The 12 Best Small Towns in Colorado

Colorado is a fascinating and truly scenic place to visit on a getaway. Signs of its rich history are found throughout the state, including signs of its Native American history, Wild West heritage, and the gold rush era.

While many of the smaller towns in Colorado are steeped in history, they also beautifully blend modern comforts to give you a wonderful setting for a vacation.

– What to Expect

Colorado is a large state with significant elevation changes because of the Rocky Mountains. To the east of the Rockies, you will find flat and often arid plains. To the west of the Rockies, you will find trailing foothills and thick forests.

The weather conditions in Colorado vary by the season and by your altitude.

At the top of the tallest peaks in Colorado, you may find snow year-round, and all areas of the state may receive snowfall for several months during the winter. Summers, however, can be very warm, which applies in particular to the areas with a lower elevation.

– What to Do

Colorado is a diverse state that offers something for everyone to enjoy.

For example, you can explore the great outdoors at the Rocky Mountain National Park or numerous state parks throughout the area. You can tour museums, visit art galleries, go on a white water adventure, and more.

The mountains are one of the primary reasons visitors flock to Colorado, and snow skiing at numerous resorts throughout the state is popular in the winter. Hiking and other activities can be enjoyed in the mountains during the warmer months of the year.

If you’re itching to visit Colorado now, make sure your car is fully covered first before hitting the road! Enter your ZIP code above and compare at least three to four auto insurance policies today!

The 12 Best Small Towns in Colorado

#1 – Durango

Population: 16,887
Must See: Mesa Verde National Park, Chaco Canyon

Situated in the southwestern corner of the state, Durango is the ideal place to visit when you want to learn more about the state’s history.

From Durango, you will be close to Mesa Verde National Park, which features numerous cliff dwellings and great views. Chimney Rock National Monument and Chaco Canyon are other notable geographic areas to explore while you are in town.

You can also take a ride on the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which offers scenic tours that depart from a restored depot terminal.

#2 — Crested Butte

Population: 1,604
Must See: Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Crested Butte was originally settled in the 1860s by miners, and this settlement displaced the native Ute tribe that lived in the area up until that time.

While mining activities have decreased substantially over the years in Crested Butte, the area is popular for visitors because of its proximity to several ski resorts.

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is also located nearby, and it is a hidden gem that is filled with recreational opportunities and lovely views. Hiking, fishing, cycling, camping, and more are common in this area.

#3 — Breckenridge

Population: 4,540
Must See: Breckinridge Ski Resort, Lake Dillon, Breckinridge Festival of Film

Breckinridge is most well-known for its proximity to the famous Breckinridge Ski Resort. In addition to providing you with a place for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, this resort offers gondola rides, ziplining, and other outdoor activities in the warmer months.

The town of Breckenridge is ideal for window shopping and casual dining, and there are a few notable art galleries in the area as well.

#4 — Ouray

Population: 1,033
Must See: Hot springs pool, Wright Opera House

Ouray was established during the gold and silver rushes in the late 19th century, and it retains its mining town charm. The entire Main Street area and several other venues in Ouray are historic landmarks, including the Beaumont Hotel, the Western Hotel, and others.

With ample outdoor recreation nearby as well as a hot springs pool and live performances at the Wright Opera House throughout the year, Ouray is a place where you may want to spend several days or longer.

#5 — Manitou Springs

Population: 4,992
Must See: Pikes Peak, SunWater Spa, Manitou Brewing Company

Pikes Peak is a noticeable feature on the skyline in Manitou Springs, and you can easily take a drive up a long, winding road to reach the top of the peak.

At the summit, you can dine at a restaurant, buy souvenirs, and enjoy spectacular views.

In Manitou Springs, you can also treat yourself to a relaxing experience at the SunWater Spa or enjoy a few beers with friends at the Manitou Brewing Company.

#6 — Buena Vista

Population: 2,617
Must See: Mount Princeton Hot Springs, rafting on the Arkansas River

Outdoor enthusiasts may love spending time in Buena Vista because of its proximity to the Arkansas River. Seasonally, white water rafting on the river can be exhilarating and gives you a great chance to enjoy the views and see wildlife.

For those who are feeling less adventurous, the Mount Princeton Hot Springs located close to the business district is a great place to relax and unwind. With several shops and restaurants located throughout the area, you will have everything you need in Buena Vista for a quiet getaway.

#7 — Creede

Population: 290
Must See: Underground Mining Museum, Wheeler Geological Area

Creede is one of the smallest Colorado towns featured on this list, and a visit here will take you on a historic adventure back in time. History abounds in this old mining town, and touring the Underground Mining Museum in Creede is a great place to learn more about the area.

You may also visit the Rare Things Gallery or head to the Tommyknocker Tavern for nightly live entertainment. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Rio Grande National Forest and Wheeler Geological Area are both great places for hiking and other recreational activities close to Creede.

#8 — Silverton

Population: 531
Must See: Silverton Mountain, Silverton Historic District, Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Silverton is a historic mining town that offers much for visitors to see and do. You may ride to Durango on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to explore the landscape near Silverton in a unique and fun way.

You can also stroll through the Silverton Historic District, stopping in various shops and restaurants along the way. Silverton Mountain is one of the area’s newer attractions; it’s an extreme ski area that adventure seekers will love.

#9 — Steamboat Springs

Population: 12,088
Must See: Strawberry Park, Yampa River

Steamboat Springs is located in the northwestern region of the state, and it has a fun, modern vibe that mimics the ambiance in Denver. During the summer months in Steamboat Springs, you can visit a farmer’s market or enjoy a free outdoor concert on select days.

The Strawberry Park hot springs is the ideal place to relax year-round, and river rafting on the Yampa is popular for adventure-seekers.

There are also dozens of unique hiking trails, numerous restaurants, and other attractions that will delight you in the Steamboat Springs area.

#10 — Salida

Population: 5,236
Must See: Arkansas River, Captain Zipline

Salida was originally established in 1881 in the heart of the state, and it has grown modestly over the years. Because of its proximity to several tall peaks, Salida is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and camping.

Captain Zipline is a popular attraction that features catwalks, ziplines, and other fun features. While you are in Salida, you may also tour a few art galleries and explore local shops. Free outdoor concerts are featured some evenings during the warmer months.

#11 — Aspen

Population: 6,658
Must See: Ajax and Snowmass ski resorts

Aspen is a popular vacation destination for wealthy and famous individuals, so many visitors flock to this ski town in hopes of seeing a celebrity in person.

In Aspen, you will also find several impressive ski resorts. The most popular ski resort is Ajax, and there are other options to choose from like:

• Snowmass
• Buttermilk
• Highlands

Hiking on West Maroon Pass and near Cathedral Lake are popular options during warmer months. Aspen also has live entertainment, art galleries, and impressive restaurants.

#12 — Palisade

Population: 2.692
Must See: Fruit and Wine Byway, numerous wineries and a brewery

Palisade is a small town located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. While some people visit Palisade to enjoy its delicious restaurants, friendly hospitality, and scenic views, many spend time touring the wineries on the Fruit and Wine Byway.

Altogether, there are 25 wineries in the local area. If you are not a wine drinker, the local brewery may be right up your alley.

Driving in Colorado

You can spend many long days or even weeks driving across Colorado and visiting all of its most popular areas and hidden nooks. There is always a possibility that you may be involved in an accident while driving in Colorado, and you need to ensure that you have the right car insurance coverage before you set off down the road.

As is the case in many states, Colorado law requires that drivers be properly insured at all times.

Reviewing your coverage today and updating it as needed are great steps to take to prepare for a Colorado road trip. The state requires that all drivers have a policy that includes:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $15,000 per accident for damage to property

Remember that you may also need additional coverage, such as collision or comprehensive insurance, to pay for your own expenses if you are in an accident. Shopping online is a great way to quickly and easily gather and compare rates for car insurance in Colorado.

– Safe Driving in Colorado

Even with insurance benefits, a car accident can be a stressful and expensive event. After all, you still have to pay your deductible out-of-pocket as well as any other expenses that were not covered by your policy.

Many drivers will benefit from reviewing a few safety tips before beginning a Colorado road trip. These tips include:

• Drive the speed limit or less than the speed limit at all times
• Look for and obey traffic signs
• Always wear your seatbelt, and verify that everyone in the car is buckled before you drive down the road
• Keep your vehicle well-maintained. It may be wise to schedule a tune-up before a big road trip
• Avoid tailgating. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you at all times

There are also specific tips that apply to drivers cruising through mountains or driving in the winter months, such as:

• Look for wildlife, and always yield when wildlife is on the road
• Be aware of issues that trucks may have going down mountains. Look in your rearview mirror frequently, and move out of the way of trucks that seem to be barreling down on you
• Use the left lane to pass, and stay to the right when you are not passing another vehicle
• Downshift your transmission to a lower gear to prevent riding your brakes
• Be observant of weather conditions, and plan trips when roads are clear and safe to drive on
• Check road conditions and closures before driving across the state
• Drive more cautiously when snow and ice are present. Snow tires can be beneficial in these conditions

Whether you have relaxation, adventure, or a little of both in mind for your next getaway, the many small towns in Colorado are ideal destinations. Plan out your trip today, and update your car insurance coverage so that you are ready for your adventure.

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