8 Coolest Small Towns in Colorado for a Summer Vacation
Colorado is a beautiful state full of breathtaking views, scenic vistas, and towns rich with adventure and culture. From amazing wineries and breweries to epic hiking, biking, and skiing conditions, the possibilities are nearly endless in Colorado. The towns and mountain villages that run along the Rocky Mountains make great destinations for vacations and getaways. Enjoy a day of adventure and activity, or relax at a world-class spa in a natural hot spring bath. Colordo’s small towns are perfect for summer vacations full of fun and excitement for families, couples, or friends looking for somewhere spectacular.
Salida
The mountain town of Salida, Colorado, is a lesser-known town that has a lot to offer. Named "Best Unsung Mountain Town" by Outside Magazine in 2017, Salida is a perfect place for a vacation. The town is often fondly referred to as the Heart of the Rockies and is popular with adventure seekers and outdoor lovers. The area is full of mountains, trails, bike paths, and the beautiful Arkansas River, so visitors can enjoy a full range of summer outdoor recreation activities. For those who prefer a relaxing vacation over an adventure-packed holiday, Salida has the largest indoor hot springs facility in the country. The beautiful Salida Hot Springs Pool is a great place to unwind. The town itself also has a lot to offer for those looking for a unique getaway. The downtown area has Colorado’s largest National Historic District, which includes over 100 different historical and protected buildings dating back to the times of the Wild West. Walk the creative district for art shops and galleries, enjoy excellent dining options, or take in a show at one of the live theater venues.
Paonia
The town of Paonia is a lovely agricultural-rich area of Colorado that is an excellent spot for a summer vacation. This peaceful town is rich with apricots, peaches, pears, apples, and cherries. Not only is the fruit itself delicious, but cider is also very popular in the region, and Paonia hosts a well-known cider festival yearly. Aside from the food and drink, the region has a robust creative district, including artistic shops, galleries, and studios. Attractions include the Blue Sage Center For the Arts and Paradise Theater. This scenic town offers gorgeous mountain views, stunning landscapes, and a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is one of the more popular small towns for a vacation getaway. This Rocky Mountain town is absolutely beautiful and has a number of vistas and postcard-like views. Skiing is a big draw to the area, as are the many trails and outdoor recreation opportunities. Head to Crested Butte Ski Resort for their summer line-up, featuring 3-D archery, scenic lift rides, and disc golf. With majestic mountains to small-town charm, Crested Butte has it all. Visitors can enjoy local shops, eateries, restaurants, spas, and resorts, as well as a bustling downtown region. From outdoor adventure to a relaxing escape, this is the perfect place to holiday.
Manitou Springs
Manitous Springs is a vacationer’s dream. It is full of wonderful places to enjoy the Colorado landscape, from the beautiful mountains to natural springs. The town sits at the bottom of Pikes Peak, and the scenic view is the backdrop to many open-air restaurants and cafes. Travelers love to come and enjoy hiking and outdoor recreational opportunities, but the region is equally popular for relaxing getaways full of pampering and healing in Manitou’s gorgeous waters. Either way, this small mountain town is a great place to spend a summer holiday full of natural beauty, good food and drink, and lots of small-town charm.
Snowmass Village
Snowmass Village is a stunning part of Colorado and is full of beautiful views, amazing scenery, and a variety of things to do. It is particularly popular for outdoor recreation, specifically biking, and hiking. Snowmass and the Roaring Fork Valley were awarded the IMBA Gold Level for the impressive mountain biking trails in the area, and there is no better time to explore than on a summer vacation. Snowmass also has a number of festivals and events to attend. Plan a vacation around the breathtaking hot air balloon festival, or take in a rodeo or open-air free concert.
Silverton
The tiny town of Silverton has a population of only 650, but this hidden gem has big views and makes a great off-the-beaten-path option for a vacation. The area itself is a National Historic Landmark and is part of the larger San Juan Skyway. The beautiful little town has majestic mountain views and is close to the Weminuche Wilderness, which offers plenty of chances to explore the natural landscape. Enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, train rides, exploring, and even paragliding in the summer. It is the perfect season to make the most of the great outdoors, no matter what you love to do. Local festivals and events also add charm to the area, including craft fairs, winter carnivals, and brass band festivals.
Estes Park
Estes Park is in the northern part of Colorado and is nestled into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, including the Rocky Mountain National Park. The area is well known for its abundant wildlife, including bears and elk. Hiking is a popular activity, and there are miles and miles of trails running in and around the town. The Trail Ridge Road, found in the Rocky Mountain National Park and has impressive views of mountain peaks, forest, and wilderness. Mountain lodges, such as Castle Mountain Lodge and McGregor Mountain Lodge, offer the perfect place to escape while taking in the fresh air and natural landscape.
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs has everything you could want in a vacation destination. Enjoy a variety of activities and adventures, such as white water rafting, fishing, or hiking. The natural hot springs in the area are the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day on the town, shopping, eating, and taking in the vibrant arts and cultural scene. Hot air balloon rides in the summer months offer a unique take on the area, while the nearby Chimney Rock National Monument is a great place to soak up some history. From outdoor adventure to excellent dining, breweries, and cafes, Pagosa Springs offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent vacation destination in Colorado.
Colorado is a beautiful state full of majestic mountains, gorgeous vistas, wild wilderness, and so many great things to do. Though it boasts stellar winter destinations, summer in a small Colorado town is something special. From abundant hiking opportunities to gorgeous wildflowers, award-winning bike trails, and magical hot air balloon rides, the small towns of Colorado are excellent destinations for a summer vacation, no matter how you want to spend your holiday.
