If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Southern Colorado offers hidden gems that I’ve found to be perfect retreats. Nestled amidst majestic mountains and vast plains, these secluded towns provide tranquility and a chance to reconnect with nature.
From spiritual oases to artistic enclaves, each town has its unique charm that beckons those seeking solitude. Join me as I count down my top ten secluded towns in Southern Colorado, places where you can truly get away from it all and discover the serene beauty of this remarkable region.
10. Bonanza: A Tiny Town Nestled in the Rockies
With a population of just a handful of residents, Bonanza holds the distinction of being one of Colorado’s smallest incorporated towns. I love exploring the remnants of its mining history, where abandoned cabins and mine shafts tell stories of a bygone era.
Surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest, Bonanza offers endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and soaking in the serenity of untouched nature. There aren’t any major industries here anymore, which adds to its quiet charm and the feeling of stepping back in time.
What makes Bonanza truly secluded is its remote setting high in the mountains, far from the noise and rush of modern life. It’s the perfect spot if you’re seeking ultimate privacy and a deep connection with the wilderness.
Where is Bonanza?
Bonanza is tucked away in the northern part of Saguache County, nestled deep in the Rocky Mountains of Southern Colorado. Its secluded location is enhanced by the surrounding national forest land, which creates a natural barrier from the outside world.
Getting there involves navigating winding mountain roads, and the nearest sizable town is hours away. This isolation ensures that Bonanza remains a hidden treasure, offering a tranquil escape that few other places can match.
9. Silver Cliff: Seclusion at High Altitude
Perched at an elevation of over 7,800 feet, Silver Cliff is home to around 600 residents who enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Wet Mountain Valley. I find the town’s history as a former silver mining hub fascinating, with remnants still visible amid the modern-day tranquility.
Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, fishing, and camping, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The primary industries have shifted from mining to tourism and agriculture, but the town maintains a quiet, small-town feel.
Silver Cliff’s seclusion is attributed to its high-altitude setting and distance from major urban centers, offering a serene environment away from crowded streets and noisy traffic.
Where is Silver Cliff?
Located in Custer County, Silver Cliff sits adjacent to its sister town, Westcliffe, in Southern Colorado. Its remote location at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains contributes to its peaceful atmosphere and stunning night skies.
The town is accessible via Highway 96, but the journey through winding mountain roads reinforces its secluded charm. For me, the drive itself is part of the allure, leading to a place where time seems to slow down, and the stresses of everyday life fade away.
8. Aguilar: Hidden History Amidst Rolling Hills
Aguilar, with a population of around 500, is a quaint town that boasts a rich history reflected in its well-preserved historic buildings. Walking down its quiet streets, I appreciate the old brick structures that harken back to its coal mining past.
Surrounded by rolling hills and expansive ranchlands, outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing are favorite pastimes here.
While agriculture and ranching are the primary industries today, the town’s seclusion stems from its location off the beaten path, away from major highways and bustling cities. Aguilar’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind in a serene, small-town setting.
Where is Aguilar?
Nestled in Las Animas County in Southern Colorado, Aguilar lies just east of the Spanish Peaks and north of the New Mexico border. Its distance from larger cities and lack of significant traffic flow contribute to its secluded nature.
To reach Aguilar, I take Interstate 25 and exit onto quiet county roads that meander through picturesque landscapes. The journey emphasizes the town’s hidden gem status, making it a tranquil retreat for anyone seeking solitude amid natural beauty.
7. Manassa: Historical Roots in a Peaceful Setting
Manassa is a small farming community with around 1,000 residents, known as the birthplace of famous boxer Jack Dempsey. I enjoy exploring its quiet streets and local museum dedicated to Dempsey’s legacy.
Agriculture is the lifeblood of Manassa, with vast fields and pastures stretching as far as the eye can see. This low housing density and the surrounding farmland contribute to the town’s secluded atmosphere.
The simplicity of life here, along with the close-knit community, makes Manassa an inviting option for those seeking peace and quiet away from urban noise.
Where is Manassa?
Located in the San Luis Valley in Southern Colorado, Manassa sits south of Alamosa and west of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Its seclusion is enhanced by the expansive valley and the lack of major highways passing through town.
I usually access Manassa via Highway 285, enjoying the open spaces and minimal traffic along the way. This rural setting, coupled with the town’s rich history and tranquil environment, offers a unique retreat from the busyness of city life.
6. Antonito: Gateway to Secluded Rail Adventures
Antonito, home to about 800 people, is a charming town that serves as the starting point for the famous Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. I’ve taken this historic steam train ride, and it’s an unforgettable journey through breathtaking mountain landscapes.
The town itself has minimal traffic and a relaxed pace, with adobe architecture reflecting its rich cultural heritage. While tourism related to the railroad is a key industry, Antonito remains quiet and uncrowded.
Its seclusion is part of its appeal, offering visitors and residents alike a peaceful environment steeped in history and natural beauty.
Where is Antonito?
Situated in Conejos County near the New Mexico border, Antonito lies along Highway 285 in Southern Colorado. Despite its location on a highway, the town experiences little through traffic, enhancing its secluded feel.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through the San Luis Valley, with expansive views that I find truly inspiring. The peaceful journey sets the tone for a visit to this hidden gem, where one can disconnect from the fast-paced world and immerse in a unique blend of culture and nature.
5. Moffat: Quiet Plains and Open Skies
With a population of just over 100, Moffat is a tiny town that epitomizes rural living amid vast open spaces. I appreciate the simplicity of life here, where the horizons seem endless and the skies are a canvas of stars at night.
The town offers a sense of community, yet the sparse population ensures privacy and tranquility. Agriculture and small-scale farming are common, but overall, Moffat remains quiet and undeveloped.
Its remote location on the plains contributes to its seclusion, making it an ideal spot for those who value peace, solitude, and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Moffat?
Located in the northern part of the San Luis Valley, Moffat sits in Saguache County in Southern Colorado. Its secluded nature is due partly to its distance from major highways and urban centers.
I usually reach Moffat via Highway 17, enjoying the expansive views of the valley and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the distance. The journey underscores the town’s isolation and the pristine beauty of its surroundings, providing a refreshing escape from the demands of city life.
4. Westcliffe: Stargazing in Peaceful Seclusion
Westcliffe, a town of about 600 people, is a sanctuary for those who love nature and the night sky. As one of the world’s few International Dark Sky Communities, I relish the unparalleled stargazing opportunities it offers.
The town is surrounded by the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, providing endless options for hiking, horseback riding, and photography. Agriculture and tourism are key industries, but Westcliffe remains uncrowded and serene.
What makes it truly secluded is its commitment to preserving the natural environment and dark skies, creating an atmosphere of peace and solitude that is hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Westcliffe?
Westcliffe is situated in Custer County, nestled in the Wet Mountain Valley of Southern Colorado. Its remote location away from major highways limits light pollution and noise, enhancing its secluded feel.
Getting there involves traveling along scenic byways, which I find adds to the sense of adventure and escape. The town’s isolation allows visitors and residents to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
3. San Luis: Colorado’s Oldest Town with Timeless Tranquility
Founded in 1851, San Luis holds the title of Colorado’s oldest continuously inhabited town, with a population of around 700. I enjoy strolling through its historic streets, where adobe buildings and the iconic La Capilla de Todos Los Santos reflect its rich cultural heritage.
The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, with art galleries and local eateries adding to its charm. Agriculture remains a primary industry, and the low population density contributes to its rustic appeal.
San Luis’s seclusion is enhanced by the unspoiled landscapes that surround it, offering a tranquil retreat steeped in history and natural beauty.
Where is San Luis?
San Luis is located in Costilla County in the San Luis Valley of Southern Colorado, near the New Mexico border. Its remote setting, away from major urban areas, accentuates its secluded character.
I usually access the town via Highway 159, enjoying the stunning views of the valley and distant peaks. The journey underscores the town’s isolation, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a quiet getaway immersed in culture and scenic vistas.
2. La Veta: Artistic Charm in Secluded Surroundings
La Veta, with around 800 residents, is a haven for artists and those who appreciate a creative, laid-back lifestyle. I love exploring its galleries and studios that line the quaint Main Street, showcasing works inspired by the area’s natural beauty.
Nestled in the shadow of the Spanish Peaks, outdoor activities like hiking and fishing are readily accessible. The town has a few local businesses and relies on tourism and art for its economy.
La Veta’s seclusion comes from its location away from larger cities, providing a peaceful atmosphere where the pace of life is refreshingly slow.
Where is La Veta?
Situated in Huerfano County along Highway 12, known as the scenic Highway of Legends, La Veta is tucked into the foothills of the Spanish Peaks in Southern Colorado. Its remote location amid rugged landscapes enhances its secluded feel.
Driving here involves winding roads that I find both beautiful and calming, reinforcing the sense of escape from the usual hustle. La Veta’s distance from major highways and urban centers makes it a tranquil destination for those seeking artistic inspiration and natural serenity.
1. Crestone: A Spiritual Oasis in the Mountains
Crestone, with a population of around 140, tops my list as a unique and profoundly peaceful place. Nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the town is a renowned spiritual center, home to various religious and spiritual communities.
I find the atmosphere here incredibly serene, with meditation centers, temples, and retreats offering spaces for reflection and growth. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore untouched wilderness through hiking and camping in the nearby national forest.
There are few industries, with the community focusing on sustainability and spirituality. Crestone’s seclusion is amplified by its remote mountain setting, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature and self.
Where is Crestone?
Located in Saguache County in Southern Colorado, Crestone sits at the northern end of the San Luis Valley. Its isolation is due to its location at the end of a county road, surrounded by vast wilderness and the towering peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range.
Reaching Crestone involves a drive through expansive valley landscapes that I always find breathtaking and humbling. The town’s remoteness and the pristine environment contribute to its reputation as a spiritual haven and a place of profound tranquility.
