As a vibrant town born in the silver boom and dubbed the “last great place to drink and fight,” Creede still offers plenty of Wild West vibes, as well as plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors in the remote area of Colorado. It’s small population of around 300 residents makes this spot a true escape from the hectic bustle often found in many Colorado mountain towns.

History:

According to the Town of Creede, like many Colorado mining and mountain towns, the town began as a seasonal stop for a variety of Native American peoples, including the Utes.

Settlers, including New Mexicans from the south and Homesteaders from the East, flooded into the area after the discovery of gold in the San Juan Mountains in the later 1800s. Ranching and tourism began to be established along the Upper Rio Grande Valley and Rio Grande.

According to Western Mining History, Nicholas Creede found a high-grade silver vein on Willow Creek in 1890, which caused the area’s population to quickly jump to around 10,000. William Palmer, a railroad tycoon in Colorado Springs, extended his trail line from Wagon Wheel Gap into Willow Creek Canyon, further stimulating the town’s silvery industry.

Gamblers, saloonkeepers, and “ladies of the evening,” followed prospectors and miners to the town. According to Creede, Bob Ford opened a dance hall and saloon, with others following. Cy Warman, a journalist and author, captured the spirit of Creede in a poem, writing “It’s day all day in the day time, And there is no night in Creede.”

Making it through dips in the mining industry and relying on tourism and it’s stunning natural setting, Creede earned it’s name as the “little mining camp that refused to die.”

Outdoor recreation:

San Luis Peak – a fourteener about ten miles away from Creede in the San Juan Mountains. Find an alternate (and less crowded) trailhead outside of town.

Rio Grande River – offers a great spot for fly fishing.

Wheeler Geologic Area – also located near Creede, the area includes views of a geologic formation of volcanic tuff eroded into various shapes.

North and South Clear Creek Falls – offer stunning scenic views of waterfalls.

Silver Thread Scenic & Historic Byway – a scenic drive that goes through Creede.

Culture:

Creede Repertory Theatre – this historic venue offers a rotating schedule of plays, improv comedy, and more throughout the summer.

Underground Mining Museum – this unique museum was blasted out of solid rock by three Creede miners and offers a look at mining from the late 1800s.

Creede Historical Museum – located in the historic Denver & Rio Grande Train Depot.

Bachelor Historic Loop – a 17-mile drive through the historic mining district that sits above Creede.

Dining:

149 Eatery – serves American comfort food.

Kip’s Grill – offers burgers, enchiladas, and more, and includes a patio and live music.

The Creede Hotel & Restaurant – offers period hotel rooms and fine dining.

Tommyknocker Tavern – features a laid-back atmosphere and live music.

Lodging:

Antlers Rio Grand Lodge & Restaurant – a destination resort located in the San Juan Mountains.

Creede Creekside Cabins – two unique cabins just outside of Creede.

Aspen Inn – a dog-friendly boutique hotel located near the town.

The Creede Hotel & Restaurant – offers period hotel rooms.

Getting there:

According to Google Maps, it takes about four and a half hours to reach Creede from Denver.

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