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20+ Colorado Mountain Towns That Are Too Cute To Pass Up

Colorado’s mountain towns are a tourist’s dream, so if you’re planning a trip, you’re in luck. We made this list of the most beautiful and action-packed places in Colorado, including mountain towns and the cutest small towns in Colorado that you can’t miss!

The bulk of Colorado’s mountain towns rose over a century ago by gold-seekers. The state of Colorado, once known for its mining industry, is today known for its stunning natural landscapes.

The picturesque mountain towns in Colorado have earned widespread state recognition. There’s bound to be a town on this list that suits your needs, whether you’re searching for a spot to hike and bike trails, search for treasure, or take in the environment.

Several beautiful mountain communities in Colorado towns are ideal for those searching for tranquility and solitude. Plus, many of these towns are famous for tourists because they are home to some of the best ski resorts in the United States. Beautiful parks, rolling hills, mighty rivers, and pristine woods are just a few more features.

When you add in the state’s rich past in gold mining and its current standing as among the most gorgeous mountains in the West, you have a rich destination in natural and cultural wonders.

We’ve visited almost all of Colorado’s mountain communities, and we’re here to tell you about our favorites.

So without further ado: here are the absolute best Colorado mountain towns and small towns in Colorado that are too cute to pass up!

20. Snowmass Village

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Snowmass Village
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Snowmass Village is only 15 minutes away from the more well-known Aspen, and it is just as lovely (and notably calmer) as its more famous neighbor. But Snowmass Village has its distinct character.

Gorgeous Elk Mountain is the home of Snowmass Village. Despite its rustic appearance, you’ll have no trouble finding modern conveniences like Italian Haute fashion.

There is no need to leave Snowmass Village once you’ve arrived. Beautiful mountains, delicious food, the Anderson Ranch Arts Center, the brand-new Base Village, exciting events, and world-class hiking opportunities are just a few attractions in this vibrant community.

In the summer, residents, and visitors flock to the mountains on foot or by bike, while in the winter, skiers and their families flock to the area to take advantage of the resort’s kid-friendly activities.

V.I.K. (Very Important Kids) is a free, kid-friendly program with activities like s’mores making, arts & crafts, and family nights. Don’t forget to take advantage of the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies’ accessible, guided treks among the fields and wildflowers!

There are several hotels in the area, but the Viceroy Snowmass is the best. The Viceroy Snowmass is the jewel in the crown of Snowmass Village. The resort, an architect by Jean-Michel-Gathy from Denniston International, is a pioneer in the local area regarding eco-friendly practices and amenities for visitors.

Be sure to check out the night vibe while you are there! It has a laid-back scene revolving around intimate lounges, community-focused brewpubs, and cozy gathering spots with soothing live music.

So get up the gang and make the trip to this town just 9 miles from the center of Aspen. It’s more peaceful and quiet, the type of spot where you can easily access nature.

19. Palisade

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Palisade
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Palisade is on the Western Slope, the center of Colorado’s winemaking region. East of Grand Junction, it’s only around fifteen minutes away. It’s in Mesa County and sits at an elevation of 4,728 feet. It is a community where a vibrant agricultural past and a new outdoor tourism industry converge.

Downtown Palisade, well known for its modest wineries, recently garnered attention when one of Colorado’s greatest young chefs, Matthew Chasseur, launched Pêche Restaurant, attracting visitors from all over the state.

Palisade is well-known not just for its excellent wine but also for its delicious fruit. In Colorado, “Palisade Peaches” are a household name and one of the state’s most celebrated delicacies. So many peaches are grown there that the city has earned the moniker “Peach Capital of Colorado.” This is one of the best Colorado mountain towns to visit during the warmer weather!

Also, Palisade is quickly becoming a popular spot for mountain bikers. Among the longest downhill mountain bike paths in the United States, the Palisade Plunge begins at the summit of Colorado’s Grand Mesa and ends in the town of Palisade.

After a decade of preparation, building, and countless dollars, The Plunge is now open.

Drive to the Palisade Rim Trailhead if you want to hike. Despite the challenge, the 13-mile journey is well worth it. From its perch over a thousand feet above town, visitors may take in breathtaking panoramas of the area’s vineyards and orchards.

Hikers, cyclists, and equestrians are all welcome on the trail; however, users of the latter two modes should exercise caution due to the trail’s proximity to cliff edges.

Finding a place to stay in this mountain community is also easy. The Wind Country Inn, the Spoke and Vine Motel, and the Hotel Maverick are all excellent options. Besides the on-site conveniences, there are several sights in the area that you can reach on foot.

18. Telluride

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Telluride
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Telluride is right up there with the best for breathtaking views and year-round fun in mountain towns.

Located in San Miguel County at an elevation of 8,750 feet, the town hosts activities for nearly every season. There are many snow-themed celebrations in winter and art and music festivals during summer and spring.

Telluride, Colorado, is a small, picturesque ski town in the San Juan Mountains that was once a mining community. You’ll find both a traditional city and a contemporary ski community at the foot of the slopes. They both have fantastic stores, delectable restaurants, and cheap hotels.

It is a fantastic place for explorers because there is so much to see and do. Snowboarding and skiing at Telluride Ski Resort is a popular pastime for visitors. The gondola hitch up to Mountain Village is free and beautiful, so go up there even if you don’t ski.

The highest waterfall in Colorado, Bridal Veil Falls, is also a popular tourist destination. Many people come here for ice climbing in the winter and hiking or canyoning in the summer.

In the summer, the Telluride via Ferrata and other outdoor activities, as well as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, bring in a lot of tourists.

Apart from those, camping and fishing are popular activities in this area.

Alta Lakes is a popular camping spot due to its high elevation (11,000 feet) and proximity to the nearby ghost town of Alta. You can also camp at the Town Park. It’s on the outskirts of town to the east and accepts reservations for RVs up to 30 feet in length.

If you’re interested in fishing, the San Miguel River and Trout Lake are two of the most well-known spots to reel in a rainbow or brown trout.

17. Frisco

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Frisco
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Frisco is among the most beautiful Colorado mountain communities.

The community has been dubbed “Main Street to the Rockies,” and its proximity to Denver (90 minutes via I-70) is a hit. Many visitors on their route to more significant destinations like Breckenridge and Vail will pass through this area.

Places to go skiing or snowboarding close to Frisco include Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. People flock here because of the abundance of exciting activities they can easily access.

Sailing on Lake Dillon is widespread, and the reservoir’s paved 19-mile ring provides a fantastic bike trip. It’s hard to discover a more picturesque site for a summer picnic than Frisco Bay Marina.

The Frisco Adventure Park is a popular snow tubing destination throughout the winter months. If you’re considering something to do in the wintertime, the Frisco Nordic Center is another excellent option. BrewSki is a beer event held on skis that you should attend in March.

If you want to get the top out of your time at Main Street to the Rockies, you should go to the downtown area. Its colorful restaurants and shops make it a pleasant spot to promenade after a day at the lake or on the slopes.

As you stroll, stop at the Frisco Historic Park and Museum. The museum, on its own, is rich with historical relics, hands-on displays, and background reading about Frisco. Eleven historic structures are at the park, including a teepee, a school, and even a jailhouse.

You can enjoy quite a few other leisure activities in this location. This cute mountain village has everything, whether you’re looking for somewhere to go hiking, biking, camping, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, or whitewater rafting. Also, there are many places to stay, so research those.

16. Gunnison

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Gunnison
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Gunnison is the place to go if you search for breathtaking cliffs and canyons.

It is a small town in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains that sees fewer visitors than other parts of the state. On the contrary, it’s a paradise for people searching for secluded wilderness exploration.

Visitors must arrive in Gunnison National Park to enter the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park. Extreme cliffs and rapids on the Colorado River make this a summertime favorite. Extreme kayakers, expert mountain climbers, and regular outdoor lovers praise the park.

Another well-liked destination is Curecanti National Recreation Area. Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado’s second-largest lake, is located here. It has some of the top camping and hiking in Colorado and is also a fantastic place to go boating and fishing.

There aren’t too many people there even during the busiest times. Indeed, you can enjoy the outdoors in peace.

There are many locations to grab a beer with a full menu, creative brews, and weekly specials in the town’s historic downtown, lined with unusual stores and fine eateries.

Also, you can access various places to stay, from standard hotels to secluded lodges.

You can be confident that your stop will be enjoyable at Rockey River Resort because the innkeepers pay meticulous attention to every detail.

On the other hand, Lost Canyon Resort is away in the woods and just next to the river. Luxury suites perfect for two or small groups are available at this resort.

15. Granby

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Granby
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Granby is second to none regarding recreational boating, fishing, and other water sports.

It is a beautiful alpine hamlet west of Rocky Mountain National Park. Colorado’s third most prominent body of water resides here, which is saying something given the state’s dry climate.

They say Granby is a hunter’s paradise. There are beautiful sights in every direction from where it is in the broad valley. Lake Granby to the north provides good fishing, and you can reach national forests from most points. You can also find more of the “great lakes of Colorado” in this area of the town.

The trailhead to Monarch Lake is far to the east of Lake Granby. Since it’s the gateway to the Indian Peaks Wilderness, hiking is another well-liked summertime activity. A wintertime highlight is the family-friendly skiing at the nearby Winter Park Resort.

Granby also has a year-round resort, Granby Ranch, apart from its ski slope. In the winter, guests can go skiing, while in the summer, they can play golf or ride bikes. The resort is on the borders of the town.

The Arapaho National Forest is a must-see if you enjoy cycling. Spectacular mountain riding is sure here because of the abundance of beautiful routes in the area.

However, several beautiful Lake Granby-view campsites exist at Arapaho National Recreation Area. Some of the more beautiful camping spots include Stillwater and Arapaho Bay.

As a handy base from which to explore Grand County, Granby offers a comfortable lodging, tasty food, and excellent shopping. The town claims to be “the heart of something grand,” which serves as its motto. The distance between Granby and Denver is less than two hours.

14. Vail

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Vail
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Roughly two hours west of Denver, in Eagle County, you’ll find Vail, which sprawls on both sides of Interstate 70.

The charming ski towns, fashioned after those in Austria, are located at an altitude of 2,600 meters (8,150 feet). Vail Village and Lionshead Village are only a 15-minute stroll away, and both provide a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities.

Surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, the Vail Valley is a year-round tourist hotspot. You can go downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, or even snow tubing in the colder months. Camping, kayaking, hiking, or fishing are fantastic options for enjoying the outdoors when the temperature rises.

Also, you can explore the area’s stunning scenery on any of the various 4×4 paths. Every month of the year has a festival that welcomes all ages and has live music, delicious food, and many exciting activities.

The Vail Ski Resort is among the most widespread destinations in the area. There are over 5,000 skiable acres, so there’s always a new slope or powder spot to discover.

In the warmer months, visitors enjoy the mountain for its many exciting attractions, including the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, as well as for biking and hiking.

Vail Village is a delightful Disney World-Esque village that’s lovely to stroll around. Enjoy an afternoon glass of beer or wine while people-watching and window shopping among the gorgeous architecture.

Afterward, you can head over to Lionshead Village to finish your sightseeing. There are countless retail establishments, dining options, and accommodations between the two.

You can’t go mistaken with any of these three hotels in Vail: The Arrabelle at Vail Square, Four Seasons Resort Vail, or The Sebastian. Each is unique and has amenities like a spa, pub, pool, etc.

13. Idaho Springs

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Idaho Springs
thisisidahosprings.com

Passers-by on Interstate 70 on their way to or from the mountains frequently stop in Idaho Springs. Idaho Springs is most famous for its hot springs, but the area offers much more to tourists and travelers in search of excitement.

Rafters may enjoy one of the most popular summertime activities in town. Clear Creek flows through town and features exciting class IV and V rapids and excellent fishing opportunities.

It is a top commercial rafting destination in the state of Colorado. Clear Creek rafting season is from mid-May to the end of August.

You can go skiing in the nearby Loveland Ski Area in the winter. Summit County and Winter Park, two of Colorado’s most visited ski areas, can be found on the other side of Berthoud Pass.

Several blocks of Idaho Spring’s historic district are open to the public for strolling and are with interesting old buildings. They have a wide range of retail outlets, dining options, and even accommodation options.

Furthermore, Indian Hot Springs is in this area. Traditional medicine has long recognized the healing potential of the springs. The geothermal caves here make these hot springs unique, carved in the early 1900s.

A couple of the town’s historical excursions remain open all year, as befits a place with a mining heritage as rich as this one. Visits to the Argo and Phoenix gold mines are the most well-known excursions in the area.

As you can see, this town is convenient for several entertainment options. To top it off, Idaho Springs has few places to stay and eat across town.

12. Durango

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Durango
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The terrain in and around Durango is breathtaking, peaceful, or stunning. Because of its vast downtown and plenty of services, it is one of the significant mountain towns in the region. Its rich past makes it an exciting detour for people interested in trains, ghost towns, or archeological sites.

With an average altitude of over 6,500 feet, Durango offers the best of both worlds: a picturesque winter landscape and more agreeable weather.

A lovely 45-minute trip west will take you to the world-famous Mesa Verde archaeological sites. If you are around the southwestern United States at any time of year, you must stop at this national park. An airport is close by, transporting passengers and freight more straightforwardly.

Popular among visitors visiting Durango is a trip to the Animas River. Besides its attractiveness as a tourist attraction, the river is also a great place to go swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. Many areas along the river also provide excellent fishing!

The resort at Purgatory Mountain is also highly recommended. Locals call it “Purg,” but visitors can expect a lively variety of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. It has the most remarkable vistas and enjoyable, undulating terrain of the town’s three ski resorts.

Although there are numerous hotels to choose from in town, we recommend the Strater. This hotel will give you a taste of the Old West.

The Strater, which opened in 1887, quickly gained popularity among locals. The kind staff and beautiful Victorian architecture only enhance the significance of this National Historic Landmark.

The Mahogany Grille is the resort’s fine dining establishment; the Diamond Belle Saloon is a ragtime piano bar; and The Office Spiritorium serves up premium spirits, small plates, and lighter fare.

11. Breckenridge

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Breckenridge
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Breckenridge is well-known for its high-end ski resort, breathtaking mountain views, and abundance of leisure activities. Plenty of eateries, stores, and saloons adorn the streets of this once-thriving mining town.

Visitors to Breck come from all around the world. Locating a delicious lunch or happy hour is easy because it has more restaurants per capita than any other mountain town. The elevation of the settlement in Summit County is 9,600 feet.

I-70, Denver, and other major ski areas are all within driving distance from Breckenridge. Within the city limits, leisure activities abound.

In the winter, you can adore a variety of sports, like a snowmobile, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding. The town transforms into a theme park throughout the summer, turning the area into a veritable paradise.

Breckenridge Ski Resort is the site if you want to enjoy skiing or snowboarding. Skiing and snowboarding are top-notch here, with over 2,900 acres of terrain serviced by 35 lifts.

This enormous resort truly has everything for everyone. It’s one of the state’s busiest resorts for a good reason; with its five mountains and old town, you’ll never be bored. The highest point is just under 13,000 feet above sea level, and the longest of the 187 runs is over 3.5 miles in length.

In the summertime, Breckenridge Fun Park is a must-visit. Rides and activities, such as an alpine slide & mountain biking, are appropriate for people of all ages.

Since you can enjoy many exhausting activities in this region, you may want to eat at one of the town’s many eateries. We recommend Ollie’s Pub and Grub for traditional pub food and beer.

If you’re looking for a restaurant serving everything from hamburgers to goat tacos, look no further than the Gold Pan Saloon.

10. Nederland

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Nederland
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Nederland is a mountain town that offers various experiences, from the unusual to the stunning.

West of Boulder,  it is a peculiar Colorado mountain community. The town is well-known for its annual winter event, Frozen Dead Guy Days, which honors a local man who died and was freezing in time. The outlandish plot inspires wacky events like the Blue Ball & coffin races.

However, the mountains around Nederland are popular destinations for outdoor activities even when the festival isn’t going on.

One of the top ski resorts close to Denver, Eldora Mountain Resort is a local favorite. Skiing on 680 acres here is both exhilarating and reasonably priced. The ski resort is conveniently located just ten to fifteen minutes from downtown. There is a satisfying range of difficulties, from easy to complex.

Summertime in Nederland means hiking season, and the Hessie Trailhead is a popular starting point. Lost Lake and other amazing hikes in the stunning Indian Peaks Wilderness are reachable from here.

Barker Reservoir, the town’s lake, frames Nederland beautifully. You can fish here, but you can’t bring a boat. It’s also fantastic for taking a stroll and scenic vistas.

The Brainard Lake Recreation Area is home to another stunning lake and is the most visited location in the Boulder Ranger District. This area has a campground, opportunities for fishing and hunting, and miles of hiking paths.

Finding lodging is essential if you want to take advantage of all the Nederland offers. As luck would have it, the city is rife with options.

The Goldminer Hotel is our top recommendation. The hotel’s five main suites around the hotel’s historic building date back 115 years. You can gather around the communal table every morning and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked breakfast.

9. Creede

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Creede
creedeamerica.com

Creede is a picture-perfect example of a quaint Colorado mountain community. It may be sparsely populated, but it makes up for it with spectacular scenery.

Among the most attractive places in all of Southwest Colorado, there are exciting things to do here through the seasons. At an elevation of 8,799 feet above sea level, the downtown strip is at the base of a breathtaking, steep canyon.

The old mining settlement is accessible off the usual road on Colorado Route 149, which links Gunnison and South Fork.

Even though getting there is more of a challenge, history buffs and nature lovers should check it out. Creede is home to unique galleries and hiking trails at over 14,000 feet.

Educational tours offered by former miners are a big draw at the Underground Mining Museum.

Do you want to experience the delight of living in a frontier town? The Rio Grande National Forest and the Wheeler Geological Area are also close by and have a variety of trails and backroads ideal for hikers.

Though quieter in the winter, the village sees an influx of snowmobilers and those searching for solitude during the busy summer months. Creede is surrounded on almost all sides by public land, making it simple to find a spot to camp or go on a hike. Other than paths, the area is rich with lakes and rivers.

Also, there is no lack of places to stay and eat in the area.

The Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and the luxurious 4UR Ranch are excellent places to stay. On the other hand, Tommyknocker Tavern is a terrific destination for BBQ, while Kip’s Grill delivers fresh, handcrafted tacos.

Since there are places that cover your needs, you can relax and take advantage of everything Creede offers!

8. Georgetown

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Georgetown
uncovercolorado.com

Colorado’s historic railroad and beautiful fall foliage draw visitors to the mountain hamlet of Georgetown.

Georgetown, Colorado, is a beautiful example of a Colorado mountain town. Town dwellers can easily access the famous beautiful route that begins at the nearby Guanella Pass. In the autumn, it is a portal to the golden aspens of Colorado, a tourist favorite destination.

Visitors flock to Georgetown Lake no matter the time of year. The reservoir is popular with anglers and kayakers in warmer months, while ice fishermen set up tents all over it.

However, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is why the town exists. This vintage steam engine was built in 1884 and ran along a small canyon to the village of Silver Plume. Great for kids of all ages and available all year round!

One of the best hotels in town is the Hotel Chateau Chamonix. This hotel, which is smack dab amid Georgetown’s Historic District, is as unique as it is endearing. Private decks and jetted tubs add to the atmosphere of luxury.

Rose Street Bed & Breakfast is the place to stay if you’re in the mood for a B&B. This charming inn is located in a historic home dating back to the 1800s and features four spacious suites. Guests can enjoy a hearty, handmade breakfast, afternoon sweets, and hot beverages every morning.

If you choose either of the recommended hotels, you can enjoy the town’s amenities during your stay. Adventures like hiking, fishing, and camping are all part of it. Also, the area around the lodgings features a variety of food possibilities.

From the hotel establishments, you may walk to Happy Cooker, an excellent breakfast and lunch eatery with a pleasant patio, or to Lucha Cantina, serving sophisticated Mexican cuisine besides burgers, ribs, wings, and steaks.

7. Steamboat Springs

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Steamboat Springs
alltrails.com

Steamboat Springs is one of Colorado’s most famous mountain towns for outdoor and cultural pursuits.

Among the numerous enjoyable activities available in Colorado is a visit to Steamboat Ski Resort for a dose of the champagne powder that is so famous there.

Although it is well known for its world-class skiing, Steamboat Springs is one of Colorado’s finest mountain communities for many other reasons.

The resort’s ski runs transform into mountain biking paths in the summer. Fishermen cast their hooks into the Yampa River and hikers journey to Fish Creek Falls.

To relax after a day of seeing Steamboat Springs’ many exciting attractions, we recommend soaking in Strawberry Park Hot Springs or trying out a few samples from the area’s breweries.

At the height of 6,732 feet, Downtown Steamboat Springs has wide roads (for accommodating huge cattle herds), friendly inhabitants, and timeless natural beauty. It’s ideal for people who can’t decide between a restful getaway and a trip full of exciting activities.

The Steamboat Art Museum and the Tread of Pioneers Museum are two of the town’s cultural highlights. You won’t want to waste your trip if you miss a performance by the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra, so be sure to check their schedule before you go.

6. Ouray

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Ouray
alltrails.com

As a mountain town in Colorado, Ouray stands out for its exceptional ice-climbing community.

Ouray is among the most stunning mountain towns in Colorado, and it’s often called the “Switzerland of America” because of its picturesque mountain setting. It enjoys a picturesque location in the San Juan Mountains along Million Dollar Highway.

The main street in the downtown area is with restored Victorian-era buildings that now house shops and eateries. The Orvis Hot Springs and the one-of-a-kind Wiesbaden Vapor Cave are two places.

However, Ouray is best known for its ice-climbing community. The Ouray Ice Park hosts the Ouray Ice Festival and Competition in January. This event, unique to this beautiful mountain town, attracts pro athletes and viewers worldwide.

This city is also proud of its many recreational opportunities.

The Uncompahgre RiverWay trail is the ultimate destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. Montrose is accessible at the end of a stroll along this riverside path.

Mountain biking on the Galloping Goose trail is a thrilling experience in and of itself. It stretches approximately 20 miles and uses an abandoned narrow gauge railway.

There are also some fantastic places to set up a tent. Ridgway State Park, Ouray RV Park, Cabin, and Thistledown Campground are part of the package.

This town is well-known for its excellent climbing opportunities. Climbing enthusiasts will enjoy the Rotary Park, and families will appreciate the park’s many shady picnic areas.

The Sandias, accessible from Old Twin Peaks Trail, are equally stunning red cliffs with a wealth of multi-pitch trad and bolted routes.

Go to The Pool Wall if you don’t mind having people watch you climb. There are more routes here than everywhere else in Ouray, and they’re all easy, single-pitch sport climbs.

5. Silverton

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Silverton
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Silverton, nestled between Durango and Ouray, is home to some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery. The downtown area is bustling with retail, dining, and lodging options, despite the town’s reputation as one of the more remote San Juans.

During the winter weekdays, Silverton Mountain closes, and the town can feel deserted, but on the weekends, the action begins. Silverton, San Juan County, is the highest incorporated community in Colorado in the United States, at an elevation of 9,318 feet.

Historic mining for silver took place in Silverton, Colorado, now a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and fans of the American West. This town has a wealth of history and summertime activities and is in the National Historic Landmark District.

The train ride between Durango and Silverton is one of the highlights. The bus leaves Durango every day and stays in Silverton for about two hours before returning. That tiny gauge railroad is among the most well-known in all of Colorado. This vintage train has offered unforgettable views for over a decade!

The Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is just as stunning. Visitors can ski, ice skate, and do cross-country skiing on this little mountain in the winter—an ideal place for novices to gain their ski legs.

Traveling only fifteen minutes from Silverton, visitors can experience a tour that recreates the golden age of mining in Colorado. Although it is only available during certain times of the year, it gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like for miners a century ago.

San Juan County Historical Society & Silverton Mountain Ski Area are not good places to get a good night’s rest. See why they are so famous among vacationers from all over the country.

4. Estes Park

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Silverton
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Estes Park is one of the best Colorado mountain towns. It’s a popular beginning point for visitors visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.

Because of its proximity to Denver, Estes Park has become one of the state’s most visited communities. This pretty community is a popular destination for tourists and locals throughout the year, especially during the warmer months. And it’s just so cute!

In historic Estes Park, tourists can go souvenir shopping and try local Colorado brews. Popular with visitors is the Stanley Hotel, made famous as the location for the film The Shining. Elk Fest is a celebration of the local herds in this alpine town every October.

Estes Park is also a gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Hikers who purchase a National Parks Pass will access some of Colorado’s finest trails. Colorado is a year-round outdoor recreation paradise, with activities like rock climbing, fishing, and cross-country skiing accessible throughout the year.

Another must-see is Lake Estes. Just outside of town is this stunning mountain lake. It is now possible to enjoy wakeless boating and fishing on Lake Estes. Swimming is prohibited, but you can wade in the lake on the sandy beach.

Many Estes Park locals consider the YMCA of the Rockies one of the city’s best-kept secrets. There are many exciting outdoor activities, from disc golf and challenging courses to hiking and fly fishing.

Do you want to see the entire city without exertion? Take a ride on the Estes Park aerial tramway, which operates from the end of May to the beginning of September.

Apart from the beautiful scenery, Estes Park is home to various lodging options. There is something to keep you busy all the time.

3. Crested Butte

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Crested Butte
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Crested Butte is a treasure among Colorado mountain towns, yet it isn’t easy to reach.

Located in the core of the Rocky Mountains, there is just one route that you can take during the winter that is more than 30 miles long, and that leaves from Gunnison.

During the warmer months, a long, twisting dirt road provides access from the west. Indeed, some visitors choose to make the arduous 10-mile journey from Aspen.

Though difficult to reach, this alpine community is famous throughout the year. Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s ski runs have a wide variety of terrain and thick snow.

Adventure sports like mountain riding, rock climbing, and hiking are popular during the year’s warmer months. You shouldn’t miss the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival if you’re in town in July.

Crested Butte Adventure Park is another must-see attraction. CB Adventure Park, located at the resort’s doorstep, is a hub of excitement all year round. Snow tubing and an indoor mini-golf course are available throughout winter. You can jump as high as thirty feet with the bungee trampoline.

Also, a rock climbing wall is 28 feet in height accessible in the park. It features six climbing routes and an automatic belay.

The historical sites in this ancient mining town are plentiful. Explore the historic district of Crested Butte, full of colorful Victorian-era buildings, and then head out to the nearby ghost town of Gothic. The Crested Butte Museum also provides a good resource for knowledge about local culture and history.

2. Glenwood Springs

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Glenwood Springs
destinationcolorado.com

The mining hamlet of Glenwood Springs has transformed into a bustling tourist destination due to the area’s famous hot springs. I-70 provides easy access to the site and has various recreational opportunities, such as skiing, fishing, trekking, and bicycling.

You may take in the historic architecture of Glenwood Springs as you explore its lovely downtown streets. Get to know the local history while you shop and eat. As the Colorado River meanders through the city, it provides a scenic riverwalk that links to an extensive system of paths.

Rafting the Colorado River begins in Rocky Mountain National Park to the northwest and continues via Glenwood Springs on its way to Utah and further towards the southwest.

Summer rafting trips along the Colorado River are ordinary in Glenwood Canyon. This whitewater rafting trip is excellent for families searching for an adventure.

Those interested in rafting or kayaking will have a blast on the artificial rapids found in Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park. This whitewater park is conveniently in the heart of town. Walking by, you can enjoy the spectacle even if you don’t participate in the action.

Sunlight Mountain has several advantages, yet few Coloradans have heard of it. The lift tickets are cheap, the snow is light and dry, and it’s a great little mountain with some of the best glade skiing in the state.

Hot springs are a natural attraction in this area. The hot springs pool in Glenwood is the largest in the world.

The Yampah Vapor Caves are a network of underground passageways known for their thick, vaporous air. You may unwind at the Colorado River’s banks at Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

South Canyon Hot Springs is located just outside town, appealing to those seeking a more rustic and unspoiled environment to unwind.

1. Aspen

The best Colorado mountain towns to visit: Aspen
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Aspen, Colorado, is the most well-known and wealthy of all the state’s mountain towns.

It is an outdoor lover’s heaven due to its location. At an altitude of 7,908 feet, it is next to some of the gorgeous mountains in the state. It’s close to civilization but far away enough to feel like a wilderness getaway.

Aspen’s premier cultural attraction, the Aspen Art Museum, is known for consistently presenting cutting-edge shows. The Red Brick Center for the Arts comes in at a close second and is a fantastic option for vacationers who prefer a more intellectual destination.

Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass, are the four distinct mountains you can ski or snowboard in this town. Ski resorts provide a variety of summertime alpine activities.

You can’t go to Aspen, Colorado, and not visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, the state’s most popular tourist destination. In this area, visitors frequently go camping, fishing, and hiking. Excursions into Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness are also available.

Aspen’s appeal also stems from the Roaring Fork River. It’s a rushing river that cuts through the middle of Aspen.

Besides being a great fishing spot, Devil’s Punchbowl is also known for its cliff jumping. The Roaring Fork River offers some of the best rafting in Colorado, with exciting whitewater upstream near Aspen and calmer waters downstream near Glenwood Springs, perfect for family outings.

The Silver Circle Ice Rink in Aspen is an excellent skating venue. The gorgeous outdoor rink is accessible during the winter. When summer arrives, Silver Circle becomes a mini golf course.

Apart from the aforementioned, tourists love Aspen for its excellent cuisine, posh shops, and other attractions.

Aspen is the most glamorous of Colorado’s mountain towns, and no other city in the state comes close to matching its amenities!

In Closing

The Centennial State has the ingredients to become a tourist hotspot. Every corner of the state offers plenty of exciting activities, attractions, and events you cannot access anywhere else in the country and the world. It is evident in each of the mountain towns we mentioned.

If you plan to visit this state soon, consider a place or two from our list of the 20 Colorado mountain towns that are too cute to pass up. No matter what you choose, the area will treat you, and your time there will become remarkable. You will love it!

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