Ultimate Colorado Mountain Town Guide
Visit and Explore Our Favorite Mountain Towns in Colorado
The Rocky Mountains of Colorado are home to dozens of amazing villages, towns and other communities. Dating back to the state’s early mining booms, each town has its own unique history and charm, with great attractions, hiking trails, campgrounds, and more.
Each of our mountain town guides includes more than 20 fun things to do, along with nearby day trips, places to stay, dining recommendations, and local stories and history to give you a complete overview of these special places.
Frisco
Frisco is an underrated mountain town 70-minutes from Denver. Often overlooked due to its lack of ski resorts, that’s a mistake: it is only a 15 minute-drive from Breckenridge and Copper Mountain. Learn more below.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is home to one of Colorado’s three primary ski areas, and is a moderately developed area. While it is not as large or busy as Aspen or Vail, it is considerably more commercial than small towns like Frisco or Crested Butte.
Estes Park
Estes Park is best known as the east gateway community for those visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. There is a lot to do and see in town besides the park, including great dining, shopping, hiking, and fishing opportunities.
Lake City
Lake City is one of the last truly authentic mountain towns in Colorado. With a permanent population of just 430, and a location deep in the San Juans far from Denver, it’s a hidden gem in the Rocky Mountains you won’t soon forget.
Salida
Salida anchors the southern Arkansas River Valley and Browns Canyon, home to excellent whitewater runs and rapids. The town has a historic core, vibrant art scene, and plenty of other options for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure.
Glenwood Springs
Home to the world’s largest hot springs pool, Glenwood Springs is known for its rich history and prime location on the Colorado River, just west of the rugged Glenwood Canyon and home to world-class whitewater rafting.
Buena Vista
Buena Vista lies in the central Arkansas River Valley between Leadville and Salida. It’s the perfect base camp for climbing 14ers, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and much more.
Idaho Springs
One of the closest mountain towns to Denver, Idaho Springs has it all! History, 14ers, hot springs, mining ruins, and even a via ferrata for those with a taste for adventure.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is known as “Ski Town U.S.A” and has produced more winter olympians than any other city in North America. It’s also home to great hiking, camping, and mountain biking!
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is famous for its stunning wildflower blooms and world-renowned ski resort. Located off the beaten path, it’s worth a visit for every mountain lover.
