A Colorado Sunrise to Remember: Solstice Magic at Chimney Rock
- RiverWalk Inn
- May 8
- 4 min read
Something about a Colorado sunrise just hits different, especially when you’re watching it from the top of Chimney Rock. As the sky shifts from deep blue to gold and the first light touches the ancient stone structures, it feels like more than just morning arriving. It’s quiet, powerful, and deeply moving. For anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Southwest in a way that feels both intimate and awe-inspiring, there’s no better place to start the day.
For those looking for an unforgettable summer adventure, a stay at our Pagosa Springs Hotel paired with a sunrise tour during the summer solstice at Chimney Rock is a perfect way to celebrate nature, history, and the changing seasons all at once.
What Are the Solstice and Equinox?
The summer solstice and autumn equinox have fascinated humanity for centuries. Astronomically speaking, the summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. It usually falls around June 20–21 in the Northern Hemisphere. In contrast, the autumn equinox, around September 22–23, is when day and night are nearly equal in length, signaling the gradual shift into fall.
Across cultures, these celestial milestones have been celebrated with rituals honoring light, change, harvest, and balance. From ancient stone circles to modern-day gatherings, people have long sought out sacred spaces to mark these natural transitions, places where they can feel deeply connected to the cycles of the Earth.
Why Chimney Rock Is a Magical Spot
High above the San Juan Basin, Chimney Rock National Monument offers one of the most breathtaking views you’ll find anywhere. With its twin spires rising dramatically into the sky and panoramic views that stretch for miles, this archaeological and natural treasure has been inspiring visitors for centuries.
The ancient Puebloans who lived here understood the importance of this place, aligning structures to the movements of the sun and moon. Today, its elevation (7,000 feet above sea level) makes it one of the best spots to watch a sunrise in Colorado. The combination of dramatic cliffs, rugged beauty, and wide-open skies creates a front-row seat to nature’s daily masterpiece.
Whether you’re standing quietly at the Great House Pueblo site or looking out over the expansive basin below, there’s an undeniable energy at Chimney Rock. It’s easy to see why this sacred site still draws people seeking awe, inspiration, and a sense of connection to its cultural legacy.
About the Sunrise Tours
If you’re hoping to experience something truly memorable, the Sunrise Tours at Chimney Rock National Monument are a must. Offered only during the summer solstice and autumn equinox, these special guided tours allow you to greet the day the way ancient cultures once did by watching the sun rise over the sacred landscape.
The tours start early, with guests arriving before dawn. A knowledgeable guide leads a hike up to the Great House Pueblo, sharing stories about the site’s significance, its connection to celestial events, and the ancient people who built it. As the first rays of sunlight paint the sky with gold and pink hues, you’ll find yourself immersed in a moment that feels almost outside of time.
Tickets for the Summer Solstice Sunrise Tour are available online, but walk-ins are also welcome if space allows. Just be sure to arrive during the specified check-in window and bring cash if you plan to purchase your ticket on-site.
A few essentials to bring along:
A warm layer (mornings at elevation can be chilly, even in summer)
A water bottle
A camera for capturing the spectacular views
Binoculars, if you want a closer look at the surrounding scenery
The Unique Vibe of Each Season
Summer Solstice Tour
The summer solstice is all about energy and renewal. As the longest day of the year dawns, the crisp mountain air quickly gives way to golden sunlight that spills across the valleys. It’s a moment that feels full of promise, a morning that makes you want to lace up your boots and chase adventure all day long.
Photographers will appreciate the incredible lighting conditions, while hikers and early birds will love the sense of accomplishment that comes from greeting the sun with open arms.
Autumn Equinox Tour
In contrast, the autumn equinox brings a quieter, more reflective energy. With day and night balanced in perfect harmony, there’s a natural sense of pause, a moment to breathe deeply and appreciate the change of seasons.
The landscape starts to transform, with the earliest hints of fall color dotting the forests and fields. It’s a wonderful time for thoughtful exploration, deep conversations, and connecting with the rhythms of nature in a slower, more intentional way.
Make It a Weekend Getaway
Because the tours start so early, we highly recommend making a weekend of it. A restful night’s sleep at our Pagosa Springs Hotel ensures you’ll be ready for that pre-dawn adventure without sacrificing comfort.
After returning from the sunrise tour, enjoy our complimentary breakfast with hot coffee, fresh fruit, and pastries in our sunny dining room. (Trust us, you’ll have earned it!) Maybe even sneak in a nap before heading back out to explore the rest of Pagosa Springs.
If you're looking for a perfect sunrise-to-sunset itinerary, here’s one to inspire your trip:
Wake up early and head to Chimney Rock for the Sunrise Tour
Return to RiverWalk Inn for breakfast and a little downtime in the hot tub
Spend the afternoon visiting the downtown boutiques and cafes
Enjoy an early dinner and then head to one of the best stargazing spots in Pagosa Springs to finish off the day
After a day filled with connection to both the natural world and local culture, you’ll feel refreshed in a way that few trips can replicate.
Closing: Make It a Tradition
Start a new tradition, embrace the beauty of the seasons, and experience the magic of a Colorado sunrise. Whether you visit for the summer solstice, the autumn equinox, or both, watching the sunrise at Chimney Rock National Monument is a ritual worth repeating.
Book your stay at RiverWalk Inn for the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and you’ll understand why so many guests return year after year.
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