Experience small-town natural beauty
Step back in time as you drive into the tiny hamlet of Marble — an unpaved, unpretentious mountain town known for its mining history, delicious barbecue, and spectacular fall colors.
Located at the headwaters of the Crystal River in the Elk Mountains, Marble is 40 miles south of Glenwood Springs, just off the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway. Weather permitting, October is a wonderful time to visit this hidden gem.
A SOURCE OF PRIDE
The area is known for its exquisitely pure marble, hence the town’s name. Stone from nearby Yule Marble Quarry was used for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
This photo shows Yule marble blocks at the historic work area in Marble, with the stony peak of Treasure Mountain in the background. The quarry itself is farther up in the mountains. This site, now a city park, is a popular tourist destination.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Marble has no gas station or cellphone reception. Carbondale and Paonia are your last stops for fuel and cell service, so plan accordingly.
EAT AWARD-WINNING BBQ
For ridiculously good food, stop at Slow Groovin BBQ for a mind-blowing meal of locally sourced prime brisket, pulled pork, house-made sides, and more. Enjoy Colorado craft beers and ciders, or a Slow Groovin signature cocktail, in a down-home welcoming atmosphere. Open seven days a week until they close for the season at the end of October, be sure to call 970-963-4090 to confirm doors are open before you make the drive.
Check out their mouth-watering menu at slowgroovinbbq.com.
STAY IN HISTORIC CABINS
Immerse yourself in local history when you stay at Beaver Lake Lodge and Cabins on the east end of town. The main lodge was a school back in the late 1800s, and the five cabins housed quarry workers a century ago. Today, all rooms have been freshly renovated and modernized for comfort without losing their vintage character.
Book your stay at beaverlakelodge.com.
CRYSTAL MILL IS A MUST
No visit to Marble is complete without seeing the iconic Crystal Mill — one of the most photographed historic landmarks in Colorado. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the former powerhouse is a reminder of the region’s fearless mining heritage. The wooden mill is especially picturesque in early to mid-October when surrounding aspens are at their golden peak.
GET TO THE MILL
It’s an 11-mile round trip to Crystal Mill, give or take, on a rugged four-wheel drive road. You can reach the mill by either hiking the steep grade, driving an off-road vehicle at your own risk, or hiring the experienced pros at Crystal River Jeep Tours to take you up. A great compromise is to buy a one-way jeep ride to the mill, then hike back on your own.
For pricing and reservations, call Crystal River Jeep Tours at 970-963-1991.
