Cities and Towns in Dolores County, Colorado
Founded on 1881-03-04, Dolores County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Dolores County was split from Ouray County. The city of Dove Creek is the county seat. With FIPS code of 33, Dolores County has a population of 2,397 and area of 1,076.93 square miles (2,789 km²).
List of all cities in Dolores County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cahone, CO | 81320 | 970 |
| Dove Creek, CO | 81324 | 970 |
| Rico, CO | 81332 | 970 |
| Squaw Point, CO | 81324 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Dolores County, Colorado
Dove Creek
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81324
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.7669° N, 108.9042° W
Location and History
Dove Creek is the county seat and the largest town in Dolores County, located in the western part of Colorado near the Utah border. The town was established in the early 20th century and named after the nearby Dove Creek. Historically, Dove Creek developed as an agricultural community, with its economy primarily based on farming and ranching. The area is particularly known for producing pinto beans, earning it the title of the “Pinto Bean Capital of the World.” Over the years, Dove Creek has maintained its rural character, with wide-open spaces and a close-knit community. The town serves as the primary service center for the surrounding agricultural region, providing essential amenities and services to its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dove Creek is served by the Dolores County School District, with Dove Creek High School and Dove Creek Elementary School being the main educational institutions. Major landmarks in the area include the Dolores County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government. The town is also near the San Juan National Forest, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the Anasazi Heritage Center, located a short drive away, provides insights into the ancient Native American cultures that once inhabited the region. Dove Creek’s agricultural roots and scenic surroundings make it a quintessential small town in rural Colorado.
Rico
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.0 square mile
- Population: Approximately 250 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81332
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.6928° N, 108.0317° W
Location and History
Rico is a small town located in the southern part of Dolores County, nestled in the San Juan Mountains along the Dolores River. The town was founded in the 1870s as a mining camp during Colorado’s silver boom. Rico quickly grew into a bustling mining town, with a population of over 5,000 at its peak in the late 19th century. The town’s name, which means “rich” in Spanish, reflects the wealth generated from the nearby mines. However, like many mining towns, Rico’s prosperity was short-lived, and the population dwindled as the silver mines were depleted. Today, Rico is a quiet mountain town with a rich history and a picturesque setting, attracting visitors interested in its historic charm and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rico is part of the Dolores County School District, though students typically travel to nearby towns like Dove Creek for education. Major landmarks in Rico include the historic Rico Town Hall and several well-preserved Victorian-era buildings that harken back to the town’s mining heyday. The town is also surrounded by the San Juan National Forest, offering abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring old mining trails. Rico’s location along the San Juan Skyway, a scenic byway, makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the stunning landscapes of southwestern Colorado. The town’s blend of history and natural beauty makes Rico a unique and serene destination in Dolores County.
Cahone
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: N/A (unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81320
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.6711° N, 108.7464° W
Location and History
Cahone is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Dolores County, along U.S. Highway 491. The community was established in the early 20th century and named after the nearby Cahone Mesa. Cahone has historically been an agricultural area, with its economy centered around farming and ranching. The community is known for its rural character, with expansive farmlands and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. While Cahone does not have the formal infrastructure of an incorporated town, it serves as a home to a tight-knit community that values its agricultural roots and the surrounding natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cahone is served by the Dolores County School District, with students typically attending schools in Dove Creek. The area around Cahone is characterized by its open landscapes, making it an ideal location for those interested in farming, ranching, and outdoor activities. Major landmarks near Cahone include the expansive fields and mesas that define the region, as well as the nearby Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, which preserves a vast landscape rich in Native American archaeological sites. The community’s proximity to public lands offers opportunities for hiking, exploring ancient ruins, and experiencing the rugged beauty of southwestern Colorado. Despite its small size, Cahone embodies the spirit of rural life in Dolores County, with a focus on agriculture and a deep connection to the land.
Map of Cities in Dolores County, CO
