Cities and Towns in Las Animas County, Colorado

Founded on 1866-02-09, Las Animas County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Las Animas County was split from Huerfano County. The city of Trinidad is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Las Animas County has a population of 14,633 and area of 4,773.27 square miles (12,363 km²).

List of all cities in Las Animas County, CO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Aguilar, CO	81020	719
Beshoar Jct, CO	81082	719
Boncarbo, CO	81024	719
Branson, CO	81027	719
Cokedale, CO	81082	719
Delhi, CO	81059	719
East Weston, CO	81091	719
El Moro, CO	81082	719
Hoehne, CO	81046	719
Jansen, CO	81082	719
Kim, CO	81049	719
Ludlow, CO	81082	719
Model, CO	81059	719
Monument Lake Park, CO	81091	719
Pinon Canyon, CO	81082	719
Segundo, CO	81082	719
Sopris, CO	81082	719
Starkville, CO	81082	719
Stonewall, CO	81091	719
Tercio, CO	81091	719
Thatcher, CO	81059	719
Torres Canon, CO	81091	719
Trinchera, CO	81081	719
Trinidad, CO	81082	719
Tyrone, CO	81059	719
Vigil, CO	81091	719
Villegreen, CO	81049	719
Weston, CO	81091	719

Major Cities and Towns in Las Animas County, Colorado

Trinidad

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 9.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 8,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 81082
• Latitude: 37.1694° N
• Longitude: 104.5061° W

City Location and History

Trinidad is the county seat and largest city in Las Animas County, located in southern Colorado near the New Mexico border. Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Trinidad was founded in 1862 and quickly became a significant stop on the Santa Fe Trail. The town developed as a trading post and later grew into a key coal mining center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting a diverse population of European immigrants. The city’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved Victorian architecture, particularly along Main Street. Trinidad’s economy, once heavily dependent on coal mining, has diversified over the years, with tourism, healthcare, and education playing significant roles today. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, which has attracted artists and creatives to the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Trinidad is served by the Trinidad School District 1, with Trinidad High School being the primary secondary institution. The city is also home to Trinidad State College, the oldest community college in Colorado, offering a wide range of academic and vocational programs. Major landmarks in Trinidad include the Trinidad History Museum, which offers exhibits on the city’s past, including its role in the Santa Fe Trail and coal mining industry. The A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art showcases a significant collection of Western art and artifacts. The Trinidad Lake State Park, located just outside the city, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. Trinidad’s blend of historical significance, educational resources, and cultural attractions makes it the heart of Las Animas County.

Aguilar

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 0.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 500 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 81020
• Latitude: 37.4028° N
• Longitude: 104.6519° W

City Location and History

Aguilar is a small town located in the western part of Las Animas County, about 20 miles north of Trinidad. The town was founded in 1894 by José Ramon Aguilar, a prominent local rancher and businessman, after whom the town is named. Aguilar developed as a coal mining town, with several mines operating in the surrounding area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s economy was historically tied to the coal industry, which attracted a diverse population of immigrants seeking work in the mines. Although the coal industry has since declined, Aguilar has retained its small-town charm and strong sense of community, with a focus on agriculture and ranching.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Aguilar is served by the Aguilar Reorganized School District RE-6, with Aguilar High School providing education for local students. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Aguilar School, which has served the community for over a century, and the Aguilar Museum, which offers exhibits on the town’s coal mining history and cultural heritage. The nearby Spanish Peaks provide a stunning backdrop to the town and offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Aguilar’s annual events, such as the Fiesta Day celebration, highlight the town’s cultural heritage and bring the community together for parades, music, and local cuisine. Aguilar’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and natural beauty makes it a unique and cherished part of Las Animas County.

Walsenburg

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 2.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 3,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 81089
• Latitude: 37.6244° N
• Longitude: 104.7800° W

City Location and History

Walsenburg, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Spanish Peaks,” is located in the northern part of Las Animas County, serving as a key community in the region. The town was originally established in 1873 as a coal mining settlement and was named after Fred Walsen, one of its founding residents and a prominent businessman. Walsenburg quickly grew as a result of the booming coal industry, attracting a diverse population of European immigrants who worked in the mines. The town played a significant role in the labor movement during the early 20th century, with notable events such as the Ludlow Massacre taking place nearby. Today, Walsenburg has shifted away from mining and has become known for its historic architecture, outdoor recreation opportunities, and close proximity to the Spanish Peaks and Lathrop State Park.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Walsenburg is served by the Huerfano School District RE-1, with John Mall High School being the primary secondary institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Walsenburg Mining Museum, which offers exhibits on the town’s coal mining history and its role in the labor movement. The Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, a significant employer in the area, provides healthcare services to the community. Lathrop State Park, Colorado’s first state park, is located just west of Walsenburg and offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, camping, and hiking, with stunning views of the Spanish Peaks. The town’s annual events, such as the Spanish Peaks International Celtic Music Festival, celebrate its cultural heritage and attract visitors from across the region. Walsenburg’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and access to outdoor activities makes it an important community in Las Animas County.

Starkville

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 0.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 81082
• Latitude: 37.1211° N
• Longitude: 104.5106° W

City Location and History

Starkville is a small town located just south of Trinidad, near the Colorado-New Mexico border. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a coal mining camp and was named after Albert G. Stark, a prominent mine operator in the area. Starkville developed as a company town, with its economy heavily reliant on the coal mines that operated nearby. The town experienced significant growth during the early 20th century, but like many mining communities, it faced decline as the coal industry waned. Today, Starkville is a quiet residential community with a rich history, offering a peaceful environment for its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Starkville is served by the Trinidad School District 1, with students attending schools in nearby Trinidad. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Starkville Church, a symbol of the town’s enduring community spirit, and the surrounding natural landscapes that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Trinidad Lake State Park provides a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking, with scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Starkville’s small size and close proximity to Trinidad allow residents to enjoy the amenities of a larger city while maintaining a quiet, rural lifestyle. The town’s historical significance as a former coal mining community, combined with its tranquil setting, makes Starkville a unique part of Las Animas County.

Map of Cities in Las Animas County, CO