7 Quintessential Colorado Towns
There is nothing quite like the wild and untamed feel of a state like Colorado. From the high peaks of the formidable Rocky Mountains to the striking valleys and plateaus, nature abounds. While major cities like Denver or Boulder might have a bigger population and a higher quantity of amenities, they do not capture the essence of the Centennial State. From long-standing mining towns like Durango to lavish ski destinations like Telluride and Aspen, the state has much to offer the willing explorer looking to find out what Colorado is all about for themselves.
Telluride
Those lucky enough to find themselves in Telluride need only look around to see the wonders of Colorado's landscape. Towering peaks surround the town, and the community is rife with history and begging to be explored. As an old 19th-century mining town, Telluride has a rustic appeal, with Victorian-style architecture lining the streets. Today, these houses the famous eateries and shops visitors love, like The Butcher & Baker, which combines hearty breakfasts with freshly baked pastries to get any morning started right.
If you want to challenge yourself on your holiday, you should set out along the Via Ferrata, a famous climbing route along the cliffs that sit high above the community. Those arriving in the winter should book their accommodations at the Telluride Ski Resort to make the most of the area’s best snowboarding, skiing, and amenities. Coming in the summer months? In June, fans of Americana music can enjoy the famed Telluride Bluegrass Festival for live entertainment, crafts, food, and festivities.
Aspen
Beyond the state's major cities, Aspen is one of the most recognized areas in Colorado for its connection with celebrities, high-end amenities, and renowned skiing. Located in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, several resorts offer nearly infinite trails and slopes for winter recreation. Among the most famous destinations to strap on a set of skis in the region are Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk.
While there is much to experience in the winter, the summer has a lot of exciting exploration and adventure to find as well, including the iconic Maroon Bells. These twin peaks overlook a tranquil lake, and when you align yourself to see the reflection, you are looking at what could easily be a postcard setting. Once you finish with the nature hike or that slalom on your skis, appreciate the wealth of fine dining in Aspen at spots like Matsuhisa Aspen.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte has long been known as one of the ‘last great ski towns in Colorado,’ despite the fame of places like Aspen. Part of its notoriety lies in the availability of challenging slopes and amazing natural wonders without the commercialization you might find in other resort towns.
From the moment you walk down historic Elk Avenue, you can tell that there is much in the way of retail and dining to explore when you are not out appreciating the abundance of potential recreation and adventure. One of the local favorites is The Secret Stash for inventive pizzas and the old Kochevar’s Saloon, which still maintains the Old West vibes of bygone eras. Your choice of accommodation might lead you to the popular Crested Butte Mountain Resort, which offers a huge selection of recreation in all seasons of the year but particularly comes alive for winter sports and summer blooms of wildflowers along the hillsides.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs embodies the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, situated at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers. It is best known for the Hot Springs Pool, the world’s largest mineral spring pool. Begging to be explored above and below, the abundance of nature makes Glenwood Springs quintessentially Colorado. The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers adrenaline-driven rides and cave tours under the lush surface. Just around the corner, the Hanging Lake Trail is an intense yet popular hike up through a crystal-clear lake high above the mountains.
Glenwood Springs has a vibrant food scene. Riviera Supper Club and Scratch Kitchen is renowned for good food and lively music. This eatery is a highly recommended stop that guarantees an upbeat yet cozy dinner experience.
Buena Vista
Tucked into the shadow of the Collegiate Peaks, Buena Vista is a small town that offers the allure of big adventure. Dubbed the gateway to the Arkansas River, the city is a central destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing. If water recreation is not your adventure, much exploration must be done at the nearby Cottonwood Pass or on one of the region’s multiple fourteen-thousand-foot peaks. Quintessential Colorado means abundant nature and relaxing environments, like Mount Princeton Hot Springs, which is located just outside of town.
When you want to experience offerings that do not require a hike or a paddle, you can appreciate the charm of the historic downtown area loaded with shops, boutiques, and dining possibilities. Among the most popular is the Eddyline Restaurant for its classic combination of craft beers and wood-fired pizza.
Durango
Durango has existed since 1880. It was first established as a mining town and then quickly became a hub for the railroad, transporting people and mined materials in and out of the community. That Wild West charm still shines today in attractions like the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, where riders can take a memorable trip through the San Juan Mountains surrounding this historic community.
But if you are passing through Colorado to explore its natural wonders, you do not have to look hard to find the gateway for the San Juan National Forest, offering abundant hiking and biking potential. History buffs in your group might appreciate the community's landmarks, like the Strater Hotel (1887) or the recreated El Moro Spirits & Tavern (formerly the El Moro Saloon), once the site of a famous shootout in 1906. The tavern also doubles as one of the community’s favorite dining spots.
Salida
Salida is one of the towns that people recognize for different reasons. One group might suggest this is a sight for outdoor biking, hiking, and skiing at Monarch Mountain or the Arkansas River. Another group might suggest that Salida is most known for its vibrant and growing arts scene, with a creative district loaded with art galleries, studios, shops, and boutiques - such as the popular Drift & Amble. You might also enjoy exploring Salida through your taste buds, beginning with the fan favorite Amica’s Pizza Microbrew & More, a stop famous for wood-fired pizza and craft beers.
If you are into whitewater rafting, you should come for the FIBArk, the oldest festival celebrating this style of rafting in the country. Be a part of the tradition with boat races, family-friendly events, food, and live music.
Colorado's small towns offer something different from the bustle of major cities and travel hubs like Colorado Springs and Denver: a slice of culture, history, and natural beauty. From Glenwood Springs and its hot springs to Salida's artsy appeal, each represents the sense of adventure and friendliness of the Centennial State. Whether you soak in Telluride's history or take on trails around Buena Vista, Colorado's small towns have unforgettable moments in store. If you want to discover quintessentially Colorado sites, start with some of its storied small towns.
