Get Off the Beaten Path

By Emily Moyer

Colorado has so much to offer the those who want to get outdoors and explore the state. From summer hiking to extreme winter camping, the state has it all.

As Colorado’s population continues to grow, it is becoming more challenging to find a spot to enjoy its true authenticity and spirit. While small towns like Crested Butte and Silverton have become all the rage for those who want to get away from the big city, Colorado is home to multitudes of hidden gems that are sure to make you feel that sense of nostalgia you’ve been longing for. Following are a few ideas.

Pitkin

Pitkin is a little-known town to most, unless you are into 4-wheeling. But Pitkin offers more than just good Jeeping trails. Located in Gunnison National Forest, this town offers camping and ATVing, but also trails that tell a story of the mining history of Colorado. The town, which sits at the base of Cumberland Pass, offers some of the most glorious, sweeping mountain views, beaver ponds and old mining claims to be explored. Educate yourself about the old mining claims before you go. Many are located on private property and cannot be viewed by the public, however some of the claims can be viewed from the road or accessed with a short hike.

Basalt

This small town boasts some of Colorado’s best fishing opportunities. Two Gold Medal rivers, the Fryingpan and the Roaring Fork, come together to provide some of the best waters to catch rainbow, brook and brown trout. This mountainous area also has remote, deep-woods camping on the shores of the beautiful Ruedi Reservoir, where you can wake to the views of sailboats floating by your tent. Its proximity to Aspen and Glenwood Springs makes it a fantastic getaway spot for relaxation and adventure.

Victor

If you are looking for a bit of old west adventure, Victor is your destination spot. Located near Cripple Creek, the town has a lasting influence because of the Gold Rush that hit Colorado and much of this history still lingers in the town. You’ll see old rail lines, mine sites and probably some gold-panners. Dig deeper with a visit to the museum that will take you back in time with stories and artifacts for all ages and interests. You can take walking tours on the Vindicator Valley Trail, one of the “trails of gold” that features abandoned mines and cemetery tours.

Saguache

Located in the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains, camping in the Saguache area will be some of the most scenic and uninterrupted places to pitch your tent. With wildlife roaming nearby, Saguache offers accommodations for every type of person, from hunters and fishermen, to the relaxed, hammock enthusiast. Saguache is home to great biking, horseback and hiking trails. It is also home to some of the state’s most peaceful hot springs, which can be enjoyed under a sky full of stars. If you are staying for a few days, it is worth it to take a drive to Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, or to Crestone to visit the Karma Thegsum Tashi Gomang monastery.

Marble

Maybe you’ve heard of Marble, or maybe you’ve just seen photos of the renowned and picturesque Crystal Mill that sits on the Crystal River. What you might not know about the town of Marble is its Native American influences. Considered sacred Ute hunting grounds, the town also offers remnants from its European settlers’ past. Not only can you find bits of history strewn about the town, like the Yule Marble Quarry, you can also enjoy private hot spring pools, photography tours and mountain cabins that have been restored.

Lake City

A true Colorado mountain town, Lake City offers the perfect mountain getaway from the crowds. Its historic roots with the Ute Indians and miners offer many avenues for adventure, like the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway. The peaks are often capped with snow year round and the byway is teeming with wild animals, flowers, ghost towns and old mining claims. North Clear Creek Falls, just off the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the state and is just one of four beautiful falls in the area. Activities include fishing, hiking, skiing and excellent night sky photography. Lake City’s proximity to other small towns like Ouray and Silverton are just a bonus.

Norwood

The town of Norwood sits atop Wright’s Mesa and is considered one of Colorado’s last true old west towns. A deep history of horsemanship and agriculture connect the town’s past to today’s residents. Forage for crunchy asparagus in the early spring, juicy strawberries, pine nuts and wild raspberries in the summer, and earthy mushrooms in the fall. Norwood offers beautiful trails for horseback riding and places to camp on the beautiful shores of Miramonte Reservoir. Wintertime in Norwood offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with the stunning backdrop of Lone Cone Peak in the gorgeous San Juan Mountains.