8 Towns in The Rockies With Rich History

The Rocky Mountains formed some 75 million years ago and include at least 100 separate ranges, which are divided into four groupings: the Canadian Rockies, the Middle Rockies, the Southern Rockies, and the Colorado Plateau.

From Canada to Montana, Wyoming to Utah, Colorado to New Mexico, and Arizona, the vast 3,500-mile range is ancient and full of both rich history and natural wonders.

The Rockies are culturally important having been essential to pre-Columbian American cultures, like the Blackhawk and Crow. In the early 1800s, European settlers began exploring these mountains, with Lewis and Clark being the most notable explorers to traverse the expansive terrain. This vibrant history has been preserved by the local communities who call these mountains their home. These towns in the Rockies offer some of the richest history in the region.

Georgetown, Colorado

Georgetown, Colorado, is a reminder of the state's rich mining history. Established during the Colorado Silver Boom in 1859, this charming town has retained its Victorian-era charm and serves as a living museum of the past.

The Georgetown-Silver Plume Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, is an open-air museum showcasing well-preserved structures from the 19th century. Along the historic main street, visitors will find colorful standout buildings. One cannot miss the Hotel de Paris Museum, a meticulously restored 19th-century hotel that provides a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and miners.

For those seeking a scenic adventure, the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a narrow-gauge heritage railway, winds through the breathtaking Clear Creek Canyon, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Telluride, Colorado

Telluride, Colorado, was initially established in the 1870s as a mining town and is known today for its vibrant cultural and arts scene. The town is a perfect mix of its Wild West past and current sophisticated arts community.

The historic district of Telluride has a treasure trove of Victorian-era architecture, including the Sheridan Opera House, which has hosted luminaries like Oscar Wilde and Sarah Bernhardt. The town is also home to the annual Telluride Film Festival. Telluride's Main Street is lined with boutique shops and gourmet restaurants and is a great place to walk to experience the town's timeless charm.

A visit to Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall, is an excellent addition to your travels. 

Jackson, Wyoming

Sitting in the shadow of the majestic Teton Range, Jackson, Wyoming, is a town full of Old West history. Established as a fur trading post in the early 19th century, Jackson's Town Square is a hub of activity surrounded by preserved buildings from the town's early days.

A unique feature of the town square is a series of antler arches made from shed elk antlers found at each corner. Also, in town, visitors can experience a journey through the region's past at the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum.

Beyond its historical charm, Jackson serves as a gateway to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, Colorado, is well known for its luxurious accommodations and unparalleled skiing. While its glamorous façade certainly is natural, below the surface, travelers will find a rich history and unparalleled natural beauty.

Initially a silver mining town, Aspen experienced a revival in the mid-20th century when it transformed into a world-class ski resort. The Wheeler Opera House, an architectural gem dating back to 1889, is a reminder of Aspen's mining boom era and is still a cultural hub today.

While Aspen Mountain beckons skiers and snowboarders in winter, the Maroon Bells, two towering peaks mirrored in a crystalline lake, offer a breathtaking spectacle year-round. 

Taos, New Mexico

Situated at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos, New Mexico, is a town steeped in Native American and Spanish colonial history. The Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States, is an awe-inspiring testament to the Puebloan culture.

The narrow, winding streets of Taos Plaza are lined with adobe buildings, reflecting the town's Spanish colonial heritage.

A visit to the Kit Carson Home and Museum offers insight into the region's tumultuous history during the Mexican-American War. With its vibrant arts community and proximity to the Rio Grande Gorge, Taos is a town unlike any other in America.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Originally founded as a coal mining town in the late 19th century, Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem among mountain towns. While today, it is regarded as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the town has retained much of its authentic character.

The historic district is full of picture-worthy, colorful Victorian-era buildings. Crested Butte Mountain Resort is renowned for its world-class skiing and draws visitors in winter, while the wildflower-covered meadows surrounding the town make it a summer paradise.

With a rich history and a commitment to preserving its natural beauty, Crested Butte stands as a town where the past and present harmoniously coexist.

Ouray, Colorado

Switzerland or America? Ouray, Colorado, is known for its stunning alpine scenery rivaled only by the Swiss Alps. Once a mining camp in the 19th century, Ouray has maintained some of its historic charm via its Victorian architecture.

The Ouray County Museum provides a thorough look at the region's mining history, while the historic Ouray Hot Springs Pool, dating back to the late 19th century, offers relaxation amid breathtaking mountain views. The Million Dollar Highway, a scenic byway that connects Ouray to Silverton, is an engineering marvel that traverses high mountain passes, providing unforgettable views of the rugged San Juan Mountains. 

Golden, Colorado

Golden, Colorado, is a town with a rich history shaped by the Gold Rush of 1859. Home to the Colorado School of Mines, Golden has been a center for scientific and technological innovation.

The Clear Creek History Park features preserved 19th-century buildings. The Coors Brewery, a prominent landmark since 1873, not only offers a tour of the brewing process but also serves as a living piece of Golden's industrial history.

With its proximity to Lookout Mountain and the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Golden perfectly melds historical charm with natural wonders.

Discover the History of the Rockies

From state to state, the sprawl of the Rockies is magical. These towns are full of history, from their industrial mining legacies to iconic breweries. 

Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or visit perfectly preserved historic districts, these towns have something to offer you. So what are you waiting for? Explore the Rockies.