9 Secluded Towns in Colorado
Colorado, known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, is home to national monuments and Mesa Verde National Park, among other natural wonders and state treasures. With a remote town for each taste of history and culture, the common denominator is an unspoiled environment. Offering seclusion from civilization, Creede encompasses you within its sheer cliff walls, while Cañon City is protected by elevation and unique geography from harsh weather conditions.
Away from the urban excitement of Denver and Colorado Springs, there's local fun, shopping, and entertainment within the secluded towns. Edwards boasts the modern "Riverwalk" downtown, elevated by the tremendous views, plus easy access to Vail and Aspen. With their unique quirks and tons of charming sights, the following nine towns are perfect for a Colorado getaway.
Almont
Home to around 300, Almont is tiny, like an almond, located at the confluence of the Taylor and East Rivers. North of Gunnison and south of Crested Butte on Highway 135, enjoy easy access to the Gunnison Valley, with most whitewater outfitters plus many guides in town. Boasting a remote feel near Gunnison National Park and national forests, the solitude and beauty are unparalleled. The Taylor River above and the Gunnison River below offer great rafting and kayaking, and the fishing is as good as the rafting. At the same time, Gunnison National Forest provides extensive hiking trails for an outdoor adventure.
Those interested in wildlife viewing find Taylor Canyon spectacular. Herds of Rocky Mountain bighorn come to sheep lick salt along the roads, and bald eagles return every fall to winter near the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery. There are also moose around Taylor Canyon and on Cottonwood Pass. Among the state's best downhill mountain biking trails, Doctor Park is just a few miles up Taylor Canyon from Three Rivers Resort and Almont Resort.
Cañon City
Welcome to the “Climate Capital of Colorado,” with winter temperatures generally 10 degrees warmer than nearby. Secluded in a mountain bowl along the Arkansas River valley and the mouth of the Royal Gorge, Cañon City is a county seat in southern Colorado. At 5,300 feet above sea level, its unique geography is like a protective cocoon against harsh weather. Many come for the Royal Gorge Bridge, rafting in the Arkansas River, and the Pike-San Isabel National Forest. Whether it is an adrenaline-filled day of rafting or an easy hiking trail, there is something for everyone in these spots.
Back in town, the Downtown Cañon City Walking Tour is a great way to scope out the many cafes and restaurants featuring both world and downhome cuisine. How about a handcrafted pie while being entertained by a magician at Pizza Madness? The Downtown Historic District, comprised of 80 buildings, preserves an authentic feel, like "Old Max” (the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility) at First and Main. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, explore this rustic district while shopping along the Main for books and antiques, both ideal for a keepsake from your trip.
Clifton
Considered a suburb of Grand Junction, this town in the heart of the Grand Valley offers proximity to Palisade’s famous vineyards and peach orchards. Clifton is great for wine and fruit lovers who enjoy low crowds while sampling local wines and fresh produce. Take a scenic drive along the outskirts, with seasonal stands selling freshly picked fruit from the nearby farms. Enjoy instant access to some of the best wineries just east without the city traffic, including Carlson Vineyards Winery and the Carboy Winery at Mt. Garfield Estate. Apart from wine, there's plenty to do around town, such as grabbing a meal at Randy's Southside Diner or Triple Tree Tavern, a local bar.
Just south of Clifton, James M. Robb Colorado River State Park is a diverse natural area split into sections ideal for hiking, biking, and swimming. Its winding trail system through treelined riverbanks features spots for fishing and scenic picnics along the Colorado River, like Corn Lake and Connected Lakes Island. Rabbit Valley, the last Colorado exit along I-70, offers some of the best camping in the state, with mountain biking, four-wheeling, and dinosaur bones across the interstate. Furthermore, Grand Mesa is a favorite local getaway—the largest flat-topped mountain in the world, and it is great for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
Creede
Cliff-cradled Creede—even the Coloradans come to gawk at its spectacular layout, whose physical growth is prevented by sheer rock faces. Tucked in a former volcanic caldera in the San Juan Mountains, the small-town feel literally encompasses visitors. You can shop, dine, and stay local at lodgings sporting charming 1890s storefronts in a seclusive feel amid the imposing scenery. From the Creede Historical Museum to the Underground Mining Museum, discover the town's silver-mining history in between entertainment and events. The summertime Creede Repertory Theatre features a mix of classical and new productions, while the annual Taste of Creede on Memorial Day weekend offers artist demos, live music, and a silver chef cooking competition.
There's plenty of snow for wintertime fun, including ice skating and sledding. Explore the area in a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes until the spring snowmelt attracts mountain bikers into town. In the colorful frame of fall, the historic Bachelor Loop is ringed with changing leaves and mining relics. Blast through the scenery on a drive down the Silver Thread scenic and historic byway—and stop at the fascinating formations at Wheeler Geologic Area south of town if you've got a 4X4.
Edwards
Edwards, just off I-70 near Beaver Creek and Vail, offers a cozy mountain-town vibe with an active downtown, "The Riverwalk," alongside the Eagle River. The Riverwalk hosts shops, restaurants, and summer concerts, while Freedom Park’s green spaces, skate park, and trails create a welcoming community hub. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby West and East Lake trails with mountain views and seasonal wildflowers or enjoy Berry Creek and Squaw Creek trails for moderate hikes and creekside meadow scenery.
Sylvan Lake, just outside town, provides camping and access to the White River National Forest, ideal for hiking and fishing. Horseback riding is popular, too, with local stables like Bearcat Stables offering scenic rides. Avon’s Harry Nottingham Park is nearby for trout fishing, while Aspen Vail Ice brings artsy experiences to the area. Known for its year-round recreation and lower lodging costs compared to its ski resort neighbors, Edwards blends small-town charm with mountain adventure.
Loma
Loma, a charming town near Fruita, Colorado, rests along the winding Colorado River with views that capture the high desert's rugged beauty and the majestic mesas of the Rocky Mountains. Loma sits on the edge of the Colorado Plateau, ideal for those craving solitude and natural beauty, offering expansive desert and canyon landscapes. Just minutes north, Highline Lake State Park is a year-round destination with hiking, wildlife spotting, and winter ice fishing, adding to the area's draw.
Home to around 1,300 residents, Loma feels like a peaceful getaway. Kokopelli Trail, just south, is a top spot for mountain biking enthusiasts, with sweeping river views, flowing turns, and technical stretches for thrill-seekers. For an afternoon break, locals and visitors gather at Cattlemen’s Bar & Grill for hearty American fare. Outdoor options abound with the nearby McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, featuring stunning canyons and rock formations, and James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, which offers scenic trails and river access. Whether you’re exploring Salt Creek Overlook or relaxing by the river, Loma combines adventure and tranquility in a truly unique setting.
Marble
Blending art, history, and outdoor adventure amid immense surrounding mountain wilderness, Marble remains on the radar despite its deeply remote location. Renowned for its Yule marble, which has been used in iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the town’s rich heritage is reflected in the Marble Mill Site Park, where visitors can find scattered remnants of its marble quarrying past and stunning geological features.
Marble’s vibrant arts community invites you to explore local galleries showcasing marble-inspired works. Don’t miss the Marble Museum, which highlights the town's fascinating history. The annual Marble Sculpture Symposium attracts art enthusiasts from all over, celebrating the creative spirit of the area. For nature lovers, Beaver Lake State Wildlife Area offers serene picnic spots and scenic trails perfect for short walks amid stunning landscapes. The Raspberry Creek Trailhead provides a rewarding hike that starts steep but soon reveals breathtaking meadows and mountain vistas.
Redstone
Redstone, a Crystal River Valley town, is perfect to escape the city, relax, and reconnect with nature. Few things have changed here over the years, elevating the feel of seclusion from society as if having stepped back into a simpler time. Explore the town against the gorgeous backdrop of majestic mountains such as Mt. Sopris, Capitol Peak, and Huntsman Ridge. Or dive deeper along trailheads on your doorstep, including the East Creek Trail, the East Creek Bouldering area, and the OTS Trail right from Redstone Blvd. Within a 20-minute drive, you’ll find more adventures, including springtime wildflowers on a stroll with a picnic or a horseback ride through the meadow.
Afterward, stick your feet in the icy cold water of the Crystal River, which provides excellent opportunities for fishing. The active enjoy snowshoeing along Coal Creek, and they all reconvene for ice skating and hot cocoa at Ron’s Ice Skating Rink, which has a rental shack. In addition, Redstone Castle, a working hotel and historic landmark, offers guided tours of the formal early 20th-century boutique hotel owned by John Osgood.
Towaoc
Nestled in the far southwestern corner of Colorado, Towaoc offers a unique glimpse into the heritage of the Ute Mountain Indian Reservation, home to the Ute tribe. As the only remaining American Indian tribe in Colorado, the Utes maintain their traditions through intricate beadwork and a growing pottery enterprise. Visitors can find beautiful handmade items at local trading posts and the tribe's pottery outlet, perfect for home decor or thoughtful gifts.
Towaoc is also home to the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel, featuring over 500 slot machines, live blackjack, and bingo, alongside a restaurant serving delicious Southwestern cuisine. The town serves as a gateway to significant archaeological sites, including Mesa Verde, Yucca House National Monument, and the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.
One of the town's highlights is the Ute Tribal Park, recognized by National Geographic Traveler as one of 80 must-visit destinations. Here, guests can explore ancestral Puebloan and Ute rock art and dwellings. The park offers guided tours that delve into the area's rich history, showcasing pictographs, geological formations, and ancient structures. With half- and full-day tour options available, Towaoc provides an enriching experience for anyone interested in Native American history and culture.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Colorado's charming towns offer diverse experiences that cater to both adventure seekers and those in search of serenity. From the breathtaking landscapes of Marble and the vibrant arts scene in Creede to the unique cultural heritage of Towaoc and the inviting atmosphere of Edwards, each town possesses its own character and allure. Whether you’re exploring the remarkable outdoor activities available or immersing yourself in the local culture, these eight towns provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. As you plan your visit, expect to encounter stunning scenery, rich histories, and warm communities that showcase the best of what Colorado has to offer. Embrace the unique spirit of these towns, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this stunning state.
