie River Drainage.
Four hiking trails take you to the canyon bottom and mesa top, while walking through shortgrass prairie and juniper trees.
Two permanent springs located at the bottom of the canyon, help support a variety of wildlife, which can best be seen early in the morning or just before sunset.
American Indians lived in the canyon 300 - 800 years ago and left rock art which is visible on the canyon walls. This rock art has been dated from around 1200 to 1700AD.
Settled during the depression era, stone walled ruins from the Westbrook homestead still stand.
Hikers and bikers in the Picket Wire and other sites should prepare for quick changes in the weather, and watch out for the grasslands' wildlife, which includes rattlesnakes. Armed with a picnic lunch, canyons make the perfect outdoor day trip for all traveling through
Southeastern Colorado. Be sure to bring at least a gallon of water for each person.
