Creede, Colorado is a stunning mountain town to visit. From the captivating nature to the quaint town center, Creede offers plenty to do, despite its small size. The main street is lined with a variety of shops, small restaurants, and a few parks. The town is centered in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, next to the Rio Grande National Forest, and the majority of homes are near the Rio Grande River.
Creede is in the southern half of Colorado, about four hours away from Dakota Ridge High School, and along the Rio Grande River. It was originally a mining town in the mid-1800s and is considered one of the last boom towns in Colorado due to the abundance of silver, according to the Creede Mineral & County Colorado website. Today, the town’s population is just under 300.
When walking through the town, there are posters strung up to inform visitors of local activities that range from annual festivals to Monday night basketball games. There is even a theater on the edge of the main street that hosts a variety of musicals and plays each year. You can almost feel the sense of community when walking down the street.
A popular shop in Creede is San Juan Sports and Sunnyside Bar which sells and rents mountain gear to visitors and provides showers and laundry services for mountain travelers. Another popular shop is the Creede Olive Oil Company where customers can find a variety of olive oils and some of the best balsamic vinegar.
If shopping gets tiring, stop into Coffee On the Fly for some of the best coffee and tea drinks. Their menu is filled with creative drinks for each season — this year’s fall and Halloween beverages are absolutely delicious.
Outside of the actual town, there’s plenty to do, including camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, camping, rafting and kayaking, golfing, and hunting. Of course, the options are seasonal, so winter activities include ice skating and hockey.
Because Creede is so far from the city, nature is well preserved. The air feels fresher, and the plants look healthier, even in the fall and winter. At night the stars are much more prominent, and the moon is brighter — on a clear night, the Milky Way Galaxy is visible.
The water in the Rio Grande River is so cold and clean that all the river rocks are visible — a lovely break from the typically dirty water found in cities. You could easily relax and completely lose track of time sitting by the river, just make sure to bring a blanket or warm jacket.
There are many options for lodging in Creede if you aren’t lucky enough to know someone with a cabin. Cabins are available for rent, or consider staying at a local inn. There are thirty options listed on the Creede Mineral & County Colorado website.
Consider visiting Creede the next time you’re looking to enjoy the mountains of Colorado. The adventures and sights hidden within the small town create unforgettable memories.
