Cities and Towns in Archuleta County, Colorado
Founded on 1885-04-14, Archuleta County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Archuleta County was split from Conejos County. The city of Pagosa Springs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Archuleta County has a population of 13,790 and area of 1,354.53 square miles (3,508 km²).
List of all cities in Archuleta County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arboles, CO | 81121 | 970 |
| Chimney Rock, CO | 81127 | 970 |
| Chromo, CO | 81128 | 970 |
| Navajo State Park, CO | 81121 | 970 |
| Pagosa Lakes, CO | 81147 | 970 |
| Pagosa Springs, CO | 81147 | 970 |
| 81157 | 970 | |
| Piedra, CO | 81127 | 970 |
| Piedre Park, CO | 81121 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Archuleta County, Colorado
Pagosa Springs
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 5.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81147
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.2695° N, 107.0098° W
Location and History
Pagosa Springs, the county seat and largest town in Archuleta County, is nestled in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The town was founded in the late 19th century, primarily due to the presence of natural hot springs, which have long been considered sacred by the Ute Indians. The name “Pagosa” is derived from the Ute word “Pagosah,” meaning “healing waters,” reflecting the town’s historical association with its mineral-rich springs. The town developed as a health resort, attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its hot springs. Over time, Pagosa Springs grew into a popular tourist destination, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing, as well as its stunning mountain scenery.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pagosa Springs is served by the Archuleta School District, with Pagosa Springs High School and Pagosa Springs Middle School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks in Pagosa Springs include the Pagosa Hot Springs, one of the largest and hottest natural springs in the world, and the San Juan River, which flows through the town, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing, and white-water rafting. The nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area is a major attraction for winter sports enthusiasts, boasting some of the highest snowfall in Colorado. Pagosa Springs is also home to several cultural sites, including the Fred Harman Art Museum and the Pagosa Springs History Museum, which provide insights into the town’s artistic and historical heritage. The combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural amenities make Pagosa Springs a vibrant and dynamic community in Archuleta County.
Arboles
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: N/A (unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximately 250 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81121
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.0303° N, 107.4114° W
Location and History
Arboles is a small, unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Archuleta County, near the New Mexico border. The town’s name, meaning “trees” in Spanish, reflects the area’s lush, wooded landscape. Arboles was established as a farming and ranching community, with its economy traditionally centered around agriculture and livestock. The construction of Navajo Lake and the Navajo Dam in the 1960s transformed the area, turning Arboles into a hub for outdoor recreation. The town is now known for its proximity to Navajo State Park, which offers a variety of water-based activities and attracts visitors from across the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arboles is part of the Archuleta School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Pagosa Springs. The most significant landmark in Arboles is Navajo State Park, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering scenic views of Navajo Lake and the surrounding landscape. The town’s rural setting and access to outdoor recreation make Arboles a peaceful and attractive community for those seeking a connection with nature. The area’s history as a farming community, combined with its modern role as a recreational destination, highlights the town’s adaptability and enduring appeal.
Chromo
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: N/A (unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81128
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.0386° N, 106.8992° W
Location and History
Chromo is a small, unincorporated community located in southern Archuleta County, near the Colorado-New Mexico border. The town is named after the nearby Chromo Mountain, a prominent feature in the area. Chromo was established in the late 19th century as a ranching and agricultural settlement, with its economy based on cattle ranching, farming, and timber. The area’s natural beauty, characterized by rolling hills, rivers, and forests, has long attracted those seeking a rural lifestyle. Despite its small size, Chromo has maintained its agricultural roots and continues to be a tight-knit community focused on ranching and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chromo is part of the Archuleta School District, with students typically traveling to Pagosa Springs for their education. Key landmarks in Chromo include the Navajo River, which runs through the area and offers fishing and scenic views, and the surrounding Chromo Mountain and San Juan National Forest, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, and wildlife observation. The town’s historic ranches and farms are also notable, reflecting the area’s long-standing agricultural tradition. Chromo’s remote location and pristine natural environment make it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a connection to the land, preserving the spirit of the Old West in modern times.
Map of Cities in Archuleta County, CO
