Whether you’re looking for pretty hikes, impressive museums, or simply want to gaze at stunning scenery, these small Colorado towns are wonderful to visit.
Colorado is the eighth-largest state in the U.S., boasting over 100,000 square miles to explore. There’s lots to see vertically, as well. Mount Elbert is the state’s highest point at 14,433 feet above sea level. Even the lowest point—the Arikaree River—is still 3,315 feet above sea level.
Seeing every foot of the state is a wonderful goal to set for yourself. However, let’s start with something a bit more manageable. Here are 10 fantastic small towns to visit in Colorado, listed in alphabetical order.
1. Creede
A whopping 96 percent of Mineral County (where Creede is located) is public land, giving you incredible access to the great outdoors. Drive through the gorgeous Bachelor Loop, admire rock formations at the Wheeler Geologic Area, and bask in the peaceful crashing of waterfalls at Silver Thread Scenic & Historic Byway. The Underground Mining Museum and old mining tours are a nice way to step back in time.
Creede has also won a Governor’s Arts Award for its art and galleries, and the Creede Repertory Theatre routinely puts on entertaining live shows. Finally, don’t miss unique town events like the Donkey Dash Pack Burro Race and the ChuteOut Rodeo.
2. Durango
Nestled in the southwest part of the state, Durango really does have something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in some R&R at Durango Hot Springs, while Purgatory Resort is a skiing paradise. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been chugging along the Rockies since 1882, offering scenic views just about everywhere you turn. As a bonus, there are winter and summer excursions via The Polar Express.
Don’t miss out on the accompanying museum, where you can ride from fireman and engineer’s seats and catch memorabilia like a baggage car featured in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (which is now a movie theater). Meanwhile, the Powerhouse lets you experiment to your heart’s content. Once a power plant, this is now one of the most prominent STEAM experiences in the entire state.
3. Estes Park
The gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is essentially a 360-degree picturesque view of mountains and wildlife. The Mustang Mountain Coaster and Estes Park Aerial Tram are both terrific options for taking in the gorgeous scenery. Or take a ride on Trail Ridge Road, where you can spot elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and yellow-bellied marmots. Trail Ridge Road crests at an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level, making it the highest continuous paved road in the entire country.
Fans of “The Shining” will appreciate The Stanley Hotel, which was the inspiration for the Stephen King novel. Additionally, Estes Park might have the most delicious gas station in the entire country: Donut Haus and Fresh Burger Stop are mouth-watering eateries at the Sinclair at 860 Moraine Ave.
4. Golden
Though it’s technically part of the Denver metropolitan area, Golden operates as a home rule city, and that independence makes it a strong addition to this list. Trails abound—Clear Creek is the top attraction—making Golden one of the more dog-friendly places in the state.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave on Lookout Mountain is full of history, and the downtown area is buzzing with gold rush-era vibes. Find yourself craving something sweet during your visit? Grab a Jolly Rancher; the candy was founded in Golden. Then wash it down with a refreshing beverage at the Molson Coors Brewery.
5. Granby
Granby is about 14 miles southwest of Rocky Mountain National Park, which is a must-add to your itinerary if you’re visiting. The town is perfect for adventure seekers; its extensive list of outdoor activities mixes more common activities like hiking and jogging with unique options like horseback riding, summer tubing, ATV and off-roading, and hot-air balloon rides.
During the fall season, with the leaves a magical shade of red, orange, and yellow, it’s hard to beat that view. Those who prefer a more tame adventure can head to the Grand County Library District, which hosts calmer activities, including themed storytimes, virtual reality experiences, and reading to a dog.
6. Idaho Springs
Despite its name, Idaho Springs is, in fact, located in Colorado. It’s a historic mining town—where the Colorado gold rush began—with a charming downtown area running along the appropriately named Miner Street. Or walk down Colorado Boulevard to stroll a neighborhood full of Victorian architecture paired with old miner bungalows.
The Argo Mill and Tunnel is an excellent tour (with a Cable Car opening this year), while “Oh My Gawd” Road is a winding, scenic route that might have you uttering its name in awe. After all that moving around, soaking in water with temperatures topping 100 degrees sounds like a great idea, and Indian Hot Springs is the perfect place to do so.
7. Leadville
Prospectors first set foot in Leadville in 1860, and the town has preserved plenty of that old gold rush feel. The 20-square-mile “Route of the Silver Kings” is an historic mining district, and the Mineral Belt Trail welcomes walkers and cyclists who appreciate magical scenery. If you’d rather sit back and relax, you’ll love looking out the windows of the Leadville Railroad.
And despite the town’s small size, its museum game is top-notch. Use the Leadville Passport when visiting museums such as the Tabor Opera House, Matchless Mine, and Heritage Museum. Collect enough stamps, and you’ll score a town-themed souvenir.
8. Ouray
Welcome to the “Outdoor Recreation Capitol of Colorado,” which is a bold claim in a state full of outdoor activities. Yet Ouray makes a compelling case. The high alpine community sits at 7,800 feet in elevation and gives you ample exposure to the town’s three W’s: wildlife, wildflowers, and waterfalls. Go on a hike or horseback ride through the mountains, or indulge in the Last Dollar Road drive for some phenomenal fall foliage.
In colder months, learn to ice climb at Ouray Ice Park and gaze at the slow canyon waterfall at Box Cañon Falls Park & Nature Center before soaking in Ouray Hot Springs Pool. Head downtown to do a little shopping, as there are dozens of spots to pick up hand-blown glass, custom ceramic, and ironwork souvenirs.
9. Salida
Salida is only 2.77 square miles, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in nature. The town is bounded by the Sawatch and Mosquito Ranges to the west and east, respectively, with Methodist Mountain lending a picturesque portrait to the south. The Arkansas River, a major part of Browns Canyon National Monument, flows right through the town.
Should you ever tire of the views in the “Heart of the Rockies,” the town hosts several arts, culture, and creative events throughout the year. The Salida Creative District First Fridays highlights rotating host businesses and includes a stampable “Palette Card” to show your support. The Chalk Fest lets you get your hands dirty, while the Salida Jazz Festival is a soulfully good time. And the Salida ArtWalk, hosted every fall, is an abundance of creativity and stunning artwork.
10. Woodland Park
Ready to howl? Woodland Park is home to the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. If you prefer something a little more ancient, mosey on over to the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center and the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument to see prehistoric dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and petrified redwoods.
On the second Wednesday of each month, tap your toes to a free concert at the Ute Pass Cultural Center. Don’t forget your hiking shoes, either. You’re just about ten minutes away from over 5,000 acres of nature at Mueller State Park.
