Cities and Towns in Garfield County, Colorado
Founded on 1883-02-10, Garfield County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Garfield County was split from Summit County. The city of Glenwood Springs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Garfield County has a population of 62,161 and area of 2,958.23 square miles (7,662 km²).
List of all cities in Garfield County, CO alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Antlers, CO | 81650 | 970 |
Battlement Mesa, CO | 81635 | 970 |
81636 | 970 | |
Carbondale, CO | 81623 | 970 |
Cardiff, CO | 81601 | 970 |
Crystal, CO | 81623 | 970 |
El Jebel, CO | 81623 | 970 |
Glenwood, CO | 81601 | 970 |
81602 | 970 | |
Glenwood Springs, CO | 81601 | 970 |
81602 | 970 | |
Grand Valley, CO | 81635 | 970 |
Marble, CO | 81623 | 970 |
New Castle, CO | 81647 | 970 |
No Name, CO | 81601 | 970 |
Parachute, CO | 81635 | 970 |
81636 | 970 | |
Redstone, CO | 81623 | 970 |
Rifle, CO | 81650 | 970 |
Rio Blanco, CO | 81650 | 970 |
Rulison, CO | 81635 | 970 |
81650 | 970 | |
Silt, CO | 81652 | 970 |
West Glenwood, CO | 81601 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Garfield County, Colorado
Glenwood Springs
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 5.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81601, 81602
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.5505° N, 107.3248° W
Location and History
Glenwood Springs, the county seat of Garfield County, is located at the confluence of the Roaring Fork River and the Colorado River. Known for its natural hot springs, the town was founded in 1885 and quickly became a popular destination for health and wellness. Glenwood Springs was initially named Defiance but was later renamed in honor of the lush glen and the abundant springs in the area. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred growth, making it a central hub in western Colorado. Today, Glenwood Springs is renowned for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, rafting, and skiing, as well as its historic charm and unique attractions like the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Glenwood Springs is served by the Roaring Fork School District, with Glenwood Springs High School and Glenwood Springs Middle School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks include the historic Hotel Colorado, which has hosted famous guests such as Teddy Roosevelt, and the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world. The town is also home to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, a mountain-top theme park with caves to explore and thrill rides, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Hanging Lake, a National Natural Landmark, is another popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Rifle
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 4.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,900 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81650
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.5347° N, 107.7822° W
Location and History
Rifle is located along the Colorado River, approximately 25 miles west of Glenwood Springs. The town was established in 1882 and was named after a rifle left behind by an early trapper at a local creek, now known as Rifle Creek. Rifle’s history is closely tied to agriculture, ranching, and later, energy development, including oil and natural gas. The town has grown steadily over the years, serving as a regional center for commerce and industry in the western part of Garfield County. Today, Rifle maintains a small-town feel while offering modern amenities and serving as a gateway to outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking in the nearby Rifle Gap State Park and the White River National Forest.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rifle is part of the Garfield School District Re-2, with Rifle High School and Rifle Middle School serving the local student population. Significant landmarks in and around Rifle include the Rifle Falls State Park, known for its beautiful triple waterfall and limestone caves, and the Rifle Mountain Park, a popular destination for rock climbing and ice climbing. The town also hosts the annual Garfield County Fair and Rodeo, which draws visitors from across the region. Additionally, Rifle Gap State Park offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, making Rifle a hub for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
Carbondale
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,900 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81623
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.4028° N, 107.2114° W
Location and History
Carbondale is situated at the confluence of the Crystal River and the Roaring Fork River, at the base of Mount Sopris in Garfield County. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a farming and ranching community, with its name likely inspired by the coal-rich Carbondale, Pennsylvania. The area’s early economy was driven by agriculture, particularly potato farming, and coal mining. Over time, Carbondale evolved into a vibrant community known for its arts, culture, and outdoor lifestyle. The town has attracted a diverse population, including artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a small-town atmosphere with access to the natural beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carbondale is served by the Roaring Fork School District, with Roaring Fork High School and Carbondale Middle School being the primary schools. Key landmarks include Mount Sopris, which dominates the landscape and offers hiking trails with stunning views. The town is also home to the Carbondale Creative District, which highlights the local arts scene with galleries, studios, and public art installations. The Crystal River, running through town, provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking, while nearby Redstone Castle and the historic Marble Mill Site are popular destinations for history buffs. Carbondale hosts several annual events, including Mountain Fair, which celebrates the community’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Parachute
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81635
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.4527° N, 108.0542° W
Location and History
Parachute, located along the Colorado River in western Garfield County, was originally known as Grand Valley before being renamed in 1908. The town’s name comes from Parachute Creek, which was so named because early trappers thought the shape of the valley resembled a parachute. Parachute was primarily an agricultural community until the discovery of oil shale in the region led to significant energy development. The town experienced boom-and-bust cycles tied to the energy industry, particularly during the oil shale boom of the 1970s and 1980s. Despite the fluctuations in the energy sector, Parachute has maintained its small-town character and continues to serve as a key community in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Parachute is part of the Garfield School District No. 16, with Grand Valley High School and St. John Middle School serving local students. Notable landmarks include the Battlement Mesa, a prominent geological formation offering hiking and stunning views of the surrounding area. The town is also close to the Roan Plateau, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, attracting outdoor enthusiasts for hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, Parachute is home to Cottonwood Park, which hosts community events and provides recreational facilities for residents. The town’s history and connection to the energy industry are also evident in local museums and historical sites.
New Castle
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81647
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.5725° N, 107.5367° W
Location and History
New Castle is located in the western part of Garfield County, along the Colorado River, approximately 12 miles west of Glenwood Springs. The town was established in 1888 and was named after Newcastle in England, reflecting the aspirations of its founders, who were involved in the coal mining industry. New Castle quickly became a center for coal production, supplying fuel for railroads and other industries in the region. While coal mining played a crucial role in the town’s early development, the industry eventually declined, and New Castle transitioned into a residential community with a focus on outdoor recreation and small-town living. Today, New Castle is known for its scenic beauty and friendly atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
New Castle is served by the Garfield School District Re-2, with Kathryn Senor Elementary School and Riverside Middle School among the key educational institutions. Major landmarks include the Lakota Canyon Ranch, which features a championship golf course and a residential community, and the nearby Flat Tops Wilderness Area, offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in a pristine natural environment. The town also hosts Burning Mountain Park, named after a nearby coal seam fire that has been burning for over a century. This park is a popular spot for community events and outdoor activities. New Castle’s charming downtown area, with its historic buildings and local shops, reflects the town’s rich history and welcoming community spirit.