7 Hidden Gem Towns In Colorado You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Colorado is packed with famous mountain towns. Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, the ones that flood Instagram feeds and postcards. And while they’re beautiful, they’re also crowded.
If you’ve ever sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic on I-70, overpaid for a hotel room, or tried to enjoy a “quiet” hike with a hundred other people, you know exactly what I mean.
But if you want to experience Colorado without the chaos, you have to look a little harder.
After years of exploring the less-traveled corners of the Rockies, I’ve found the hidden Colorado towns that still feel wild and untouched. If solitude, alpine lakes, and quiet nights under the stars sound like your kind of adventure, this list is for you.
1. Clark
I had visited Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park every year since I was ten. It was like stepping into a movie every time. But it wasn’t until I drove through Clark, Colorado that I felt something different; a pull, an undeniable urge to make Colorado my home.
Clark sits about 25 minutes north of Steamboat Springs, nestled near the Wyoming border. With a population of fewer than 1,000 people, it remains a hidden gem untouched by the heavy tourism that floods other parts of Colorado.
Instead of crowds, you’ll find rugged wilderness, miles of hiking trails, pristine alpine lakes, and a deep sense of solitude that’s hard to come by in the Rockies.
Whether you’re exploring the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, summiting Hahn’s Peak for jaw-dropping panoramic views, dipping your toes into the icy waters of Steamboat Lake, or camping beneath the stars at Pearl Lake State Park, adventure in Clark is wild, raw, and unspoiled.
Things To Do In Clark, Colorado:
- Summit Hahn’s Peak – One of the most rewarding hikes in Colorado, Hahn’s Peak offers a steep but stunning climb to an old fire lookout. The 360° views from the summit stretch across the Zirkel Wilderness, Steamboat Lake, and beyond.
- Grab a bite at Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse – This rustic, no-frills spot serves up hearty, mountain-style meals. In winter, rent a snowmobile straight from the property. In summer, swap the snowmobile for horseback riding through scenic trails.
- Complete the Zirkel Circle Loop – A must-do for hiking lovers, this 11-mile loop winds through alpine lakes, meadows, and towering peaks, offering some of the best views in the entire Mount Zirkel Wilderness.
Insider Tip: If you’ve already tackled the Zirkel Circle Loop, challenge yourself with the Three Island Lake Trail; a stunning 7-mile trek through alpine meadows and dense forest, leading to a pristine high-altitude lake.
- Camp or stay in a yurt at Pearl Lake State Park – Pearl Lake is quieter and more secluded than Steamboat Lake, making it an ideal spot to disconnect. You can camp along the shore or rent one of the state park yurts, which offer a cozy off-grid experience.
- Rent a pontoon and cruise around Steamboat Lake – If you’re looking for a laid-back lake day, rent a pontoon and explore the crystal-clear waters of Steamboat Lake, surrounded by towering peaks.
- Cliff jump at King Solomon Falls (at your own risk!) – A hidden oasis deep in the forest, this secluded waterfall and swimming hole are pure adrenaline. The icy water never warms up, the hike in is rugged and unforgiving, and cliff jumping here is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s one of the most epic spots in Colorado. Proceed with caution.
- Indulge in ice cream at the Clark Store – After a long day of hiking, it’s a MUST to stop by this classic country store for a scoop of homemade ice cream. It’s the perfect way to cool off and experience the local charm of Clark.
Where To Stay Near Clark, Colorado:
If you love camping and off-grid adventures, Clark is a dream. The area is surrounded by BLM land, offering plenty of free dispersed camping.
For a more comfortable stay, consider renting a cabin or yurt at Pearl Lake or Steamboat Lake State Park.
For those who prefer something with a few more amenities, Steamboat Springs is just a short drive away, with a range of lodges, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals.
Having lived in Steamboat Springs for years, I can confidently recommend the following hotels:
2. Lake City
After years of living and exploring Colorado, I was convinced I had seen it all. But a few summers ago, Mike and I took a wrong turn and ended up in a town we didn’t even know existed.
How had we never heard of this place?
Why was no one talking about Lake City?
Tucked deep in the San Juan Mountains, Lake City is the kind of town that feels like a well-kept secret. Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking peaks in Colorado, it offers endless outdoor adventures, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and backcountry exploring, all with a fraction of the crowds you’d find in more well-known destinations.
And yes, there’s a lake. A massive one, perfect for fishing or just soaking in the views. If you’re into fly fishing, this is one of the best spots in Colorado to catch brook trout, brown trout, and lake trout.
Things To Do In Lake City, Colorado
- Visit Lake City Brewing Company – A small but welcoming brewery with locally crafted beers and a great spot to unwind after a day outdoors.
- Hike a section of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) – Experience stunning alpine terrain along one of the most iconic long-distance trails in the U.S.
- Drive the Alpine Loop – A high-elevation off-road route through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the state. A 4WD, high-clearance vehicle is required.
- Camp under the stars – With zero light pollution, Lake City is an incredible place for stargazing and peaceful camping.
- Mountain biking – Ride through high-alpine meadows, aspen forests, and rugged singletrack trails.
- Snowmobiling & ATVs – Explore the backcountry trails in winter or summer for an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Where To Stay In Lake City, Colorado
If you’re visiting Lake City, The North Face Lodge is the place to stay. The rooms are spacious, thoughtfully equipped, and packed with mountain charm, but the real star is the deck.
With cozy fireplaces, heated lamps, and an absolutely breathtaking view, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the scenery.. arguably one of the best in Colorado.
>> Click here to check out and book The North Face Lodge!
3. Oak Creek & Stagecoach
For a few years, we called Oak Creek home, and even in 2025, I still think of it as one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets.
Tucked in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, just 20 miles from Steamboat Springs, Oak Creek feels like the Colorado you imagine in your dreams. The kind where the locals all know each other, the air smells like pine, and the mountains feel like they belong only to you.
Just down the road, Stagecoach State Park is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with its 820-acre reservoir, winding hiking trails, and wildlife roaming free. Whether you’re here for a weekend or thinking of staying for good, Oak Creek and Stagecoach will steal your heart.
Things To Do In Oak Creek & Stagecoach
- Fish at Stagecoach Reservoir – If you’re into fishing, this is one of the best spots in Colorado. The lake is packed with rainbow trout and northern pike, with record-setting catches over the years. You can fish from the shore, rent a boat, or go all-in with a guided fishing tour.
- Hike the Silver Creek Trail – A secluded 9-mile trail leading into the Sarvis Creek Wilderness. It’s quiet, peaceful, and packed with wildlife; keep an eye out for elk, deer, and even bears.
- Listen to live music at Franciosi Brothers – This local pizzeria is one of our favorite spots in town. In the warmer months, live music on the patio brings the whole community together, and they often have great specials on food and drinks.
- Cross Devil’s Causeway (if you dare) – This infamous hike in the Flat Tops Wilderness is not for the faint of heart. The “Causeway” itself is a 3-foot-wide ridge with sheer drop-offs on either side. If you can stomach the crossing, the loop is 10.5 miles of breathtaking alpine terrain. If not, turn back after soaking up the unreal views.
- Relax on the beach at Stagecoach Reservoir – Yep, there’s a beach in Oak Creek. It’s small, but in the summer, it’s a great place to swim, soak up the sun, and enjoy the lake. The beach is right next to the Stagecoach Marina, where you’ll find boat rentals, snacks, and a convenience store.
- Snowshoe or cross-country ski at Rossi Meadow – Every winter, Oak Creek grooms the Rossi Meadow into a scenic ski trail, open to anyone. Don’t have your own gear? There’s a shed at the trailhead with free donated equipment.
- Camp at Chapman Reservoir – A remote, first-come, first-served campground about 30 minutes south of Oak Creek. With only 12 campsites, no running water, and zero light pollution, it’s our favorite spot to disconnect and reset.
- Ice skate at Oak Creek’s outdoor rink – The town has a covered ice rink that’s free to the public all winter, with free skates available to borrow.
Where To Stay In Oak Creek, Colorado
Oak Creek is tiny, so you won’t find big hotels here, but you will find some great places to stay.
- The Lodges of Oak Creek – This small collection of 10 cabins is the best place to stay in town. Each cabin has a full kitchen, lofted bed, and cozy rustic vibe, perfect for an extended stay
- Camping at Stagecoach State Park – If you’d rather sleep under the stars, Stagecoach offers lakefront campsites with unreal views.
For more options, Steamboat Springs is just a short drive away, with plenty of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals.
4. Dinosaur
Nestled in the northwestern corner of Colorado, Dinosaur is a tiny town with a big claim to fame; it’s the gateway to Dinosaur National Monument, one of the most significant prehistoric sites in the country.
This region is a goldmine for history buffs, geology lovers, and outdoor adventurers alike, with real dinosaur fossils, dramatic canyons, and endless open landscapes to explore.
Insider Tip: Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, one of the best-kept secrets in the U.S., is just 1.5 hours away. If you’re planning a road trip, don’t miss the chance to visit both Dinosaur and Flaming Gorge.
Things to Do in Dinosaur, Colorado
- Explore Dinosaur National Monument – This massive 210,000-acre monument straddles the Colorado-Utah border and is home to one of the world’s best-preserved dinosaur fossil sites. The Quarry Exhibit Hall features a rock wall with over 1,500 dinosaur bones, giving you an up-close look at real Jurassic-era fossils.
- Hike the Fossil Discovery Trail – If you want to see dinosaur fossils in the wild, this short but fascinating 1.2-mile hike takes you past exposed bones, petroglyphs, and stunning rock formations.
- Raft the Green and Yampa Rivers – For thrill-seekers, white-water rafting through Dinosaur National Monument is a must. You’ll float through deep canyons, towering rock walls, and remote wilderness, making for an epic multi-day adventure.
- Camp under the stars – With no light pollution, the stargazing here is unreal. The Echo Park Campground, located deep inside Dinosaur National Monument, offers breathtaking canyon views and a true off-grid experience.
- Visit Flaming Gorge (1.5 Hours Away) – If you’re making the trip to Dinosaur, do yourself a favor and continue on to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, too.
This massive reservoir spanning Utah and Wyoming is home to red rock cliffs, turquoise waters, and some of the best fishing and boating in the West. It’s a hidden gem that most travelers have never heard of.
Where to Stay in Dinosaur, Colorado
Dinosaur is small, so lodging options are limited to basic motels and campgrounds. If you’re looking for more amenities, Vernal, Utah (just 30 minutes away) has hotels, restaurants, and everything you need for a comfortable stay.
For those who love camping, there are some amazing backcountry sites inside Dinosaur National Monument.
5. Heeney
Every time I pass through Heeney on my way up north, I’m blown away by its raw beauty and complete lack of crowds.
This tiny, unincorporated community sits on the shores of Green Mountain Reservoir, a massive alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks, rugged wilderness, and some of the most underrated outdoor recreation in Colorado.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, off-the-radar escape, Heeney delivers. Whether you’re boating, fishing, hiking, or camping under a sky full of stars, this is one of those places where you feel like you have all of Colorado to yourself.
Things To Do In Henney, Colorado
- Boat on Green Mountain Reservoir – The main attraction in Heeney, this expansive lake is perfect for boating, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding. Unlike many other reservoirs in Colorado, Green Mountain has far fewer boats on the water, making for a peaceful day of cruising.
- Fish for trout and kokanee salmon – Green Mountain Reservoir is a dream for anglers, with rainbow and lake trout, kokanee salmon, and even northern pike.
- Camp lakeside – There’s no better way to take in the beauty of Heeney than camping right on the water. Several campgrounds line the reservoir, offering primitive, first-come, first-served spots with epic mountain views.
- Hike to Lower Cataract Lake – One of the most scenic (and underrated) hikes in central Colorado, this short 2.5-mile loop takes you around a stunning alpine lake, past waterfalls, and through groves of aspen and pine. It’s especially breathtaking in the fall when the leaves turn golden.
- Explore Eaglesmere Lakes Trail – If you’re up for a challenge, the 7.5-mile round-trip hike to Eaglesmere Lakes rewards you with pristine high-alpine lakes, incredible wildflowers, and endless views of the Gore Range.
Where To Stay Near Heeney, Colorado
Heeney sits along CO-9 between Kremmling and Silverthorne, offering easy access to both towns for lodging. While camping near Green Mountain Reservoir is the best way to fully experience the area, finding a hotel or rental in Heeney itself is nearly impossible.
For more amenities, restaurants, and upscale lodging, Silverthorne is your best bet. Just 30 minutes south, it has hotels, vacation rentals, and everything you need for a more comfortable stay.
If you want a more rustic, off-the-grid experience, Kremmling is the way to go. This small Western town offers budget-friendly motels, cabins, and access to backcountry adventures.
6. Westcliffe
In Westcliffe, there are no ski resorts, no crowds, and no big attractions trying to pull you in. Instead, it’s just wide open spaces, endless trails, and a small town that moves at its own pace. If you’re looking for a quiet mountain getaway, this is it.
Sitting in Colorado’s Wet Mountain Valley, Westcliffe is surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the west and the Wet Mountains to the east, giving you some of the best hiking, camping, and stargazing in the entire state.
Things To Do In Westcliffe
- Hike the Rainbow Trail – This 100+ mile trail runs along the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, connecting to alpine lakes, remote peaks, and hidden backcountry trails.
- Camp at Alvarado Campground – One of the best places to wake up to mountain views and start your day with a hike straight from your campsite.
- See the stars at Smokey Jack Observatory – Westcliffe is one of the only designated Dark Sky Communities in the U.S., which means no light pollution and Milky Way views that will blow your mind.
- Catch live music in town – Westcliffe has a surprisingly good music scene, with outdoor concerts, live performances in local bars, and community events throughout the year.
- Take the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway – A 103-mile drive through ghost towns, meadows, and some of the best mountain views in southern Colorado.
Where to Stay in Westcliffe, Colorado
For a cozy stay in town, Courtyard Country Inn is a good choice, with rustic rooms and a beautiful courtyard with fire pits and gardens. It’s within walking distance of local spots, which makes it a perfect home base.
If you’d rather camp under the stars, Alvarado Campground offers mountain views and easy trail access, while dispersed camping lets you escape completely off-grid.
7. RICO
Sitting at 8,825 feet in the San Juan Mountains, Rico is a tiny town with big scenery and zero crowds.
With a population of around 200, it’s the kind of place where cell service is spotty, the air smells like pine, and life moves at its own pace. If you’re looking for a quiet escape deep in the mountains, this is it.
Things to Do in Rico, Colorado
- Drive the San Juan Skyway – Rico sits along one of the most scenic drives in Colorado, winding through Telluride, Silverton, and jaw-dropping mountain passes.
- Fish the Dolores River – Flowing right past town, the Dolores River is a trout fishing paradise with quiet waters and very anglers.
- Hike the Calico Trail – This 11-mile loop takes you through alpine meadows, aspen groves, and stunning ridgeline views. If you want solitude and scenery, this is the hike.
Insider Tip: Visit Rico, Colorado during fall for the most stunning autumn colors.
Where to Stay in Rico, Colorado
For a unique stay, Lazy Rooster Ranch offers A-frame cabins, canvas tents, and riverside tipis, giving you a true off-grid mountain experience.
If you prefer something more traditional, Telluride is just 30 minutes away, with plenty of lodging options while keeping you close to Rico’s quiet charm.
