Some places disappear into the landscape so completely they seem to be made of it. Colorado’s Flat Tops Wilderness isn’t sharp or jagged like the marquee Rockies—it’s older, worn flatter by time and frost. Broad basalt plateaus edge against alpine lakes and aspen groves that move like breath. Here, the towns don’t shout; they keep to themselves.
Places like Toponas, a crossroad village with more fence posts than residents, or Buford, where the local population could fit in a canoe, aren’t trying to be discovered. They offer quiet by default, not design. Solitude isn’t curated—it’s just what’s left when the road ends.
The Flat Tops get their name from the table-like formations that define the high country here. But it might as well be for how everything in this region feels leveled: noise, ego, time. The pace is slow not because it wants to be quaint, but because it has no reason to be fast.
Each of these 10 towns is a place where the air thins, the cell signal fades, and something more essential begins. They aren’t destinations so much as thresholds—entrances to a kind of quiet we rarely permit ourselves.
10. Pyramid, Colorado
Discover Pyramid, a secluded locale nestled near the Flat Tops Wilderness, perfect for those seeking quiet and natural beauty. With a sparse population, this tiny community offers an intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness.
Outdoor activities abound, from hiking scenic trails to fishing in crystal-clear streams teeming with trout. The area is predominantly rural, with ranching being the mainstay of local industry.
What makes Pyramid truly secluded is its distance from major highways and cities, providing an unspoiled environment where the pace of life slows down. Visitors and residents alike relish the tranquility and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature uninterrupted.
Where is Pyramid?
Pyramid is located in northwestern Colorado, tucked away in the rolling hills near the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Its remote setting is amplified by the rugged terrain and the absence of significant development in the vicinity.
The town’s seclusion is further accentuated by limited accessibility, reachable primarily via unpaved county roads that wind through the picturesque landscape.
Getting there requires a scenic drive off the beaten path, rewarding travelers with stunning views and a sense of entering a hidden world untouched by modern distractions.
9. Dunckley Pass Community
Uncover the remote Dunckley Pass area, where sparse settlements provide a tranquil escape amid lush forests and scenic vistas. This tiny community is home to a handful of residents who cherish the solitude offered by the surrounding Routt National Forest.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and during the fall, witnessing some of the most vibrant aspen foliage in Colorado. The main industries here are limited, with ranching and forestry being the primary occupations.
The area’s seclusion stems from its high elevation and the densely forested terrain that envelopes it, creating a natural barrier from the hustle of urban life.
Where is Dunckley Pass?
Dunckley Pass is situated in the northwestern part of Colorado, straddling the counties of Routt and Rio Blanco. The pass sits at over 9,700 feet, offering breathtaking views of the Flat Tops and beyond.
Its remote location is accessible via Forest Service roads, which are often unpaved and can be challenging during inclement weather, adding to its isolated charm.
Travelers seeking to reach Dunckley Pass should prepare for a journey through winding mountain roads, where the journey itself becomes part of the serene experience.
8. Trappers Lake Area
Experience the seclusion of the Trappers Lake area, surrounded by pristine wilderness and offering a tranquil retreat away from urban life. With no permanent residents, this area is a haven for campers and anglers seeking solitude in one of Colorado’s most picturesque settings.
Known as the “Cradle of Wilderness,” Trappers Lake is revered for its untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and clear waters perfect for fly-fishing. There are no industries here, just a few rustic lodges and campgrounds that blend seamlessly with the environment.
The seclusion comes from its protected status and the commitment to preserving its natural state, free from development.
Where is Trappers Lake?
Trappers Lake is located deep within the Flat Tops Wilderness Area in northwestern Colorado. It’s roughly 50 miles east of Meeker, accessible via a scenic drive on County Road 8 and Trappers Lake Road.
The remoteness is intensified by the lack of paved roads leading directly to the lake, and during winter months, access can be limited due to snow.
Visitors must navigate winding mountain roads, but upon arrival, are rewarded with the serenity of a wilderness largely untouched by human hands. Getting there is an adventure in itself, underscoring the lake’s reputation as a secluded gem.
7. Hamilton, Colorado
Explore Hamilton, a remote area with a limited population, providing solitude amidst the backdrop of Colorado’s scenic wilderness. With a population of just a few dozen residents, Hamilton offers a quiet lifestyle surrounded by rolling hills and open skies.
The Yampa River winds nearby, offering opportunities for fishing and riverside picnics. Agriculture and ranching are the primary industries, with vast stretches of land dedicated to grazing and farming.
Hamilton’s seclusion is rooted in its distance from urban centers and its location along lesser-traveled routes, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a connection with the land.
Where is Hamilton?
Hamilton is located in Moffat County, in northwestern Colorado, approximately 20 miles south of the larger town of Craig. Nestled along Highway 13, it remains off the main tourist paths, with the surrounding landscapes characterized by high desert terrain and ranchland.
The town’s remote nature is accentuated by the expansive vistas and minimal development.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through rural Colorado, where the journey unfolds along rolling landscapes dotted with sagebrush and set against distant mountain ranges. This easy pace of life and the open expanse make Hamilton a secluded retreat.
6. Radium, Colorado
Visit Radium, an isolated community near the Colorado River, surrounded by rugged terrain and ideal for a peaceful escape. With a tiny population, Radium is a haven for those seeking adventure in nature.
Popular activities include rafting and fishing on the Colorado River, as well as hiking and soaking in the nearby Radium Hot Springs, a hidden gem known only to locals and intrepid travelers.
The area lacks significant industry but is rich in outdoor recreational opportunities. Its seclusion is due in part to the remote location in the river canyon and the limited access roads, which keep visitor numbers low and the environment pristine.
Where is Radium?
Radium is situated in Grand County in north-central Colorado, nestled along the banks of the Colorado River. It’s located off County Road 11, accessible via a series of winding roads through mountainous terrain. The community’s isolation is heightened by the rugged landscape that surrounds it and the absence of nearby towns.
To reach Radium, travelers often traverse dirt roads and narrow passes, which contributes to its untouched atmosphere and the sense of discovery upon arrival. The journey offers stunning views, making the secluded destination well worth the effort.
5. McCoy, Colorado
Discover McCoy, a secluded area with vast landscapes and minimal population, perfect for immersing in nature and enjoying solitude. With around 20 residents, McCoy is a tight-knit community where ranching and farming are the mainstays.
The town is surrounded by sweeping meadows, rolling hills, and the nearby Colorado River, offering activities like fishing, horseback riding, and hiking.
McCoy’s seclusion is attributed to its location away from major highways and its surroundings of unspoiled wilderness, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and spaciousness that is hard to find elsewhere.
Where is McCoy?
McCoy is located in Eagle County, north of the more bustling Vail area, along State Highway 131. The town is situated between Steamboat Springs and Wolcott, making it remote yet accessible. The seclusion arises from the expansive ranchlands and the lack of urban development in the vicinity.
Reaching McCoy involves a scenic drive through high country roads flanked by vast open spaces and the distant silhouettes of the Rockies. This peaceful journey enhances the sense of escape from the frenetic pace of modern life.
4. Phippsburg, Colorado
Explore Phippsburg, a quiet unincorporated community nestled near the Flat Tops Wilderness, offering a peaceful retreat amidst natural beauty. Home to approximately 200 residents, Phippsburg exudes small-town charm with a close-knit community vibe.
Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby forests and meadows. The area has a historical connection to the railroad industry, although today it’s primarily residential with some local businesses.
Phippsburg’s seclusion is characterized by its location in a serene valley, away from the main tourist routes, providing a tranquil setting that feels worlds apart from bustling city life.
Where is Phippsburg?
Phippsburg is located in Routt County, along State Highway 131, south of Steamboat Springs. The town lies at the edge of the Routt National Forest, enhancing its secluded feel with easy access to wilderness areas.
The remoteness is accentuated by the surrounding landscapes of rolling hills and forested areas that buffer it from larger towns. To get there, travelers enjoy a picturesque drive through the Yampa Valley, with views of distant mountain peaks and sprawling ranchlands, culminating in the peaceful enclave that is Phippsburg.
3. Toponas, Colorado
Experience the tranquility of Toponas, a sparsely populated area surrounded by rolling hills and ranchland, ideal for those seeking seclusion. With fewer than 50 residents, Toponas is a community where everyone knows each other, and life moves at a gentle pace.
The region is dotted with working ranches, and agriculture is the cornerstone of the local economy. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the open spaces, ideal for horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife observation.
Toponas’ seclusion is due to its remote location amid vast natural landscapes and its distance from urban centers, offering a true escape into the quiet heart of Colorado’s countryside.
Where is Toponas?
Toponas is situated in Routt County at the junction of State Highway 131 and Routt County Road 5. It’s positioned roughly halfway between Steamboat Springs and the towns to the south, making it distinctly off the beaten path.
The area is surrounded by expansive fields and undulating terrain, with the Flat Tops Wilderness to the west. Getting to Toponas involves a peaceful drive through scenic byways, with little traffic and plenty of room to breathe, reinforcing its reputation as a hidden gem for solitude seekers.
2. Burns, Colorado
Unwind in Burns, is a small rural community along the Colorado River, providing wide-open spaces and a serene environment far from urban centers. Home to a modest number of residents, Burns is characterized by its rugged landscapes and agricultural roots.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, rafting, and exploring the surrounding wilderness by foot or horseback. The main industries are ranching and farming, with vast fields and grazing lands stretching as far as the eye can see.
Burns’ seclusion comes from its remote river valley location and limited accessibility, making it a perfect spot for those desiring peace and a strong connection with nature.
Where is Burns?
Burns is located in Eagle County, along the upper Colorado River Road (County Road 301). It’s nestled between Glenwood Springs and Steamboat Springs but remains well off the main highways.
The seclusion of Burns is heightened by the rugged canyon landscapes and the meandering river that defines the area. Access is primarily via rural roads that offer stunning views but require a deliberate journey.
The drive to Burns is a scenic adventure through Colorado’s wild terrain, leading to a place where the outside world seems to fade away.
1. Buford, Colorado
Discover Buford, a tiny unincorporated community in the heart of the Flat Tops Wilderness, offering solitude amidst stunning mountainous landscapes. With a population that once held the title of the smallest town in America, Buford is home to only a handful of residents.
The area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting activities like hiking, fishing, hunting, and in the winter, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. There are no major industries here, just an appreciation for the natural surroundings and a lifestyle that embraces simplicity.
Buford’s extreme seclusion is due to its high elevation, remote location, and minimal development, providing an unparalleled retreat from the modern world.
Where is Buford?
Buford is located along the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway (County Road 8), approximately 30 miles east of Meeker in Rio Blanco County. Nestled at an elevation of around 8,000 feet, the community is enveloped by the Flat Tops Mountains, with panoramic views at every turn.
The seclusion is intensified by the winding mountain roads and the lack of nearby towns or services.
To reach Buford, travelers embark on a journey through dramatic landscapes, including towering cliffs and dense forests, culminating in a destination that feels truly off the grid. The journey itself underscores the remoteness and the allure of Buford as a secluded haven.
