I Hit the Backroads of Colorado to Try 11 Small-Town Smokehouses (And 6 Were Absolutely Worth the Ride)
Winding through Colorado’s scenic backroads with the windows down and the smell of wood smoke in the air sounds like the perfect adventure, right?
My quest was simple: find the best small-town smokehouses hidden in corners of the state where tourists rarely venture.
After driving hundreds of miles and sampling everything from brisket to pulled pork, I discovered that not every pit is created equal, but the winners were absolutely unforgettable.
1. Smokehouse BBQ (Smokehouse WP) – Winter Park
Nestled at 78637 US-40, Winter Park, CO 80482, this mountain gem greets you with the kind of smoky aroma that makes your stomach growl before you even park.
Winter Park already wins points for its stunning mountain views, but Smokehouse BBQ takes things to another level with their perfectly charred meats. The brisket here has a bark that crunches just right, giving way to tender, juicy meat that practically melts on your tongue.
Their ribs fall off the bone without being mushy—a delicate balance that shows real pit mastery. The sides deserve their own shout-out, especially the smoked mac and cheese that’s creamy, cheesy, and has just enough smoky depth to complement the main event.
What really sets this place apart is the friendly mountain-town vibe. Staff members treat you like a regular even on your first visit, and they’re genuinely passionate about their craft.
The outdoor seating area offers spectacular views when weather permits, making your meal feel like a true Colorado experience. After a morning on the slopes or hiking nearby trails, this smokehouse delivers exactly the hearty, satisfying meal you’re craving.
Smokehouse WP absolutely earned its spot among the winners worth the drive.
2. Georgia Boys BBQ – The Smokehouse (Frederick) – Frederick
Located at 141 E Main St, Frederick, CO 80530, Georgia Boys BBQ brings authentic Southern hospitality to the Colorado prairie.
Walking through their doors feels like stepping into a friend’s backyard cookout, complete with checkered tablecloths and walls decorated with barbecue memorabilia. The pulled pork here is legitimately outstanding—smoky, tender, and seasoned with a rub that hits all the right notes without overwhelming the natural pork flavor.
Their sauce selection lets you customize your experience, ranging from tangy vinegar-based options to sweeter tomato varieties. The cornbread arrives warm and slightly sweet, perfect for soaking up extra sauce or enjoying alongside their flavorful baked beans.
Frederick might not be on everyone’s Colorado bucket list, but Georgia Boys gives you a solid reason to visit this small town. The portions are generous without being wasteful, and the prices won’t make your wallet weep.
Service moves at a comfortable pace—not rushed, but efficient enough that you’re not waiting forever. The casual atmosphere makes it ideal for families, with kids welcome and high chairs readily available.
This smokehouse definitely makes the cut as one of the six worth seeking out on Colorado’s backroads.
3. Sundance Pit BBQ – Palmer Lake
Situated at 865 CO-105, Palmer Lake, CO 80133, Sundance Pit BBQ occupies a sweet spot between Colorado Springs and Denver.
Palmer Lake itself is worth exploring, and this smokehouse gives you the fuel to do it. Their smoked chicken stands out as particularly impressive—juicy throughout with crispy, flavorful skin that shows careful attention to temperature control.
The meat doesn’t dry out like chicken sometimes does at lesser establishments. Their potato salad strikes a nice balance between creamy and tangy, with just enough crunch from celery and onions to keep things interesting.
The coleslaw leans toward the vinegar side rather than mayonnaise-heavy, which I personally appreciate as a refreshing contrast to rich smoked meats. Although not always available daily, their burnt ends appear as an occasional special and deliver caramelized edges with tender centers when offered.
The location offers both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy mountain breezes with your meal during warmer months. Parking can get tight during peak lunch hours, but it’s worth circling the lot a few times.
Sundance Pit BBQ earns its place among the top six with consistently good food and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.
4. Wayne’s Smoke Shack – Superior
You’ll find Wayne’s Smoke Shack at 406 Center Dr #1B, Superior, CO 80027, tucked into a shopping area that you might drive past without noticing.
That would be a mistake, because Wayne’s serves up some seriously good smoked meats in an unassuming setting. Their tri-tip deserves special recognition—a cut you don’t see at every barbecue joint, prepared with a beautiful pink smoke ring and sliced to perfection.
The seasoning lets the beef flavor shine through while adding just enough peppery kick to keep your taste buds engaged. Their jalapeno cheddar sausage brings the heat without being punishing, with real chunks of cheese melted throughout.
Superior isn’t exactly off the beaten path, but Wayne’s still maintains that small-town smokehouse charm despite being in a more developed area. The staff clearly knows their regular customers by name, creating a neighborhood feel that bigger cities often lose.
Portions run on the generous side, so come hungry or plan to take home leftovers. Their combo plates let you sample multiple meats, which I’d recommend for first-timers who want to experience the full range.
Wayne’s Smoke Shack absolutely deserves recognition as one of the six smokehouses worth hunting down on your Colorado barbecue adventure.
5. Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew – Lyons
At 228 Main St, Lyons, CO 80540, Smokin’ Dave’s occupies prime real estate in one of Colorado’s most charming small towns.
Lyons has rebuilt beautifully since the 2013 floods, and this smokehouse contributes to the town’s vibrant food scene. Their baby back ribs showcase textbook technique—tender enough to bite cleanly off the bone but with enough texture to remind you you’re eating real meat, not mush.
The dry rub creates a flavorful crust that doesn’t need sauce, though their house barbecue sauce adds a nice tangy-sweet dimension if you’re into that. Their smoked wings make an excellent starter, with crispy skin and meat that’s been kissed by smoke just long enough to add depth.
The atmosphere leans casual and musical, fitting perfectly with Lyons’ reputation as a music town. Large windows let in plenty of natural light, and the patio seating offers great people-watching along Main Street.
Service stays friendly even during busy weekend rushes when the town fills with outdoor enthusiasts. The menu offers enough variety that vegetarians in your group won’t feel left out, though the smoked meats are obviously the star attraction.
Smokin’ Dave’s earns its spot as one of the six must-visit smokehouses on this Colorado barbecue journey.
6. Smokin’ Yards BBQ – Idaho Springs
Smokin’ Yards BBQ sits at 2736 Colorado Blvd, Idaho Springs, CO 80452, positioned perfectly for travelers heading to or from the mountains.
Idaho Springs already draws crowds for its hot springs and proximity to ski resorts, but this smokehouse gives you another reason to stop.
Smokin’ Yards is widely known for its generous portions and consistently flavorful smoked meats, especially the ribs and pulled pork, which regularly earn high praise for tenderness and balanced smoke.
The brisket can vary depending on when you visit—like many high-volume BBQ spots—but when it’s fresh from the smoker, it offers a solid bark and satisfying moisture.
Sides such as mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans are favorites among regulars, rounding out plates with comforting, familiar flavors.
The location itself is convenient with ample parking, which counts for something when you’re tired from mountain activities. Staff members are pleasant and service moves quickly, getting you fed and back on the road efficiently.
The dining room stays clean and comfortable. Prices run reasonable for a mountain town, where everything typically costs more.
While it didn’t quite land in the top six for this particular road trip, Smokin’ Yards remains a consistently good choice and a reliable stop for travelers craving hearty, well-executed barbecue.
7. Serious Texas Bar-B-Q – Durango (North Main) – Durango
Located at 3535 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, Serious Texas Bar-B-Q promises big flavors with a name like that.
Durango is already a destination town in southwestern Colorado, famous for its train and mountain scenery. This smokehouse attempts to bring authentic Texas-style barbecue to the Four Corners region.
Their sausage and turkey are among the standout items, with flavor and texture that regulars consistently appreciate.
Brisket quality can vary slightly from visit to visit, which is common in busy smokehouses, but it typically carries a pleasant smoke profile.
The ribs offer a decent smoke flavor and tender bite. Sides run classic with beans, coleslaw, and potato salad, providing dependable complements to the meats.
The restaurant maintains a clean, casual atmosphere with Texas memorabilia decorating the walls. Service is friendly and accommodating, with staff happy to assist with menu choices.
Portions are generous, so you’ll definitely leave full. While it didn’t make this trip’s top six, Serious Texas remains a popular and reliable BBQ stop for travelers exploring Durango.
8. Lil’ Smokey’s BBQ – Salida
Way out at 7515 US-50, Salida, CO 81201, Lil’ Smokey’s BBQ operates in one of Colorado’s most underrated mountain towns.
Salida attracts outdoor enthusiasts for rafting, mountain biking, and hot springs, making it a natural stop for hungry adventurers.
Lil’ Smokey’s specializes in Texas-style barbecue using post oak, and their brisket, ribs, and pulled pork generally show a clear smoke ring and rich wood-fired flavor.
Quality can vary slightly with timing, especially at peak hours common to food-truck operations, but their core offerings are genuinely smoked, not steamed or boiled, and prepared with attention to traditional technique.
Sides such as beans and potato salad are made in small batches and pair well with the smoked meats.
The location itself is convenient along Highway 50, and the outdoor seating offers nice views when weather cooperates.
Service is friendly, though waits can stretch when the rush hits.
Prices are reasonable. Lil’ Smokey’s may not have made this trip’s top six, but it remains an appreciated BBQ option and a welcome stop along one of Colorado’s busiest mountain corridors.
9. The Reckless Roadhouse – De Beque
The Reckless Roadhouse holds down 4183 I-70BL, De Beque, CO 81630, in one of Colorado’s most remote small towns along Interstate 70.
De Beque sits in canyon country between Grand Junction and Glenwood Springs, where options are limited and any food can taste good when you’re hungry from driving.
The Roadhouse features a mix of smoked meats and classic grill fare, with items like peach-wood-smoked brisket and ribs that many guests highlight as flavorful and satisfying.
Their smoked offerings are prepared in-house and can vary slightly day-to-day, but ribs and pulled pork frequently earn the strongest praise.
Sides align with hearty roadhouse classics, complementing the smoked meats without overshadowing them.
The atmosphere leans more toward bar-and-grill than traditional smokehouse, with a mix of locals and travelers passing through. Service is consistently friendly and welcoming.
The location is a convenient stop for anyone traveling I-70. While not a destination BBQ joint, The Reckless Roadhouse serves as a solid and enjoyable choice in a stretch of Colorado where good food can be hard to come by.
10. Snooks Bottom Barbecue – Grand Junction
Snooks Bottom Barbecue operates at 225 N 5th St, Grand Junction, CO 81501, right in the heart of Colorado’s country.
Grand Junction serves as western Colorado’s largest city, though it maintains a small-town feel compared to Front Range metros.
Snooks Bottom is generally well-regarded for its brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, which often show balanced smoke flavor and solid tenderness.
Like many busy BBQ shops, the exact texture can vary with timing, but overall consistency trends positive, with the beans frequently mentioned as a standout side.
The downtown location offers convenient access and street parking when you can find it. The interior has character, with exposed brick and barbecue-themed decorations creating a casual vibe.
Service is friendly, though lunch rushes can lengthen wait times. Prices align with other barbecue joints in the area, offering good value for the portions.
It didn’t break into the top six on this particular trip, but Snooks Bottom remains a reliable and well-liked Western Slope BBQ stop.
11. Jimmer’s Steak-BBQ Bar & Grill – Montrose
Jimmer’s Steak-BBQ Bar & Grill sits at 1413 E Main St, Montrose, CO 81401, serving as a gateway to the Black Canyon and southwestern Colorado adventures.
Montrose functions as a regional hub for this part of the state, and Jimmer’s offers a broad menu that spans steaks, burgers, and smoked meats.
Their barbecue items—especially ribs and pulled pork—are known for solid smoke flavor, generous portion sizes, and reliable preparation, making them popular choices among locals.
The brisket typically shows a developed bark and noticeable smoke ring, with flavor that fits well within Colorado’s regional BBQ style.
Sides are straightforward and familiar, pairing well with the smoked meats. The restaurant is large and comfortable, with a bar area that stays lively.
Service is competent and friendly. Prices are moderate and match the generous portions.
While it didn’t make the top six in this road trip ranking, Jimmer’s remains one of Montrose’s favorite spots for hearty, satisfying barbecue.