Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful places on earth, a few of which are so jaw-dropping and unique that they appear to be – dare we say – out of this world! While there are a handful of places in Colorado that look like something from another planet, the spot that stands out to us the most are the Paint Mines Archeological District:

Tucked away near the small Eastern Plains town of Calhan, the Paint Mines Archeological District spans an impressive 750 acres and houses one of the most unique wonders in the state. 
DarlArthurS/Wikimedia Commons
What makes the District so special? Located inside of the park is the easy-to-recognize Badlands, which are downright eye-popping thanks to their various pastel colors. 
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According to legend, the area was inhabited some 9,000+ years ago by early Native Americans who painted the spires with pigments from colorful clay.
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Since the area is incredibly rare and delicate, the Paint Mines are designated by the National Park Service, maintained by the El Paso County Parks Department, and listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Colorado State Register of Historic Properties, and U.S. historic district.
TripAdvisor/Dustin S

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Trust us, folks: These photos do not do this place any justice! 
TripAdvisor/Dustin S
In addition to marveling over these historical wonders, visitors of the Paint Mines can also hike around the area, thanks to its 4+ miles of breathtaking trails. 
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Is this photo giving anyone else a bit of a Star Wars vibe? 
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The Paint Mines Archeological District is open year-round and is free to the public.
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To learn more, please visit El Paso County's website.

Have you had a chance to visit this out-of-this-world attraction? Tell us all about it in the comments! For other places in Colorado that look to be from another planet, click on 10 Places In Colorado That’ll Make You Swear You’re On Another Planet.

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Featured Addresses
Paint Mines Interpretive Park, 29950 Paint Mine Rd, Calhan, CO 80808, USA