Best Colorado Small Mountain Towns (population 5,000 and under)

One of my favorite things about exploring Colorado is visiting small mountain towns. Mountain views and good company set the vibe for tranquility and your next adventure.

My love of small towns comes from childhood nostalgia. I grew up on a farm in Iowa near a small town, with a population of 2,700. I was the classic teenager who couldn’t wait to leave the country and move to a big city.

I’d been coming to Colorado for over a decade, living in Omaha Nebraska for awhile, and Phoenix, Arizona where I met my husband and we moved to Colorado Springs at the end of 2022. I love the size of Colorado Springs but I still crave getting out of the city and into the mountains regularly.

It makes me laugh when people tell me they are from a “small” town and I learn more about the size, some people consider 10,000 or even up to 30,000 to be small towns. Would you see cows comfortable crossing the road in traffic in a town with that many people? That’s not my definition of a small town!

Colorado has a casual dress code, no need to impress in a small mountain town. When hitting up a brewery after a long hike or a soak in the hot springs, you are sure to meet a new friend or two who is sun-kissed and smiling, sporting wet hair or muddy clothing from their day of adventures. If you are dressed up for a night out in the city, you will be out of place in a Colorado small mountain town.

The sunset viewing time is a bit shorter in Colorado so take time to enjoy it where you can. The tall mountains in Colorado will make neighborhoods seem extra dark earlier if you aren’t used to it. I recommend planning your travel time accordingly, especially if you aren’t familiar with the area.

My husband and I love hiking and relaxing in hot springs and are on a mission to try as many as possible. We are intentional about supporting local businesses and you can often find a unique treasure in the small town shops. We like craft beer, coffee, or ice cream and the occasional meal, especially seek out locally sourced food in small mountain towns.

Here are my highlights from visiting small mountain towns in Colorado with around 5,000 people or less according to the 2020 Census Bureau. Hopefully, you will learn something new and be inspired to add one or two of them or more to your next Colorado adventure.

Short on time: You can skip ahead to view my Quick Guide to choosing the best small Colorado mountain town at the end of the article.

1. Victor (population 379)

Victor may be a less-known small mountain town, but it won my heart on my first visit. Victor is about an hour and a half from Colorado Springs and the drive there is a breath of fresh air. The elevation climbs to 9,703 feet so the temperature is noticeably cooler and refreshing.

Victor, like many other Colorado towns, has a long-preserved mining history. There is an active gold mine outside Victor that employs many locals in the surrounding area. Of all the old mining towns in Colorado, you can really feel the history here throughout the town on a different level here.

Victor was chosen as the destination for Colorado’s second wooden troll sculpted by artist Thomas Dambo who created Rita the Rock Planter in 2023. Since then, traffic to Victor and its popularity and its population have grown. We visited the first month Rita was ready for visitors and have a separate post on all you need to know to plan a visit to Rita the Rock Planter.

Victor and Cripple Creek Narrow Gauge Railroad in nearby Cripple Creek is another highlight in the area. Discover more of the mining history and the beautiful surroundings by open car train giving tours from May through October. The ride starts and ends from Cripple Creek.

There is a natural spring right outside town with fresh mountain spring water if you need refreshment for your hike. Locate the spring on findaspring.org, the Teller County Spring.

Another thing in the area to plan for your trip if you are looking for a scenic drive is Phantom Canyon Road. The drive starts in Victor and will take you down to Canyon City, the location of the Royal Gorge.

Phantom Canyon Road was previously the railroad that traveled between the two cities in the Gold Rush Era until it washed out during heavy flooding and it was too dangerous and expensive to replace.

4W drive is recommended, but a car can make it through. Plan this scenic drive during the day and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the views before dark. It makes an excellent drive for Colorado fall foliage.

2. Grand Lake (population 410)

This small mountain town is centered around its alpine lake, which is at an elevation of 8,367 feet and borders the Western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Grand Lake is the largest and deepest natural body of water in Colorado with over 4 miles of shoreline for all your favorite water activities year-round. You can swim, paddle board, fish, kayak, or boat on the lake, with rentals available at the marina. My husband went paddle boarding here frequently when he lived in Golden, CO.

If you want to stay out of the water, take a walk around the historic boardwalk with many shops and restaurants. We enjoyed lunch here at the World’s End Brewery.

For dessert, there is an adorable ice cream shop near the lake with summer treats. Ceaira’s Sweet Shop offers soft-serve ice cream, snow cones, bubble lemonade, cookies, coffee, and more.

Grand Lake is a destination for the 4th of July or New Year’s to watch fireworks over the lake.

Grand Lake is a nice place for a couple to visit but it is also an excellent family-friendly location for large families or family reunions. Check out our findings on the Best Vacation Rentals for Families in Grand Lake to help plan your next family vacation.

3. Winter Park (population 1,033)

Winter Park is a picturesque ski resort town but there is so much more to do here than ski. Winter Park is a mountain bikers paradise with Winter Park Resort, Trestle Bike Park, and nearly 600 miles of trails in the area, Winter Park is known as Mountain Bike Capital USA. Winter Park is a year-round destination.

Winter Park Village holds many festivals and events along with regular shopping and restaurants. You can slide down the alpine slide, play mini-golf, hike, or ride the scenic gondola. The gazebo area sets the stage for a summer concert and the lake transforms into an ice-skating rink in the winter.

4. Georgetown (population 1,118)

Georgetown is a small old mining town about 45 minutes west of Denver just off the I70. Georgetown is an ideal destination for those staying in Denver who want to explore more of Colorado without a long drive or overnight stay.

A highlight in Georgetown is the Georgetown Loop Train, a narrow gauge railroad dating back to 1880. A train ride is an authentic way to explore the beauty of the Colorado Rockies and experience the mining history here. Experience a Victorian Holiday Celebration such as Santa’s Rocky Mountain Adventure, Santa’s Lighted Forrest, and other special events depending on what time of year you visit.

One of the first hikes I did in Colorado was near Georgetown on a girl’s trip in 2015, long before I had a hint that I would be living in Colorado. One of the coolest things about hiking in Colorado is the alpine lakes.

Georgetown and Idaho Springs are the closest and most convenient small mountain towns to visit from Denver or traveling on the I70. And if you have time to travel further add in Frisco. It does take a bit longer to get out to Keystone on Loveland Pass, but it’s worth it.

5. Keystone (population 1,369)

Keystone is a destination for skiing in the winter and there are many hiking trails. Keystone is a smaller and less crowded mountain town than Breckenridge, a twenty-minute drive away.

Keystone has two scenic gondolas that operate in the summer and winter. Enjoy a meal or drink with an amazing views at 8,290 feet. at the Summit House restaurant.

Loveland Pass is the highest mountain pass in the world staying open during the winter. Although it is a very treacherous road, even in clear conditions, it makes it more accessible than some other skiing areas during the winter.

There is also a freshwater spring in the Keystone area known by locals and truck drivers who regularly travel the area.

6. Nederland (population 1,471)

Nederland will always hold a special place for us as this is where my husband, Jorge proposed to me after planning a picnic by the lake. We stopped in this small mountain town on several occasions while Jorge was living in Golden and we would drive to Ward to get spring water.

Recently, in the summer of 2023, we took my parents on a little trip to the place where we got engaged. The picnic tables on the trail were no longer there, but regardless it is a peaceful place to visit for a walk just outside the town by Barker Resevoir.

Nederland is a walkable small town with plenty of unique stores, restaurants, and coffee shops to keep you entertained. A few of my favorites are The Alpaca Store and More and Sue’s Sweets.

One of our other favorite places in this area, a few miles from Nederland on Highway 119, is Howlin Winds Brewery, located in an unincorporated town called Rollinsville. There is no reliable cell phone reception here, and the mountain community consists of only a few businesses. This is a worthwhile stop if you like out-of-the-way breweries and live music.

7. Pagosa Springs (population 1,571)

It’s a beautiful drive to Pagosa Springs from Wolf Creek Pass (US 160) with the San Juan River running along the road. The road closer to Pagosa has a hairpin turn you see many signs about and runaway trucker ramps. If mountain roads make you nervous, you are at least given miles of warnings.

The San Juan River is the highlight of Pagosa Springs with many water activities in the area.

Pagosa Springs is a wellness destination, known for its healing waters, the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring.  The Mother Spring that feeds the springs’ pools has been unmeasurable so far, holding the Guinness World record.

There are 3 hot springs you can visit: Healing Waters Resort and Spa, Overlook Spa, and The Springs Resort. USA Today awarded The Springs Resort the number-one Spa Resort in the US in 2023. There’s also Nathan’s Hippy Dippy Hot Springs, a free destination locals love, and many other massage and wellness centers.

Hot springs have become one of my favorite things in Colorado, but the water here in Pagosa Springs is special! The water has a high sulphur content which comes with a strong smell but I felt amazing after our short time at Overlook Spa and I can’t wait to return!

Read more on the Best Places to Stay in Pagosa Springs for Skiing & Relaxing here:

8. Crested Butte (population 1,639)

Crested Butte is my husband Jorge’s favorite small mountain town in Colorado and one of the most underrated. Jorge mentions going back to Crested Butte all the time, while I talk about Telluride (#12). These two and Apsen are the only towns we haven’t been to together in Colorado.

Crested Butte is a bit of a drive and there is a stretch of dirt road when you get closer. The road is flat so you don’t need 4WD in the summer.

Crested Butte is on Jorge’s list for winter snowboarding destinations. He spent time there during warm weather to mountain bike and enjoyed breathtaking views of the mountains.

Most of the accomodations in Crested Butte are resorts and there are limited private vacation rentals in this area. The resorts are located at the top of the mountain and there are several biking paths leading to the downtown area at the base. Jorge stayed at the Grand Lodge.

Crested Butte downtown area is a quaint spot with a variety of restaurants including two breweries and a distillery: Montanya Distillers: High Mountain Rum. Shuttle buses are available to take you back up the hill so you can get back at the end of the day without biking up the steep mountain in the dark.

Jorge biked the Lupine Trail and still dreams of going back to experience the views in the area.

Crested Butte is recognized as the Wildflower Capitol of Colorado with over 1,500 species of flowers growing here. I discover new pretty wildflowers all the time on hikes in Colorado. Crested Butte Wildflower Festival is on my bucket list and I look forward to spending time in this charming mountain town!

9. Idaho Springs (population 1,782)

Idaho Springs was another Gold Rush Era mining town just a short drive from Denver, a great companion to visiting Georgetown both off the I70.

My favorite thing about Idaho Springs is the quaint main street area. Several blocks are roped off from traffic and you can walk through the shops and restaurants with many outdoor dining options. Parking is available in the side streets and lots.

The Frothy Cup is a German coffee shop and bakery that commonly has a line out to the door. Check out the pastries from Edelweis Pastery Shop, a mom-and-pop European bakery.

Popular hot springs in the area are Indian Hot Springs which has a large indoor pool area with botanical garden vibes and geothermal caves you can soak in.

This is not my favorite hot springs as I prefer the more natural springs and chlorine is added here. It does make an option for all seasons since it is indoors and the tropical vacation vibe is unique for Colorado.

You can also plan a drive up Mt. Evans (renamed Mount Blue Skye) from here. Pike’s Peak and Mt. Evans are the only two 14ers in Colorado you can drive to the top. Mt. Evans/Blue Sky is the highest paved road in North America. Add this to your bucket list for 2026, this road is closed as of September 3, 2024 through 2025 for construction.

10. Grandby (population 1,782)

Grandy is a cute mountain town with country charm near Grand Lake and the Western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Lake Grandby is great for fishing and is generally less crowded than Grand Lake. There are also camping sites near Lake Grandby.

If you are planning to visit Rocky Mountain National Park and visit hot springs, Grandby is an ideal home base for your trip. Historical Hot Sulphur Springs Resort and Spa which dates back to 1840, is the closest hot springs just on the border of Grandby. You can stay at the resort, reserve a private pool for an hour soak, or do the general admission with no reservation required.

Hot Sulphur Springs has 20 pools to soak in and all but one are natural with the main pool having chlorine added. These springs are kid-friendly and there are 8 adult-only pool options.

11. Lyons (population 2,209)

Lyons is an underratedsmall mountain town that I would love to spend more time in. We passed through here without much time to spare, but there are lots of reasons to go back and spen time here.

Lyons is a short drive north of Boulder and is located on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park. Visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park can use the public bus service to access the park through the Ride transit hub.

Lyons has many options for good food and small locally owned businesses. According to the town website, 97% of the businesses along the historic downtown area are independently owned.

Lyons is a bike-friendly town, beginning with several trails nearby that lead you into the Rockies.

St. Vrain Creek flows through the heart of Lyons. Its waters in the area offer recreational enjoyment through tubing, kayaking, and fishing.

Lyons is home to several public art sculptures, live music, music festivals, and seasonal events like the annual October Spooktacular parade and a winter artisan market and parade of lights in December.

12. Telluride (population 2,607)

Telluride is known for skiing, but the town on its own is charming and magical. Telluride gives you a Swiss Alps feeling in a different way than its nearby gem, Ouray, the Switzerland of America. Both of them are some of my favorite small mountain towns; it’s hard to choose which I like more.

My friend Steph convinced me to come to Colorado in the fall of 2020 to explore the San Juan area and visit Telluride. This trip made me fall in love with Colorado, especially because. I was living in Arizona then and hadn’t experienced real fall foilage in a few years.

Fall is the perfect time to visit Telluride for aspen trees and fall foliage. If you are just visiting for the day, park in the Gondola Parking Garage in Mountain Village and ride the gondola into Telluride. It’s an amazing way to view the town for the first time. (Thank you for planning this Steph!)

From the gondola, you’ll arrive at Ore Station. Telluride is a walkable town, 12 blocks long and 8 blocks wide with lots of restaurants, souvenir shops, and boutiques. Telluride is also home to many art festivals and outdoor markets.

Bridal Veil Falls, an iconic waterfall, is the tallest freefalling waterfall in Colorado you can hike or bike to view it. You really can’t go wrong with any of the amazing trails near Telluride. There are many water activities available in the nearby San Miguel River.

Off-roading is also popular in this beautiful scenic area, with majestic views and 14,000+ feet passes. Black Bear Road is a notorious jeep trail near Telluride and a few others like Ophir Pass, and Tomboy Road which was previously an old mining road between Telluride and Ouray. We didn’t have an off-road vehicle but we were able to catch the sunset from Lost Dollar Road on our drive back to Ouray where we stayed.

Telluride is on my bucket list of small mountain towns to go back to in the fall with my husband who has not been there yet. Telluride is a romantic destination for couples who like to ski on a winter getaway.

Best Things to do and Places to Stay in Telluride for Couples Adventures and Relaxing

13. Leadville (population 2,633)

Leadville is at an elevation of 10,152 feet above sea level, the highest incorporated city in Colorado and the United States. Leadville is surrounded by fourteeners, so 360-degree mountain views are abundant from the main street and throughout the town. I spent two days here on a girls’ trip with my high school friends in October 2024.

There are several unique and legendary restaurants and stores in Leadville. Quincy’s old-fashioned steakhouse is a tradition open daily only for dinner serving filet mignon during the week and prime rib on the weekends. Two-Mile Brewing Co. is America’s Highest brewery.

For coffee, Zero Day Coffee is a quaint shop in a Victorian-style house on a side street where you can relax like you are on your front porch. We also tried City on a Hill Coffee, which had pastry and breakfast options and a steady long line out the door. I enjoyed the brick historical building and Colorado paintings and artwork. It seemed like a great local hangout with comfy couches and an accessible drip coffee selection with an honor system to avoid the line.

Treeline Kitchen is a locally owned family business in the historical Sayer-McKee building on the main street with a nice outdoor dining space, cozy firepit, and rooftop bar. An excellent place for locally sourced food for dinner or a nice stop for cocktails and dessert.

A well-known locally owned store in Leadville is Melanzana, a Colorado classic. They sell quality original outdoor clothing that is made to last and perfect for your next active adventure in Colorado.

Everything Melanzana sells is custom-made here in Leadville by the local team and can only be purchased in-store by appointment. Check out the Melanzana website for more details. You can stop by to look at the clothing and see the sewers in action. They have socks, hats, and occasionally a small variety of overstock vintage items you can purchase without reservation.

Just outside Leadville is Turquoise Lake, a serene place for fishing, boating, hiking, and enjoying time in nature. There are also several campsites here and picnic tables by the lake. Turquoise Lake is a beautiful place to disconnect and rejuvenate. I look forward to coming here again!

14. Buena Vista (population 2,855)

Buena Vista is one of my favorite small moutaintowns within driving distance of Colorado Springs. The drive is beautiful and you can see the edge of the collegic peaks in the distance as you get closer on Highway 24. The Collegiate Peaks are a section of the Sawatch range of the Rocky Mountains. A few in this area are Princeton, Yale, Harvard, and Columbia.

One of my favorite places to visit in the Buena Vista area is Mt. Prinston Hot Springs Resort located in the mountains with serene views. No reservations are required and it’s a great place for families or couples.

You can also soak directly in the river here for a natural hot springs experience. The water is on the shallow side – only about a foot in most places. On weekends it can be crowded, but once you find a good spot, it’s very relaxing!

The lower level has the original Historic Bathhouse with two public pools and the riverside area. One of the pools has an entrance right from the bathhouse and the other has a volleyball net and is more rowdy. The upper level is newer and has an infinity pool and water slide. This is a great area for families with children.

For guests staying at the resort or if you book a massage at the spa, you get access to a private larger pool and a few smaller pools at different temperatures.

Cottonwood Hot Springs is another hot spring in the area that is one of Colorado’s natural hot springs. It is much smaller and low-key and also does not require reservations. Photography is prohibited in the soaking area which keeps it private and relaxing.

At Cottonwood, you soak in natural pools structured with rocks with water of different temperatures. I like that they also have a hot sauna and a natural cold plunge in the river running at the back. Braving the cold temperatures is worth it for the benefits after. We did cold plunges here in April when the river was fresh with melting snow.

There is no shortage of amazing hikes in the area. You don’t have to do a 14er to get an amazing view!

15. Frisco (population 2,982)

Frisco is another underrated small mountain town with lots to do in all seasons. We’ve driven through here a lot before finally stopping to take in the scenery. One of the best things about Frisco is the location for hiking, skiing, and enjoying the water. Frisco Bay Marina on Lake Dillon is a highlight for water lovers and a cute downtown area.

The”Main Street of the Rockies” Frisco makes a great home base for a ski trip with several options for ski resorts within range including Copper Mountain, Vail, Keystone, and Breckenridge.

Check out the Best Vacation Rentals in Frisco here:

Frisco is in close range to several well known14ers that have easier ratings for hiking. Grays Peak and Torreys Peak are within an hour and Quandry Peak is a bit over that.

16. Ouray (population 4,874)

Ouray is famous as “the Switzerland of America.” Ouray ranks as one of my favorite quaint mountain towns in Colorado. The only downside is that it is so far away. Ouray County is the gateway to the San Juan Skyway or the Million Dollar Highway, one of the most scenic drives in Colorado that goes from Silverton to Ouray.

Ouray Hot Springs is family-friendly and located on the main highway in Ouray. The hot springs are odorless and sulfur-free. Water flows through to the springs from Box Canyon into 5 pools of different temperature ranges from 74 to 106 degrees.

In nearby Ridgeway, Orvis Hot Springs is a clothing-optional resort and spa with ten hot spring options: 3 indoor and 7 outdoor including a Lobster Pot at 108-114 degrees and a cold plunge at 64 degrees. Bathing suits are required in the indoor pool from 9am-7pm.

You can purchase a day pass if you don’t plan to spend the night but want to soak in Orvis Hot Springs. Guests lodging overnight at the resort have all-day access to the hot springs and amenities including cozy hooded robes and access to their towels and beverages.

Ouray is a great place to visit for all ages. Jorge and I stopped in Ouray for coffee in the process of moving him to Colorado but we didn’t have time to explore like on my other trip. Ouray makes a great spot for a couple’s getaway. Check out the top stays for couples I’ve located of Best Places for Couples to Stay in Ouray.

17. Manitou Springs (population 4,858)

Manitou Springs is a suburb of Colorado Springs but it has such a small-town feel almost like its own little world. Manitou Springs is an eclectic, artsy, charming town with many things to do. Manitou Springs is built into the mountains and is a very walkable town to explore for all ages.

Manitou Springs has a lot of great shops and restaurants. and you never know what you might find here. Manitou is home to one of the best Big Foot Stores and many cute & unique shops and restaurants.

Fountain Creek which runs through near Manitou Avenue creates a calm and scenic vibe. There are benches to sit and relax and cute parks. You can also taste the spring water from 8 springs, all with different mineral content.

Some of Colorado’s most popular, well-known activities are located here. You can ride the Cog Railway up Pikes Peak or hike the iconic stairs of the Manitou Incline. Colorado’s famous Garden of the Gods is just across the street, a short drive from Manitou Springs.

For families visiting the area, check out our recommendations on the 45 Best Things for Families to Do in Colorado Springs.

The Manitou Incline or “The Incline” is a challenging hike that starts at the base across the street from the Cog Rail. You are climbing 2,768 steps at high elevation, gaining 2,011 feet of elevation in .88 of a mile with an average grade of 45%.

All ages and fitness levels can do this hike, the key is in preparation and knowing yourself. This hike is both physical and mental. There are three bail-out trails on the way and you should take them if you need to.

For more detailed information and tips to plan for your hike check out our Complete Guide for Hiking the Manitou Incline from a Local.

We are frequent visitors to Sunwater Spa, the closest hot springs to Colorado Springs where you can soak in cedar tubs with views of surrounding mountains. You must make reservations in advance for up to 4 people in a tub.

Aside from your private tub, you can also use the shared hot sauna, and indoor pool with a few different temperatures and two cold plunges. If you reserve far enough in advance, book Mary’s Mountain, the only private tube with your own sauna located higher on the hill away from the other tubs and the best view.

Manitou Springs is our favorite place to visit as locals. I wrote a separate article for couples on all our favorite places and Best Things for Couples to Do in Manitou Springs.

Manitou Springs’ location makes a great home base while visiting the Colorado Springs area. Check out the Best Airbnbs to stay in Manitou Springs for Families.

Bonus: Best Colorado Mountain Towns a Bit Larger…

After researching the actual reported size of the towns, I was surprised that Estes Park has outgrown my “small town” definition requirements. I’ve added a few extras I really enjoy that also give you a Colorado small-town mountain vibe but are a ittlle over 5000.

18. Breckenridge (population 5,078)

Breckenridge is a well-known Colorado town that you don’t want to miss! Breckenridge gives you a European mountain town feeling while staying close to Denver.

Breckenridge Brewery is a highlight for beer and really good food! It’s a great spot to relax after a day of skiing or hiking in the area.

Breckenridge is home to Colorado’s original and first wooden troll: Isak Heartstone. The artist, Thomas Dambo from Denmark, has constructed trolls in Denmark, the US, and several other countries worldwide. Isak is located in the forest on the Trollstigen Trail near an ice-skating rink in Breckenridge.

Breckenridge is also a great location for large groups such as a friend vacation or a large family reunion. The location near Denver offers a lot of easy transportation options to get there. You can be close to a lot of really awesome things to do and still get the small-town charm vibes.

Best Luxury Airbnbs for families in Breckenridge

Best Airbns for Couples Hiking, Sking, & Relaxing in Breckenridge

19. Salida (5,666)

Salida is one of the closest skiing destinations from Colorado Springs to Monarch Mountain. There are also plenty of water activities here on the Arkansas River in this mountain town.

The S on the mountain and the river walk were a highlight of our visit to Salida. We visited late fall when the weather was cool but just right for a nice walk to explore. There weren’t too many people out and about but it was easy to visualize what a popular destination it is in season for many water activities.

I had an amazing peanut butter and jelly beer at a brewery Tres Litros in downtown Salida…it was likely a special batch that might not be available now but I still think about it and am willing to make the drive just for that!

Visiting Salida and staying the night, check out our Top 7 Airbnbs in Salida.

The closest hot springs to Salida are found north of here in Buena Vista: Cottonwood Hot Springs and Mt. Prinston or by traveling south to Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa.

20. Estes Park (5,904)

Estes Park is the Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. This is a beautiful summer destination especially if you like the water. Outdoor adventures are unlimited here and you will surely encounter wildlife.

My first visit to Estes Park was on a day trip adventure my husband planned while we were in the long-distance phase of our relationship. He lived in Golden, and I was still in Arizona. We enjoyed a picnic by the lake, taking in the surroundings. We got to observe a beautiful herd of elk taking a dip in the water and hear the majestic elk bugle.

Estes Park has a nice downtown area if you have time to meander, if you are looking for a quick stop for coffee like I was on our day trip, it is not going to be quick unless you are lucky. There is a shuttle system in place to help with the traffic flow as they are working to improve access to the park, you can read more about that here to plan a trip. Estes Park is great for nature, but due to the construction, you’ll need to plan and have some patience for exploring downtown.

Estes Park is another great destination for large groups or a family reunion trip. There are many options here to host your family in an Airbnb from 16 to 24 guests. Plan your family trip with the Best Vacation Rentals in Estes Park for Large Families.

Estes Park is also a destination for a romantic mountain getaway. I can think of at least two couples in my friend group from Nebraska who celebrated their honeymoon in Estes Park. For couples, check out our best finds for Romantic Cabins in Estes Park.

21. Aspen (7,004)

Aspen is the largest town on this list. Not only is Aspen one of the top skiing destinations in the state, but the famous and most photographed place in Colorado is located here, the Maroon Bells. This needs to be on your Colorado bucket list!

Aspen has a small mountain town vibe mixed with posh and luxury. There are many elevated shopping and dining options here, especially if you like name brands and keep up with the latest fashion. I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Aspen, but after my first experience, I now understand the appeal.

I’m really disappointed I did not get to try any of the restaurants in Aspen because on my day trip, our timing was off and we chose not to drive the mountain pass in the dark. No regrets, but especially if you are visiting from out of state you’ll definitely want to stay more than a day here. There are many great options for fine dining in Aspen and several of them do not open until after 4. For a day trip you could plan a brunch, just make sure you time it right with your reservation time for Maroon Bells.

Spoiler alert: the drive here is a very windy mountain road that becomes a one-way with a stop light in 2 places that regulate traffic flow.

Independence Pass and the lookout point for the Continental Divides is on Highway 82 between Aspen and Highway 24 which you would take from Denver if you pass through Leadville. Wear a layer and bring a hat or a hood to keep warm from the wind.

It’s hard to keep track of the names of all of the many mountains here. A helpful peak finder guide can help you to learn and identify them from the viewpoint.

Colorado Small Town Quick Guide: Where should you visit?!

Now that we’ve covered a lot of info on the best small Colorado mountain towns, I know it’s a tough choice on where to plan your next Colorado trip! I’ve made a few simple lists below to help you narrow down your decision.

Check one off your bucket list at a time and I’d love to hear from you, which is your favorite?!

Best for Couples: Manitou Springs, Ouray, Telluride, Nederland

Best for Families or Large Groups: Grand Lake, Winter Park, Breckenridge, Estes Park

Closest to Denver: Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Breckenridge, Nederland,

Closest to Colorado Springs: Manitou Springs, Victor

Closest to the Rockies: Estes Park, Lyons, Grand Lake, Grandby

Best for Southwestern Colorado: Telluride, Ouray, Pagosa Springs

Best for Hot Springs: Pagosa Springs, Buena Vista, Ouray, Grandby, Idaho Springs

Best for Skiing: Aspen, Keystone, Salida, Telluride, Winter Park, Crested Butte, Pagosa Springs, Frisco

Best for Biking: Winter Park, Lyons, Crested Butte, Leadville, Salida, Nederland

Best for Fishing: Leadville, Grandby, Frisco, Lyons, Estes Park

Best for Shopping: Aspen, Idaho Springs, Nederland, Manitou Springs, Winter Park

Best for Outdoor Dining: Idaho Springs, Leadville, Aspen

Best for “feeling out in the mountains”: Victor, Leadville, Nederland, Ouray, Telluride, Crested Butte, Pagosa Springs,

Best for Train Rides: Georgetown, Leadville, Manitou Springs, Victor-Cripple Creek

Best for Scenic Gondola Ride: Telluride, Winter Park, Aspen, Breckenridge, Keystone, Crested Butte

Leah’s personal favorites: Buena Vista, Pagosa Springs, Ouray, Telluride

Jorge’s personal favorite: Crested Butte, Buena Vista, Grand Lake, Ouray, Salida