Nestled within the serene landscapes of Colorado’s Wet Mountains are towns that offer a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. These secluded communities are rich in history, natural beauty, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, outdoor adventures, or a close-knit community, these hidden gems provide the perfect backdrop for a tranquil lifestyle. Join us as we countdown the 10 most secluded towns in this picturesque region, each offering its own unique charm and allure.
10. Red Wing: Remote Living Among Rolling Hills
With a population hovering around just a few dozen residents, Red Wing is the epitome of secluded living. This tiny community is surrounded by expansive landscapes of rolling hills and open skies, making it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the untouched natural surroundings. The town has no major industries, contributing to its quiet, peaceful atmosphere. What makes Red Wing truly secluded is its distance from larger towns and the absence of commercial development, allowing residents to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
Where is Red Wing?
Located in Huerfano County in southern Colorado, Red Wing sits off the beaten path among the Wet Mountains. Its remote location is accentuated by the limited road access and vast open spaces that separate it from neighboring communities. Getting to Red Wing typically involves a scenic drive through rural roads, enhancing the sense of isolation and offering breathtaking views along the way. This remoteness is a key part of Red Wing’s charm, providing an escape that’s both peaceful and invigorating.
9. Cotopaxi: Riverside Calm Away from City Life
Cotopaxi is home to approximately 50 residents who enjoy the town’s serene riverside setting along the Arkansas River. This small community offers a peaceful lifestyle with opportunities for fishing, rafting, and camping. The main industries here include a handful of local businesses catering to outdoor activities and tourism. Cotopaxi’s seclusion stems from its sparse population and the surrounding natural landscapes that shield it from the noise and pace of urban areas.
Where is Cotopaxi?
Nestled in Fremont County, Cotopaxi lies in south-central Colorado, about 25 miles west of Cañon City. The town’s secluded nature is enhanced by the rugged terrain of the Wet Mountains and limited access roads. Travelers reach Cotopaxi via Highway 50, which winds through scenic canyons and forests. Its location along the Arkansas River not only provides recreational opportunities but also acts as a natural barrier, preserving the town’s quiet ambiance.
8. Rosita: Abandoned Mining Town Turned Haven
Once a bustling mining town in the late 1800s, Rosita is now a quiet haven with a population of fewer than 100 people. The remnants of its mining history add a touch of historical intrigue, with old structures and stories waiting to be explored. Residents and visitors can enjoy the peaceful environment and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The lack of active industries contributes to Rosita’s serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude amid historical settings.
Where is Rosita?
Rosita is situated in Custer County, tucked away in the foothills of the Wet Mountains. The town is accessed via winding country roads that enhance its secluded feel. Its position away from major highways and urban centers means that Rosita remains largely undisturbed by the outside world. Visitors often find that the journey to Rosita is as enchanting as the destination itself, with scenic vistas accompanying them all the way.
7. Hillside: Quiet Countryside Escape
Hillside is a sparsely populated area with a close-knit community of around 50 residents. The town offers unparalleled privacy and stunning panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Activities here revolve around enjoying the great outdoors, with ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and simply soaking in the tranquility. There are no significant industries, which helps maintain Hillside’s peaceful and unspoiled environment. The town’s seclusion is a major draw for those looking to disconnect from the fast pace of modern life.
Where is Hillside?
Located in Fremont County, Hillside sits along State Highway 69 between Westcliffe and Texas Creek. Its remote location is characterized by vast open spaces and minimal development. The town is accessible by a scenic drive through the Wet Mountain Valley, which underscores its separation from more populated areas. This isolation ensures that Hillside remains a quiet refuge for its residents and visitors alike.
6. Wetmore: Tranquil Retreat in the Hills
Wetmore is home to approximately 500 residents who enjoy the town’s rustic charm and tranquil environment. Nestled in the hills, it’s known for spacious properties that offer plenty of privacy. Outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring nearby San Isabel National Forest are popular here. With limited commercial activity and no major industries, Wetmore maintains a serene atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere. Its secluded nature is one of its most appealing features, attracting those who value peace and quiet.
Where is Wetmore?
Situated at the junction of State Highways 96 and 67 in Custer County, Wetmore serves as a gateway to the Wet Mountains. The town’s location away from bustling cities and major highways enhances its seclusion. Accessing Wetmore involves a scenic drive through mountainous terrain, which further emphasizes its peaceful setting. Its proximity to natural attractions while remaining secluded makes Wetmore a unique destination for those seeking respite from urban life.
5. Gardner: Gateway to Outdoor Adventure
Gardner is a small community with a population of around 150 people. It’s known for its peaceful ambiance and proximity to various outdoor recreational activities, including hiking in the nearby mountains and exploring the abundant wildlife. The town lacks significant industrial development, contributing to its quiet, laid-back atmosphere. Gardner’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the vast natural landscapes that surround it, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Where is Gardner?
Located in Huerfano County, Gardner sits along State Highway 69, northwest of Walsenburg. The town is nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, providing stunning views and a sense of isolation. The limited roadways and distance from larger towns accentuate Gardner’s secluded feel. Visitors typically reach Gardner after a scenic drive through expansive valleys and rolling hills, reinforcing the town’s connection with nature.
4. Rye: Small-Town Living Off the Beaten Path
Rye boasts a population of about 200 residents who appreciate its quiet, rural atmosphere. The town offers a peaceful lifestyle with activities like hiking in the nearby Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness and fishing in local streams. Rye’s main industries are small businesses that cater to the community’s needs, preserving its quaint charm. Its seclusion is derived from its distance from urban centers and its picturesque mountain backdrop, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Where is Rye?
Rye is situated in Pueblo County, along State Highway 165. The town is nestled in the foothills of the Wet Mountains, providing a natural barrier from the noise and activity of larger cities. Access to Rye involves traversing scenic byways that wind through forests and mountainous terrain. This remote location ensures that Rye remains a tranquil haven, perfect for individuals looking to escape the crowds.
3. Beulah: Hidden Gem Nestled in Pine Forests
Home to around 1,200 residents, Beulah is a serene community surrounded by dense pine forests and natural landscapes. The town offers a close-knit community feel, with local events and gatherings being a staple of life here. Outdoor activities are plentiful, including hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the nearby Pueblo Mountain Park. Beulah has minimal commercial development, and its secluded location in the mountains provides a peaceful environment away from the stresses of city life.
Where is Beulah?
Located in Pueblo County, Beulah lies southwest of Pueblo city, nestled in the foothills of the Wet Mountains. The town is accessed via winding mountain roads that enhance its hidden gem status. The surrounding forests and lack of major highways contribute to Beulah’s secluded atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the sense of peace that envelops them as they arrive, a testament to the town’s tranquil setting.
2. Silver Cliff: Historic Charm in the Wilderness
Silver Cliff has a population of approximately 600 residents and is steeped in rich mining history. The town offers a tranquil setting with stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Activities include exploring historical sites, stargazing in one of the darkest night skies in Colorado, and enjoying the local art scene. There are small businesses and local services, but no major industries, which helps maintain its quiet charm. Silver Cliff’s seclusion is enhanced by its scenic surroundings and distance from larger urban areas.
Where is Silver Cliff?
Situated in Custer County, Silver Cliff lies along State Highway 96, just east of Westcliffe. The town’s location in the Wet Mountain Valley provides natural beauty and a sense of isolation. Access is primarily via mountain roads that offer breathtaking views at every turn. The lack of nearby major cities ensures that Silver Cliff remains a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors who appreciate its historic and natural appeal.
1. Westcliffe: A Quiet Sanctuary Amidst the Peaks
Westcliffe, with a population of about 600, is a secluded mountain town offering breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring activities like hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. Local industries are centered around tourism, agriculture, and small businesses that serve the community. Westcliffe’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the expansive natural beauty that surrounds it, providing a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Westcliffe?
Located in Custer County, Westcliffe sits in the heart of the Wet Mountain Valley. The town is accessible via State Highway 69, with the nearest larger city being Pueblo, about an hour’s drive away. The isolation is accentuated by the mountain ranges that frame the valley, creating a natural barrier from the outside world. The journey to Westcliffe is filled with panoramic vistas, and upon arrival, visitors are greeted with a sense of serenity that’s unique to this secluded sanctuary.
