Summer is one of the best times to head to the mountains and enjoy some of the best of Colorado. Hiking trails abound and local shops offer unique merchandise and good food. Stay off the beaten path and explore some smaller towns to avoid the crowds. Even better, plan a week away and avoid peak weekend traffic!
Here are 5 small Colorado mountain towns to explore:
Here are 5 small Colorado mountain towns to explore:
Steamboat Springs
Summer days in Steamboat are some of the best. This town sits low at 6,732 feet so it’s a good stop for out of towners. In the summer, the Steamboat mountain becomes home to downhill mountain bikers. Pick up a rental at the base and head up the gondola for a fun ride down.
If downhill biking isn’t your pace, you can take a biking tour of downtown Steamboat. There are several coffee shops and breweries along the way for you to stop and explore.
Make sure you pop into Off The Beaten Path for coffee and some local flare.
Leadville
Leadville sits two miles above sea level at 10,152 feet. This former mining town is small but is the gateway to many beautiful hikes and adventures. Pack your fishing gear and spend a day on the Arkansas River, explore seemingly countless lakes or find the perfect camping spot.
Straight out from town you’ll find Mosquito Pass which peaks at 12,186 feet and is the highest pass in the United States. This adventure is ideal for ATV’s or off roading vehicles and is closed all winter.
While you’re in town, browse the downtown area for some fun shopping and dining.
Crested Butte
Dubbed the “Wildflower capital of Colorado”, Crested Butte is full of breathtaking scenery. They host a Wildflower Festival every July where you can enjoy hikes, garden tours and even photography classes.
Crested Butte boasts over 750 miles of mountain biking trails, so bring your bike along for the ride. Gunnison National Forest provides excellent camping opportunities for the adventurous and non-adventurous alike.
Back in town you’ll find delicious coffee, cute shops and outstanding food.
Telluride
If you’re committed to a long-weekend or even a whole week of vacation, Telluride is more than worth the drive. The gondola is free to ride and serves as public transportation for the town. This 13 minute ride will give you 360 degree views you can’t find anywhere else.
The town is surrounded by hiking trails, off roading trails and a few paths less traveled for the adventurous to explore.
If adventuring isn’t quite your speed, head to the Mountain Village, enjoy a game of golf or find a good spot to enjoy the views and a good book.
Buena Vista
At the base of twelve 14ers you’ll find the quaint town of Buena Vista. Start early in the morning to summit any of these mountains before the storms roll in. Or for a more relaxed adventure, find a local rafting company and head for some whitewater rafting down the Arkansas River.
After a long day of adventure, relax at one of two hot springs in town. Your tired muscles will thank you!
Browse the downtown area to enjoy locally crafted beers, spirits and food.
Enjoy exploring a new part of Colorado!
Summer days in Steamboat are some of the best. This town sits low at 6,732 feet so it’s a good stop for out of towners. In the summer, the Steamboat mountain becomes home to downhill mountain bikers. Pick up a rental at the base and head up the gondola for a fun ride down.
If downhill biking isn’t your pace, you can take a biking tour of downtown Steamboat. There are several coffee shops and breweries along the way for you to stop and explore.
Make sure you pop into Off The Beaten Path for coffee and some local flare.
Leadville
Leadville sits two miles above sea level at 10,152 feet. This former mining town is small but is the gateway to many beautiful hikes and adventures. Pack your fishing gear and spend a day on the Arkansas River, explore seemingly countless lakes or find the perfect camping spot.
Straight out from town you’ll find Mosquito Pass which peaks at 12,186 feet and is the highest pass in the United States. This adventure is ideal for ATV’s or off roading vehicles and is closed all winter.
While you’re in town, browse the downtown area for some fun shopping and dining.
Crested Butte
Dubbed the “Wildflower capital of Colorado”, Crested Butte is full of breathtaking scenery. They host a Wildflower Festival every July where you can enjoy hikes, garden tours and even photography classes.
Crested Butte boasts over 750 miles of mountain biking trails, so bring your bike along for the ride. Gunnison National Forest provides excellent camping opportunities for the adventurous and non-adventurous alike.
Back in town you’ll find delicious coffee, cute shops and outstanding food.
Telluride
If you’re committed to a long-weekend or even a whole week of vacation, Telluride is more than worth the drive. The gondola is free to ride and serves as public transportation for the town. This 13 minute ride will give you 360 degree views you can’t find anywhere else.
The town is surrounded by hiking trails, off roading trails and a few paths less traveled for the adventurous to explore.
If adventuring isn’t quite your speed, head to the Mountain Village, enjoy a game of golf or find a good spot to enjoy the views and a good book.
Buena Vista
At the base of twelve 14ers you’ll find the quaint town of Buena Vista. Start early in the morning to summit any of these mountains before the storms roll in. Or for a more relaxed adventure, find a local rafting company and head for some whitewater rafting down the Arkansas River.
After a long day of adventure, relax at one of two hot springs in town. Your tired muscles will thank you!
Browse the downtown area to enjoy locally crafted beers, spirits and food.
Enjoy exploring a new part of Colorado!