Cities and Towns in Alamosa County, Colorado
Founded on 1913/3/8, Alamosa County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Alamosa County was split from Costilla County and Conejos County. The city of Alamosa is the county seat. With FIPS code of 3, Alamosa County has a population of 16,547 and area of 723.21 square miles (1,873 km²).
List of all cities in Alamosa County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Adams State College, CO | 81102 | 719 |
| Alamosa, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| 81102 | 719 | |
| Carmel, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| East Alamosa, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Estrella, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Great Sand Dunes National Mo, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Henry, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Hooper, CO | 81136 | 719 |
| Mosca, CO | 81146 | 719 |
| Sand Dunes Mo, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Stanley, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Washington, CO | 81101 | 719 |
| Waverly, CO | 81101 | 719 |
Major Cities and Towns in Alamosa County, Colorado
Alamosa
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 7.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81101, 81102
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.4694° N, 105.8700° W
Location and History
Alamosa is the county seat and largest city in Alamosa County, located in the San Luis Valley in southern Colorado. The city was founded in 1878 as a railroad town by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, which made it a crucial transportation hub for the San Luis Valley. Alamosa’s name is derived from the Spanish word for “cottonwood,” referencing the trees that are common in the area. The city grew rapidly due to its strategic location and access to the railroads, which facilitated the transport of agricultural products, livestock, and goods. Over time, Alamosa evolved into the commercial and cultural center of the region, with agriculture, education, and tourism playing significant roles in its economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alamosa is served by the Alamosa School District RE-11J, with Alamosa High School and Ortega Middle School being the primary educational institutions. The city is also home to Adams State University, a key educational and cultural institution that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Major landmarks in Alamosa include the San Luis Valley Museum, which showcases the region’s history and cultural heritage, and the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge, which offers birdwatching and hiking opportunities. The nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, is a major tourist attraction and a short drive from the city. Alamosa’s blend of history, education, and access to outdoor recreation make it a vibrant and dynamic community in southern Colorado.
Hooper
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81136
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.7447° N, 105.8758° W
Location and History
Hooper is a small town located in the northern part of Alamosa County, within the expansive San Luis Valley. The town was established in the early 20th century as a small farming community, benefiting from the fertile soils and irrigation provided by the Rio Grande and other local water sources. Hooper has always been a modest, close-knit community with a strong focus on agriculture, particularly potato farming. The town’s name was chosen to honor Major S. Hooper, a railroad official who played a role in the development of the area. Despite its small size, Hooper has maintained its rural charm and serves as a gateway to some of the region’s most unique attractions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hooper is served by the Sangre de Cristo School District RE-22J, with students typically attending schools in nearby Mosca. The town’s most notable landmark is the UFO Watchtower, a quirky roadside attraction that offers 360-degree views of the San Luis Valley and has become a popular spot for UFO enthusiasts and stargazers. The nearby Sand Dunes Swimming Pool, fed by natural hot springs, is another key attraction, offering year-round swimming in geothermally heated waters. Hooper’s proximity to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve makes it a convenient base for visitors looking to explore the park and the surrounding area. The town’s rural setting and unique attractions make it a peaceful and interesting stop in Alamosa County.
Mosca
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: N/A (unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximately 600 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81146
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.6447° N, 105.8742° W
Location and History
Mosca is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Alamosa County, near the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The town was originally founded in the late 19th century and named after the nearby Mosca Pass, a key route through the mountains. Mosca developed as a small farming and ranching community, with agriculture serving as the mainstay of its economy. The town’s location near the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve has also contributed to its significance, as it serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the dunes. Over the years, Mosca has maintained its agricultural roots while embracing its role in regional tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mosca is home to the Sangre de Cristo School District RE-22J, which serves the educational needs of the community with schools like Sangre de Cristo Elementary and High School. Major landmarks in Mosca include the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which features the tallest sand dunes in North America and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing. The town is also close to the Zapata Falls, a beautiful waterfall nestled in a rocky canyon near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Mosca’s combination of agricultural heritage and proximity to natural wonders makes it an important community in Alamosa County, attracting both residents and visitors alike.
Blanca
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81123
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.4386° N, 105.5114° W
Location and History
Blanca is a small town located in the northeastern part of Alamosa County, although it is often associated with nearby Costilla County, where it is geographically located. The town was founded in 1909 as a railroad stop along the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, named after the nearby Blanca Peak, one of Colorado’s highest mountains. Blanca developed as a small agricultural community, with its economy primarily based on farming and livestock. The town’s location near the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains provides it with stunning views and access to outdoor recreation, making it a desirable location for those seeking a rural lifestyle in a beautiful natural setting.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Blanca is served by the Sierra Grande School District, with Sierra Grande School providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Major landmarks in Blanca include the historic Denver and Rio Grande Railroad Depot, which reflects the town’s origins as a railroad community, and Blanca Peak, which offers hiking and climbing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is also near the Zapata Falls, a popular natural attraction featuring a stunning waterfall hidden in a rocky crevasse. Blanca’s small-town charm, historical significance, and proximity to the mountains make it a unique and welcoming community in the region, though it is more often identified with Costilla County due to its geographical location.
Map of Cities in Alamosa County, CO
