9 Old-World Towns to Visit in The Rockies
If you are tired of the same beach towns with their sun-seared skin and crowded piers, it might be time to trade in your flip-flops for hiking boots (or ski poles) and head to the Rocky Mountains. The old-world small towns in this region do not just promise breathtaking mountain views; they also come with a chance to step back into history while breathing in some of the freshest air you will ever have the pleasure of inhaling, and you don't even have to worry about sand getting stuck to your toes.
In these towns, the hiking trails are as plentiful as the laughs you will have when someone in your group inevitably gets winded on a flat section. Of course, they will blame the altitude and not the double cheeseburger they had for lunch—most of these towns hover between 5,000 and 7,000 feet above sea level, and some peaks reach a dizzying 14,000 feet. It does not matter if you are skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer; these nine towns are ideal for those who want their adventures served by a side of history.
Georgetown, Colorado
Visiting Georgetown feels like stepping into a film set from the Gold Rush era, complete with steam engines and Victorian charm. It was founded during the Colorado Gold Rush in 1859, and the town is home to numerous Victorian buildings. Many of these buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring that history is preserved while you stroll through its streets. The 1870 Grace Episcopal Church and the 1874 Alpine Hose Company No. 2 building are two hotspots.
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is where you can find a scenic ride through the mountains, allowing for a step back in time while chugging along on a narrow-gauge train. Each December, the Georgetown Christmas Market draws locals and visitors for four days, split across two weekends, showcasing handmade crafts, food, hot chocolate, and festive cheer. The Georgetown Heritage Center, a red brick historic structure of architectural beauty, gives a deeper dive into the area’s history, filled with artifacts that tell the story of this once-bustling mining hub. Surrounding hiking trails just outside of town, including the Mount Bierstadt trailhead, are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Red Lodge, Montana
In Red Lodge, the spirit of the Old West still roams the streets, and where every summer brings the crack of a rodeo whip. Established in 1884 as a coal mining town, it has long since transformed into a hub for outdoor adventure and local arts. The Carbon County Historical Society and Museum offers a greater understanding of the town's mining past, ensuring that the stories of its earliest residents are not forgotten. The annual Rodeo, running since 1929, is a must-see spectacle, showing off the skill and grit of cowboys and cowgirls. Additionally, Red Lodge is home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, like Beartooth Gallery, featuring works by local artists. There is also the Red Lodge Music Festival, where melodies fill the air, making this old-world town sing with adventure and creativity.
Durango, Colorado
You will find plenty to do in Durango, a town that wears its railroad history with pride and knows how to throw a good cowboy-themed party. Founded in 1880, this vibrant community started as a railroad town, and today, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad remains a popular attraction, taking passengers on a breathtaking journey through the mountains. The annual Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering, held in the fall, celebrates the spirit of the West with performances that will have you laughing and reflecting on life in the rugged outdoors.
Durango’s historic downtown is lined with late 19th-century homes and other buildings, where you can explore shops, galleries, and restaurants like 11th Street Station or Grassburger. It is a great spot to spend an afternoon or evening getting to know what local life is like and immersing oneself in the spirit of the town. Another popular activity for those who find themselves in Durango, just a short drive from town, Mesa Verde National Park offers an unforgettable experience with ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings that showcase human ingenuity. You can even book guided tours in town.
Virginia City, Montana
Virginia City might as well be the Rocky Mountain version of a time machine, whisking you back to the gold rush days of the 1860s when the atmosphere of the Wild West had yet to clear. It was founded in 1863, played a significant role in Montana's early history, and even served as the state capital for ten years. Today, it proudly holds the title of a National Historic Landmark, providing you and your family the opportunity to experience many original buildings that make you feel like you have walked into an old Hollywood film.
Annual events, like the Virginia City Music Festival, keep the spirit of the old days alive with lively performances and hearty revelry. The Virginia City Historical Museum displays gold rush artifacts, one the largest old western artifacts collections being held outside the Smithsonian, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of those who struck it rich, as well as those who did not. For anyone looking to escape into the great outdoors during their trip, the surrounding hills beckon with hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views.
Leadville, Colorado
Leadville stands tall, quite literally, at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, serving as Colorado's highest incorporated city. Established in 1877 during the silver boom, this Victorian mining town is a treasure trove of well-preserved historic buildings that tell stories of grit and ambition. Each summer, the town hosts the Leadville Trail 100, an ultramarathon that challenges even the most seasoned athletes with its grueling hundred-mile out-and-back course through the Rockies.
If you are a history buff, you will appreciate the Leadville Heritage Museum, where tales of miners and their exploits come to life through captivating exhibits with extensive detail. The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum is another spot to check out, supplying artifacts that trace the evolution of mining in the region. When the snow falls, Leadville transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Not to mention, as the stunning San Isabel National Forest surrounds it, it offers hiking trails that are as exhilarating as the town's history.
Bozeman, Montana
When you tire of climbing and long for a stretch of flat land in the Rockies, Bozeman is just what you need. Bozeman has the vibe of a college town that also happens to be steeped in history, full of youthful energy and rich tradition. Founded in 1864, it initially served as a rest stop for gold rush prospectors, and today, it is home to Montana State University, which adds a lively cultural scene.
The Museum of the Rockies is a town favorite, featuring dinosaur fossils and exhibits that delve into Western history, making it a hit for families and curious minds alike. Each summer, the Sweet Pea Festival brings locals together to celebrate arts and crafts, showcasing the town's creative spirit for over forty-seven years. Meanwhile, you will find no shortage of adventures; as true to the fashion of a Rockies town, Bozeman is surrounded by the Bridger Mountain Range, offering numerous hiking and biking trails.
Estes Park, Colorado
It can be said that the beauty of the lakes found high up in mountain ranges is unmatched in the world. Estes Park is like the cherry on top of the Rocky Mountain ice cream treat, serving as a mountain resort town that has been attracting visitors since the late 19th century. This town is your gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, where hiking trails are numerous, offering both strolls and adrenaline-pumping adventures. When in town, book a suite at the Stanley Hotel, the historic structure that famously inspired Stephen King’s "The Shining." Its hauntingly beautiful architecture and chilling stories make it a must-see for fans of the eerie.
Each fall, Estes Park hosts the Elk Fest, a quirky celebration of the local elk population, complete with bugling contests and educational exhibits. For those who prefer retail therapy, the town is home to an array of shops and galleries showcasing both local artisans and major brands. You should also take the time to look through the Estes Park Museum, which highlights the town’s past and the lives of its early residents. Lastly, the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway promises some of the most breathtaking drives, making this mountain haven a spectacular destination for photographers and painters alike.
Cody, Wyoming
Founded in 1896 in part by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody, this town is a Wild West playground that still echoes the excitement of cowboy lore. You will find The Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which will surely be your trip's highlight. It consists of five museums that explore everything from Western art to natural history. Each year, the Cody Nite Rodeo lights up the summer nights, standing as one of the longest-running rodeos in the U.S. It is a fantastic way for you and your loved ones to experience authentic Western culture, and make memories the the children will recall at family holiday dinners for decades to come.
For anyone eager to explore the town's outdoor offerings, the Shoshone National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking and camping, with trails that lead deep into the heart of Wyoming’s wilderness. Nearby Yellowstone National Park adds another layer of adventure to the journey, attracting visitors who crave natural beauty and wildlife encounters.
Park City, Utah
Once a silver mining boomtown, Park City has transformed into a modern-day winter wonderland paradise for thrill-seekers and film buffs alike. Established in the late 19th century, the town has successfully preserved its mining history, as demonstrated at the Park City Historical Society and Museum. Other historic landmarks include the Silver King Coalition Mine and Historic Miners Hospital, each offering a unique insight into the past.
Park City Mountain Resort is practically the crown jewel of the Rockies for winter and extreme sports lovers, allowing them to take on world-class skiing and snowboarding slopes. Summer is not a snooze either; the area grants access to several hiking and mountain biking trails, attracting those who have a passion for the outdoors year-round. Seasonal events, such as the Park City Kimball Arts Festival, bring the local arts scene to the forefront of the town's attention and draw crowds from near and far.
Conclusion
Whether you are stepping into a mining town from the 1800s, following in the footsteps of pioneers and outlaws, or taking in the timeless beauty of snow-capped peaks and sprawling valleys, these towns offer a rare blend of history and outdoor thrills. The best part? You do not have to compete with the crowds, making these destinations perfect for travelers who want a bit of solitude with their scenic views and historical intrigue. From rodeos in Cody to ski slopes in Park City and Victorian charm in Estes Park, the Rockies' old-time towns prove that some things just get better with age—like a fine whiskey or, in this case, a good dose of history mixed with modern-day wonder.
