Park County
The lands of Park County were originally inhabited by the Ute tribe, who lived in the area as early as the 14th or 15th century. The discovery of gold in 1859 during the Colorado Gold Rush brought a wave of new settlers, dramatically changing the landscape and population of Park County. At its peak, the Gold Rush era drew an estimated 10,000 people to this rugged mountain region. Established in 1861 as one of Colorado’s original seventeen counties, Park County’s government seat was first located in Tarryall before moving to Fairplay in 1867, where it remains today. The arrival of the railroad in 1879 and the telegraph shortly after helped connect Park County to the rest of the growing state.
While mining played a central role in Park County’s early economy, the focus has gradually shifted toward tourism and ranching. Today, ranchers in Park County raise thousands of cattle, with native hay as the leading crop. The county spans over 2,200 square miles, with elevations ranging from 7,000 to 14,000 feet, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and diverse terrain. Park County includes the towns of Alma and Fairplay, as well as charming communities like Bailey, Como, Grant, Hartsel, Jefferson, Lake George, and Shawnee. Interestingly, the geographic center of Colorado is located right here, adding to the county’s unique appeal.
Outdoor enthusiasts and visitors alike are drawn to Park County’s abundant recreational opportunities. Cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowshoeing are just a few of the activities available year-round. The county is also known for its fourteeners—mountains exceeding 14,000 feet—including Mount Lincoln, Mount Democrat, Mount Cameron, and Mount Bross, all accessible from a single trailhead at Kite Lake. Mount Sherman, located partially in Park County and Lake County, offers another impressive alpine challenge.
Park County is home to several federally protected natural areas. The expansive Pike National Forest, covering over 1.1 million acres across six counties, includes popular fishing, camping, and hiking spots within Park County. Wilderness areas such as Mount Evans, Lost Creek, and Buffalo Peaks provide pristine backcountry experiences for adventurers seeking solitude and stunning scenery. Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area, located near Lake George, offers fishing and boating below the reservoir’s dam. Nature lovers will also appreciate the Windy Ridge Bristlecone Pine Scenic Area, where ancient bristlecone pine trees—some more than a thousand years old—display their distinctive wind-carved shapes.
A highlight of Park County’s cultural calendar is the annual Burro Days festival, held every July since 1949. This multi-day event celebrates the county’s mining heritage with unique burro races up and down Mosquito Pass, a lively pancake breakfast, llama races, gold panning, a parade, live music, BBQ and barn dances, and nearly 150 arts, crafts, and food booths.
Whether you’re drawn by Park County’s deep history, stunning natural beauty, or outdoor lifestyle, this region offers a truly authentic Colorado mountain experience with a welcoming community and a range of real estate options for every lifestyle.
