The Most Underrated Towns In Colorado
The Centennial State is definitely one of the best places in the US to end the year on a high note, whether dog-sledding in Pagosa Springs, snowmobiling in Grand Lake, or exploring Paonia's shops and galleries. Just like its stunning 14,000-foot peaks, there are countless hot springs to enjoy, offering an alpine experience in rustic, natural, luxurious settings across several underrated towns.
Beyond popular destinations like Vail, Aspen, or Telluride, you'll avoid crowds and higher prices to find even more stunning spots, such as Frisco or Grand Lake, a small town with the state's largest natural reservoir. The true luxury lies in the natural beauty and peaceful vistas offered by these hidden gems, perfect for those willing to venture off the usual path.
Buena Vista
Buena Vista was renamed in 1879 by local residents, highlighting its main feature: 'beautiful view' in Spanish. Located just 90 miles west of Colorado Springs along the Arkansas River, visitors can enjoy various activities to experience the buena vista, from outdoor guides and outfitters to hot spring experiences in settings that range from rustic and natural to luxurious, suitable for the whole family. A creek winds through Columbine Park, which is filled with trees, and features play equipment and picnic tables near the historic train depot.
Many seek hot springs to relax after a rugged adventure, whether it's conquering the Sawatch Range, which boasts more 14ers than any other state's range, off-roading thrills, or Buena Vista Whitewater Park's five main whitewater structures for kayaking and rafting, plus climbing walls and trails. If you start on a high, why not end "big" (screen) at the Comanche Drive-In Theatre against a mountainous backdrop? Finally, drive through four tunnels to rest your head at the Turtle Rock campsite.
Cripple Creek
Just an hour up the pass from Colorado Springs, Cripple Creek embraces its rustic charm and Wild West theme. Visitors of all ages enjoy the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, which travels from the historic 1894 depot through old gold camps. The town has invested in arts and modern casinos, providing a contrast to abandoned mines and other historic sites for relic hunters. This scenic route continues north to the famous Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.
Many also enjoy meeting Rita the Rock Panther down the highway, a sizable art project after a short trail for a selfie against mountain views. Marked for its Victorian-era buildings and free-roaming donkeys, the beautifully restored Butte Theater plays regular musicals, melodramas, and comedies, while weekend-long donkey races take place in June. Plan to visit for the wonderland of glittering sculptures, castles made of icicles, and crystalline caverns, typically in mid-February.
Frisco
This gem graces the west shore of Dillon Reservoir, providing endless views of the majestic Tenmile Range. Sightseeing starts from the doorstep of Frisco Lodge, a welcoming spot since 1885, or Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe. Just north, Lily Pad Lake offers a scenic hike that begins with a brief climb into wooded areas, passing vibrant wildflowers and rocks along the shaded trail, suitable for nearly all ages.
Utilize local bike rentals for the greenway contouring one of Colorado's most picturesque alpine lakes, take a paddling tour, or rent a kayak from the marina to explore the frigid sparkling waters fed by melting snowpack around nooks and islands. No matter how or where you start the day, end it on a fresh-hopped note. Outer Range Brewing Company in Frisco, Colorado pours standout hazy IPAs and Belgian-inspired ales in a modern alpine taproom with stunning Rocky Mountain views.
Grand Lake
Tucked along the northern edge of Grand Lake, this peaceful mountain town sits at the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, surrounded by waterfalls, valleys, and rugged peaks. It's an ideal romantic retreat or quiet family escape, with cozy lakeside cabins overlooking Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake, which connects seamlessly to Shadow Mountain Lake. Along with a charming town beach and scenic marina, Point Park offers serene viewpoints where you can soak in the water-to-mountain panorama.
Outdoor adventures abound here. Beacon Landing Marina provides guided fishing trips, pontoon rentals, and canoe outings, while winter brings popular snowmobiling tours through snowy backcountry terrain. Hikers can head to the East Inlet Trailhead on the edge of town — a route known for waterfalls, rivers, and wildflower-filled meadows. It’s an easy 20-minute walk to Adams Falls, and just beyond, a peaceful meadow opens to wide-angle alpine scenery. Before exploring, stop by one of the town’s visitor centers for maps, tips, and a glimpse into local history.
Idaho Springs
This Victorian community on Clear Creek is often grouped with Colorado’s history-rich towns, but it’s far more than a time capsule. Established after prospectors made Colorado’s first major gold strike here in 1859, Idaho Springs carries its mining legacy into the present with lively craft breweries, local shops, and the restorative Indian Hot Springs. The town’s name reflects early references to nearby hot springs, while the word “Idaho” was popularized in the mid-1800s—once thought to mean “Gem of the Mountains” in a Native language, though its precise origin remains unclear.
Idaho Springs balances old-West heritage with modern mountain-town charm, offering art galleries, boutiques, and a range of cozy lodgings. Historic miner homes still line the streets, and the impressive ARGO Mill and Tunnel stands as a testament to the region’s gold-rush engineering. The 4.16-mile tunnel once provided critical mine drainage and ore transport from surrounding mountain workings, with processed gold ultimately shipped by rail to Denver for smelting and minting. For a scenic adventure, drive the Mount Blue Sky Scenic & Historic Byway, then stop by local galleries like the Majestic to round out your visit.
Pagosa Springs
Nothing ushers in winter quite like a soak in natural hot springs or a dog-sledding adventure — both of which await at the foot of the San Juan Mountains in Pagosa Springs. Named for its steaming, mineral-rich waters (from a Native Ute word often translated as “healing waters”), this relaxed mountain town near the Continental Divide welcomes visitors with sunny skies and snow-dusted peaks. Home to the world's deepest known geothermal hot spring, Pagosa Springs offers countless ways to unwind, sip a local brew, and take in the serenity of the San Juans.
Warm up this winter at Healing Waters Resort & Spa, where you’ll find a large outdoor pool and a classic bathhouse experience at wallet-friendly rates. In downtown, The Overlook Hot Springs pairs rooftop soaking tubs with festive views, cozy atmosphere, and nearby eateries including Riff Raff Brewing Company, known for creative craft beers like its Skallywag English-Style Ale. Families and winter-sports lovers can also book dog-sledding experiences with well-reviewed local outfitters, where friendly huskies lead snowy adventures followed by warm treats and photo-worthy moments.
Paonia
Paonia is an agricultural haven and a Certified Colorado Creative District filled with galleries, studios, shops, and seasonal events. Stretch your legs at Paonia River Park, where a short interpretive trail features river overlooks, local art installations, native plant landscaping, and a striking pedestrian bridge made with repurposed steel. The park overlooks the North Fork of the Gunnison River, a major lifeline for the area's orchards, vineyards, and small farms. Along with U-pick orchards, bakeries, and farm stands, nearby Orchard Valley Farms offers peaches, cherries, berries, and seasonal produce in a scenic riverside setting.
Just up the road, Paonia State Park attracts photographers and nature lovers with wildflower meadows, aspen groves, and mountain views, while boaters and anglers visit its chilly mountain reservoir. Summer is a lively time in town, with farm dinners, live music, and community celebrations that highlight local fruit harvests—particularly July cherry season. After exploring, unwind at a cozy inn, B&B, or campground. Don’t miss Western Culture Farmstead & Creamery, where you can sample artisanal cheeses made from the resident goats right on-site.
Twin Lakes
Just 15 miles south of Leadville, Twin Lakes feels like Colorado’s most peaceful alpine hamlet, tucked beside two shimmering glacier-carved lakes at the base of Mount Elbert. Sitting near the headwaters of the Arkansas River, this quiet valley offers postcard views, easy access to the Continental Divide Trail, and a jumping-off point for summiting Colorado’s highest peak. With fewer crowds than other mountain hubs, visitors come for lakeside camping, quiet coves for paddleboarding and kayaking, and excellent year-round fishing, including ice-fishing in winter.
One of the area’s most rewarding trails follows part of the Colorado Trail from the dam to Interlaken, a historic 1880s resort once known as Colorado’s finest lakeside getaway. Interpretive signs share the story of this preserved retreat — including businessman James V. Dexter’s unique Victorian boathouse. After a day hiking, biking, snowmobiling, or simply soaking in the alpine air, settle in for stargazing at one of the elevated lake overlooks, where benches and terraces offer sweeping night-sky views. Cap it off with a cozy cabin stay or a warm local meal back in town.
These eight off-the-beaten-path hidden gems pack history, character, and mountain rigor that make them truly Colorado. Once here, a real sense of retreat ensues as towns prepare for the holiday season, each blending rugged history and mountains in an unforgettable way.
Prepare to be astounded by nature and unique events, including Cripple Creek's ice castles, wrapped in local warmth and authentic mountain spirit that leaves a mark to revisit for the donkey races, different scenery, and a whole new set of activities under warm sunshine.
