Most Underrated Towns In Colorado

Revered as one of the mountain states, Colorado is full of vivid and sculptural landscapes, featuring mountains, forests, canyons, rivers, and more. Views of wildlife and plenty of different activities and adventures make the state even more appealing.

Many tourists make their way through the popular cities of Denver, Aspen, and Boulder, but there are many small towns that do not get the love they deserve. Below, you will find a list of the most underrated towns in Colorado and why you should visit them.

Grand Lake

Located on the shores of Grand Lake, the biggest and deepest lake in Colorado, the town of Grand Lake has lots to explore. The community is also known as the western entrance to the Rocky Mountains, meaning there is plenty to do and see.

The town offers numerous activities aside from sightseeing and hiking, including boating and golfing, and snowmobiling in the winter months. If you are looking for somewhere to get away, whether it's for a weekend or a little longer, Grand Lake is the place to be.

Estes Park

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains near Roosevelt National Forest, Estes Park is a small town packed with adventure. Explore the woods, enjoy scenic views of the Big Thompson River that flows through the town, and appreciate the local wildlife and relaxing moments.

The small town is also where you'll find the Stanley Hotel. A favorite spot for tourists interested in spooky, ghostly stories that are also rich in history and educational value. If you're looking for scenic views and lively evenings, make sure to visit Estes Park.

Ridgway

Ridgway is the ideal spot for an avid hiker since it’s packed with mountainscapes and trails. There are even natural hot springs just a mile south of the town, so you can stop and relax before heading back.

The town boasts many trails for mountain biking and ATVing, which is ideal if you have an itch for adventure. The music and cultural scene are also bustling for a small town, with plenty of concerts, classes, and workshops available year-round.

Crestone

With a population of approximately 100, Crestone is a very small town. While it was originally settled as a mining town, it is now known as a regional spiritual center. The town hosts several groups of major world religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and other practices.

Crestone is also just below the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and near the San Luis Valley, so there is plenty to see and explore. It's the perfect spot for an enriching and enlightening experience. 

Silverton

Another historic mining town, Silverton has become a National Historic Landmark because of its history with the gold rush mines in the 1870s. The town is set in a mountain valley, surrounded by 13,000-feet peaks, as well as national forests, meadows, and plenty of trails.

After exploring the mountainous landscape, admire the town's ornate homes, which were richly built due to the prosperity of gold miners. Visitors will also discover numerous eclectic gift shops and restaurants, making this a perfect spot for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.

Frisco

Frisco, Colorado, offers year-round attractions, including historic buildings that highlight the town's history in Colorado's silver boom. The town is also known for its proximity to Dillon Reservoir, a scenic lake ideal for swimming, boating, and photography. Famous ski resorts attract winter visitors, while in fall, spring, and summer, hiking in White River National Forest provides breathtaking views of Frisco mountainscape.

Nederland

Nestled just 17 miles west of Boulder, Nederland is rich in history and offers a variety of recreational activities. It serves as the gateway to the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, perfect for fishing, biking, hiking, and camping. Historically, Nederland was a mill site for silver ore from nearby mines and also processed tungsten ore during World War I. The town provides easy access to Eldora Mountain Resort, a ski destination just five miles away. One of its most famous events is Frozen Dead Guy Days in March, celebrating the story of a Norwegian man who was cryogenically frozen in the 1980s. This event features coffin races, a polar plunge, and other cold-themed activities that promise excitement. With its rich history, stories, hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and shops, Nederland offers something for everyone.

Small Towns and Big Adventures!

If you are heading toward Colorado in search of scenic views, charming towns, and fewer tourists, these locations should be first on your list! They are full of history, adventure, and activities that will keep you entertained for the perfect getaway, no matter what time of year it is.

Have you visited any of these underrated towns in Colorado? Share in the comments below!