The Central Rocky Mountains are a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations, these secluded towns offer a peaceful retreat into nature’s embrace. Each town boasts its unique charm, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, making them perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure. Join us as we count down the ten most secluded towns in the Central Rockies, uncovering the secrets that make each one a must-visit destination.
10. Creede, Colorado: Drama in the Mountains
With a population of around 300 residents, Creede is a small town that offers big experiences. Nestled between dramatic cliffs, it provides a stunning backdrop that has inspired artists and photographers alike. The Creede Repertory Theatre brings a touch of culture to the mountains, offering performances that draw audiences from afar. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Bachelor Loop Historic Tour, showcasing the town’s rich mining history amidst breathtaking scenery. The primary industries here are tourism and the arts, keeping the town vibrant despite its size. Creede’s secluded nature is due to its location at the end of a canyon, surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest, which gives it an isolated and tranquil atmosphere.
Where is Creede, Colorado?
Creede is located in Mineral County in southwestern Colorado, nestled in the San Juan Mountains. Its secluded setting is enhanced by the rugged terrain and limited access roads. The town is reached via Highway 149, part of the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, which winds through the mountains and offers spectacular views. This remote location means that Creede is free from heavy traffic and large crowds, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking solitude. The nearest major city is Alamosa, about 85 miles to the southeast, ensuring that Creede remains a peaceful mountain retreat.
9. Silverton, Colorado: A Hidden Alpine Paradise
Silverton, home to approximately 600 people, is a secluded alpine town that feels untouched by time. Accessible via the scenic Million Dollar Highway, the journey to Silverton is an adventure in itself. The town’s historic downtown is a National Historic Landmark, filled with well-preserved buildings that harken back to its mining heyday. Activities abound for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, off-road adventures, and skiing at the nearby Silverton Mountain. Tourism and outdoor recreation are the main industries, supporting a community that values preservation of its natural and historic treasures. Silverton’s high elevation and surrounding peaks create a sense of isolation, making it a haven for those looking to escape into nature.
Where is Silverton, Colorado?
Situated in San Juan County in southwestern Colorado, Silverton lies at an elevation of over 9,300 feet. The town is encircled by the San Juan Mountains, contributing to its secluded feel. Access is primarily via U.S. Route 550, known as the Million Dollar Highway, which connects Silverton to Ouray and Durango through treacherous yet breathtaking mountain passes. The remote location and challenging routes deter heavy traffic, maintaining Silverton’s tranquility. The historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad also offers a unique and scenic way to reach the town, further enhancing its charm and seclusion.
8. Fairplay, Colorado: The Real South Park
Fairplay is a quaint town with a population of about 750 people, offering a genuine taste of Colorado’s high country. As the inspiration for the fictional town in the “South Park” series, Fairplay is rich in history and local color without the buzz of commercial tourism. Visitors can explore the South Park City Museum, an open-air restoration of a 19th-century mining town with over 40 historic buildings. Outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and camping are plentiful in the surrounding wilderness. The main industries are tourism and ranching, keeping the community closely tied to the land. Fairplay’s open landscapes and elevation of 9,953 feet give it a secluded atmosphere where the vast skies and mountain vistas dominate the senses.
Where is Fairplay, Colorado?
Located in Park County in central Colorado, Fairplay sits in the basin of the Rocky Mountains known as South Park. The town is accessible via U.S. Highway 285, about an hour and a half drive southwest from Denver. Its seclusion is partly due to the expansive high-altitude plains that surround it, creating natural barriers and a sense of remoteness. The journey to Fairplay takes travelers through mountain passes and rolling hills, reinforcing the feeling of entering a tranquil and isolated region. Despite its relative proximity to urban areas, Fairplay remains a peaceful enclave away from the bustle of city life.
7. Georgetown, Colorado: A Victorian Secret
Georgetown, with a population close to 1,000, is a hidden gem known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Once a booming silver mining town, it now offers a glimpse into Colorado’s rich past. The Georgetown Loop Railroad provides a historic train experience through stunning mountain scenery and over a towering trestle bridge. The main industries are tourism and historical preservation, ensuring the town maintains its charming character. Nestled in a narrow mountain valley, Georgetown feels secluded despite its accessibility, offering a peaceful retreat with a touch of elegance.
Where is Georgetown, Colorado?
Located in Clear Creek County, Georgetown is just off Interstate 70, about 45 miles west of Denver. The town’s placement at the base of towering mountains and its position in a narrow valley contribute to its secluded ambiance. Access involves a descent into the valley, with the surrounding peaks creating a natural enclosure. While it’s conveniently located for travelers, the town’s historic district and lack of modern sprawl make it feel worlds apart from the nearby highway. Georgetown serves as a serene stopover for those journeying through the Rockies or a quiet destination in its own right.
6. Victor, Colorado: The City of Mines
Victor is a small town with around 400 residents, steeped in gold mining history. It’s often referred to as “the City of Mines,” with its streets lined with historic buildings that tell tales of a bygone era. Visitors can explore the Victor Lowell Thomas Museum, named after the famous journalist, and embark on walking tours to see mines that are still operational today. Mining remains a key industry, alongside tourism that celebrates the town’s heritage. Perched at nearly 10,000 feet elevation, Victor’s location on the southwestern slope of Pikes Peak contributes to its seclusion, offering sweeping views and a genuine Old West atmosphere.
Where is Victor, Colorado?
Victor is located in Teller County in central Colorado, accessible via State Highway 67. It’s about a one-hour drive from Colorado Springs, but the winding mountain roads and dramatic scenery make it feel more remote. The town is tucked away amidst forested hills and towering peaks, with limited routes in and out. This isolation preserves Victor’s quiet charm and makes it a perfect destination for those seeking to step back in time and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.
5. Silver Plume, Colorado: Echoes of the Silver Rush
Silver Plume is a tiny town of approximately 200 people, offering a snapshot of Colorado’s silver mining past. The town’s well-preserved Victorian-era buildings and narrow, historic streets create a nostalgic ambiance. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the 7:30 Mine trail, leading to remnants of old mines with panoramic views. The primary industry is heritage tourism, focusing on the town’s rich history. Situated in a steep and narrow part of Clear Creek Canyon, Silver Plume’s setting contributes to its seclusion, making it a peaceful enclave where history comes alive.
Where is Silver Plume, Colorado?
Located in Clear Creek County, Silver Plume is just off Interstate 70, about 47 miles west of Denver. Despite this proximity, the town’s tucked-away position in a deep canyon gives it a hidden quality. The steep canyon walls and limited space for development have preserved its historic character. Access is straightforward via I-70, but the exit leads into a different world where the pace slows, and the echoes of the silver rush can almost be heard. Silver Plume offers a quiet retreat within easy reach of the city, yet feels remarkably secluded.
4. Redstone, Colorado: The Ruby of the Rockies
Redstone is a picturesque village with around 130 residents, known for its vivid red sandstone cliffs and historic charm. The town features the famous Osgood Castle, also known as Redstone Castle, a stunning mansion built in the early 1900s. Visitors can enjoy the Redstone Art Gallery, stroll along the Crystal River, or relax in the peaceful mountain setting. Tourism and art are the main industries, with a focus on preserving the natural and historical beauty of the area. Redstone’s secluded feel comes from its small size and the surrounding wilderness, offering a tranquil escape from the modern world.
Where is Redstone, Colorado?
Situated in Pitkin County, Redstone is located along State Highway 133, approximately 18 miles south of Carbondale. The village is nestled in the Crystal River Valley, surrounded by the White River National Forest. Its location away from major highways and urban centers enhances its seclusion. Access involves a scenic drive through mountain passes, with the towering red cliffs signaling your arrival in this hidden gem. The serene environment and limited development make Redstone a perfect destination for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
3. Lake City, Colorado: Where Serenity Meets the Peaks
Lake City is a remote town with a population of about 400, offering serenity amidst some of Colorado’s highest peaks. The town’s well-preserved 19th-century architecture adds to its charm, making it a living museum of the mining era. Visitors can enjoy fishing in Lake San Cristobal, hiking the surrounding mountains, or exploring the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. Tourism centered on outdoor recreation is the main industry, attracting those who appreciate unspoiled natural beauty. Lake City’s secluded location in a high mountain valley provides a peaceful atmosphere far removed from busy tourist areas.
Where is Lake City, Colorado?
Located in Hinsdale County in southwestern Colorado, Lake City is accessible via State Highway 149. The town is nestled in the San Juan Mountains, surrounded by wilderness areas that limit development and access. Its seclusion is amplified by the fact that Hinsdale County is one of the least densely populated counties in the contiguous United States. Reaching Lake City involves traveling through high mountain passes with breathtaking views, reinforcing the sense of remoteness. This isolation makes Lake City a haven for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
2. Rico, Colorado: A Hidden Mountain Sanctuary
Rico is a small town of around 200 residents, tucked away in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Rich in mining history, Rico offers untouched landscapes and a peaceful environment. Visitors can explore historic mine sites, hike through dense forests, and soak in nearby natural hot springs. The main industries are limited, focusing on sustainable tourism and preserving the pristine environment. Rico’s seclusion is due to its location amid vast wilderness and minimal development, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a tranquil retreat for visitors.
Where is Rico, Colorado?
Located in Dolores County in southwestern Colorado, Rico lies along State Highway 145, part of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway. The town is situated between Telluride to the north and Dolores to the south, yet remains off the beaten path. The surrounding mountains and forests create natural barriers that contribute to its secluded feel. Access involves winding mountain roads that offer stunning views but require a deliberate journey. Rico’s remote location ensures it remains a hidden sanctuary, ideal for those looking to escape into nature.
1. Marble, Colorado: The Town Sculpted from Stone
Marble is a tiny town with a population of about 140, renowned for its historic marble quarry that supplied stone for the Lincoln Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The iconic Crystal Mill, a historic wooden powerhouse perched above Crystal River, is a major attraction and one of the most photographed sites in Colorado. Outdoor activities include hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby wilderness areas like the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The main industries are small-scale marble quarrying and tourism. Marble’s secluded location, nestled in a valley and surrounded by peaks, provides a peaceful atmosphere where nature’s beauty is on full display.
Where is Marble, Colorado?
Marble is located in Gunnison County in central Colorado, accessible via County Road 3 off State Highway 133. The town sits along the Crystal River, surrounded by the Elk Mountains. Its seclusion is enhanced by the rugged terrain and limited access roads, with the nearest larger town being Carbondale, 30 miles to the north. Reaching Marble involves a scenic drive through mountain valleys and along riverbanks, contributing to the feeling of remoteness. The breathtaking landscapes and lack of commercialization make Marble a hidden treasure sculpted by both nature and history.
