Cities and Towns in Gunnison County, Colorado

Founded on 1877-03-09, Gunnison County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Gunnison County was split from Lake County. The city of Gunnison is the county seat. With FIPS code of 51, Gunnison County has a population of 17,281 and area of 3,259.22 square miles (8,441 km²).

List of all cities in Gunnison County, CO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Almont, CO 81210 970
Baldwin, CO 81230 970
Bear Mine, CO 81434 970
Cement Creek, CO 81224 970
Crested Butte, CO 81224 970
81225 970
Doyleville, CO 81230 970
Gunnison, CO 81230 970
81231 970
81247 970
Iola, CO 81230 970
Jacks Cabin, CO 81210 970
Meridian Lake, CO 81225 970
Mount Crested Butte, CO 81225 970
Ohio City, CO 81237 719
Parlin, CO 81237 719
81239 970
Pitkin, CO 81241 970
Powderhorn, CO 81243 970
Rainbow, CO 81210 970
Riverbend, CO 81225 970
Salida, CO 81237 719
Sapinero, CO 81247 970
Skyland, CO 81225 970
Somerset, CO 81434 970
Spring Creek, CO 81210 970
Taylor Park, CO 81210 970
Taylor Park, CO 81230 970
Tincup, CO 81210 970
Western State College, CO 81231 970
Windy Point, CO 81247 970

Major Cities and Towns in Gunnison County, Colorado

Gunnison

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 4.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 6,600 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81230, 81231, 81247
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.5458° N, 106.9253° W

Location and History

Gunnison is the county seat and largest city in Gunnison County, situated in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. The city is located in the broad Gunnison Valley, surrounded by mountain ranges, making it a gateway to some of Colorado’s most stunning natural landscapes. Gunnison was established in 1853 and named after John W. Gunnison, a U.S. Army officer and explorer who surveyed the area. The city grew during the late 19th century due to mining, ranching, and the arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. Gunnison’s history is deeply intertwined with the development of the American West, from its early mining days to its current status as a hub for outdoor recreation and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gunnison is home to Western Colorado University, which plays a significant role in the local economy and culture. Gunnison High School and Gunnison Community School serve the town’s K-12 students. Major landmarks include the Gunnison Pioneer Museum, which showcases the region’s rich history, and the nearby Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado, offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. The Gunnison National Forest surrounds the city, providing countless trails for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in winter, making Gunnison a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.

Crested Butte

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,700 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81224, 81225
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.8697° N, 106.9878° W

Location and History

Crested Butte, often called the “Last Great Colorado Ski Town,” is located about 28 miles north of Gunnison. The town was originally established in the 1880s as a supply town for nearby coal mines. Its picturesque setting in the Elk Mountains has made it a popular destination for outdoor activities, particularly skiing. Crested Butte’s history is rooted in both mining and its evolution into a premier ski destination. The town has maintained much of its Victorian architecture and historic charm, offering a glimpse into its past while providing modern amenities for residents and tourists. The area is known for its vibrant arts community and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crested Butte Community School, serving K-12 students, is the main educational institution in the town. Significant landmarks include the Crested Butte Mountain Resort, which offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking during the summer. The Crested Butte Heritage Museum provides insights into the town’s mining and skiing history. Additionally, the surrounding wilderness areas, including the West Elk Mountains and Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, offer some of the best hiking and scenery in Colorado, making Crested Butte a year-round destination for nature lovers.

Marble

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81623
  • Latitude and Longitude: 39.0714° N, 107.1895° W

Location and History

Marble is a small town located in the northern part of Gunnison County, nestled in the Crystal River Valley. The town is famous for its marble quarries, which produced the marble used in the Lincoln Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C. Established in the late 19th century, Marble grew as a result of the demand for high-quality marble, with the Colorado-Yule Marble Company being a major employer. The town experienced a boom-and-bust cycle, with the quarrying industry declining in the early 20th century. Today, Marble is a quiet community that attracts visitors interested in its unique history and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Marble does not have its own school system, so students typically attend schools in nearby towns like Carbondale. Significant landmarks include the historic marble quarries and the Marble Mill Site Park, where visitors can explore the remnants of the once-thriving marble industry. The town is also close to the famous Crystal Mill, one of the most photographed historic sites in Colorado. Marble is surrounded by the White River National Forest, providing ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the rugged terrain that defines this region.

Pitkin

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81241
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.6083° N, 106.5144° W

Location and History

Pitkin is a small, historic town located in the heart of Gunnison County, about 28 miles east of Gunnison. Founded in 1879 during the Colorado Silver Boom, Pitkin was the first mining camp west of the Continental Divide. The town was named after Colorado Governor Frederick W. Pitkin. At its peak, Pitkin was a bustling mining town with several thousand residents. However, like many mining towns, Pitkin’s fortunes declined with the fall in silver prices. Today, Pitkin is a quiet, rural community that retains its historical charm, with many original buildings still intact. The town is a popular destination for those interested in Colorado’s mining history and outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pitkin does not have its own schools; children typically attend school in Gunnison or other nearby areas. Landmarks in Pitkin include the Pitkin Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the town’s mining past, and numerous historic buildings from the late 19th century. The town is also a gateway to the Gunnison National Forest, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, ATV riding, and snowmobiling. Quartz Creek, which flows through the town, provides excellent fishing opportunities, and the surrounding mountains offer scenic views and opportunities to explore the Colorado backcountry.

Map of Cities in Gunnison County, CO

Map of Cities in Gunnison County, CO