Whether you’re looking for a quick adventure after class or a longer adventure on the weekends, Paonia is surrounded by BLM land, National Forests, and the West Wilderness. Rent a mountain bike at The Cirque and hit Jumbo Mountain -just minutes from downtown. Head to Lost lakes for a picturesque hike followed by a swim in snowmelt lakes, or Erickson Springs for a perfect end-of-day hike. If you’re really feeling brave and have an extra day, hike up to top of mount Lamborn or down into the Black Canyon.