Given that the state of Colorado was founded in 1876 – 100 years after the United States of America, hence its nickname as the Centennial State – 2026 will be the state’s sesquicentennial celebration. This 150-year anniversary is the perfect time to visit some of the places that helped to build Colorado into what it’s become today – towns of its Wild West-era and the mining boom of the 1800s.

While many towns from this time in Colorado were abandoned as precious minerals dried up, some continue to exist, with economies now driven by tourism and otherwise.

Here are three often-overlooked towns that were crucial to the mining industry to add to your 2026 bucket list:

1. Lake City

Once serving as a crucial supply center for many of the state’s prospectors and often referred to as ‘the most remote place in the lower 48,’ many Coloradans would likely struggle to put Lake City on a map. After all, it’s remote, it’s not home to a ski resort, and its population is about 430. That said, Lake City is worth the drive.

Find Lake City in Colorado’s Hinsdale County. It’s the perfect place to visit during the summer, with its elevation of about 8,672 feet above sea level meaning it’s not quite as toasty as some of the state’s major metropolitan areas. Plus, it’s called Lake City for a reason, with a summer visit making it easy to enjoy the water here, specifically that of Lake San Cristobal. Lake City is also home to various hiking opportunities, including some fourteener-bound routes.

2. Creede

Located in rugged and remote terrain about 35 miles north of Pagosa Springs, Creede was once the epitome of a Wild West town, home to cowboys, outlaws, and gamblers during its early days of prosperity in the late-1800s. While its population was said to have soared to more than 10,000 residents by 1891, it plummeted over decades that followed, now with only 257 people calling the town home.

Despite the population decline, Creede is very much alive and kicking, home to many things to do outdoor recreation-related and otherwise. For starters, visitors should check out the Bachelor Loop, a 17-mile drivable tour through the town’s past that travels through the historic mining district and ghost towns. Those who would rather travel on foot should track down access to the Colorado Trail or the summit-bound hike up San Luis Peak – less crowded than the more-trafficked standard option.

Creede is also home to the Underground Mining Museum and the Creede Repertory Theatre must be mentioned, as well, established in 1966 and now operating as a seasonal theatre and education center, once ranked by USA Today as one of the ’10 great places to see lights way off Broadway.’ Find a full list of the theatre’s shows to check out here.

3. Silverton

Most Coloradans have heard of Silverton, but not so many have been there. From the Million Dollar Highway, to its location on the Alpine Loop, to Animas Forks Ghost Town, to Silverton Mountain Ski Area, to the Durango-Silveryon Narrow Gauge Railroad, there’s plenty to do in this Wild West town year-round.

Built during the mining boom of the 1800s, the economy in this part of Colorado now relies on tourism – but don’t expect any big hotels in this tiny town. With a population of around 600, Silverton maintains its small town vibes. Restaurants and bars tend to close relatively early and streets are quite sleepy with exception of a few major annual events. However, there’s no shortage of local outdoor recreation.

One great way to experience this part of the state is to plan a summer trip and rent an off-road vehicle of some sort – this writer went with a Polaris RZR side-by-side. After obtaining your mode of transportation, head into the hills to explore old mining roads amid a stunning alpine landscape.

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