Cities and Towns in Lincoln County, Colorado

Founded on 1889-04-11, Lincoln County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Lincoln County was split from Elbert and Bent counties. The city of Hugo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Lincoln County has a population of 5,688 and area of 2,585.21 square miles (6,696 km²).

List of all cities in Lincoln County, CO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Arriba, CO 80804 719
Bovina, CO 80818 719
Boyero, CO 80821 719
Genoa, CO 80818 719
Hugo, CO 80821 719
Karval, CO 80823 719
Limon, CO 80826 719
80828 719
Limon Correctional Facility, CO 80826 719
Punkin Center, CO 80821 719

Major Cities and Towns in Lincoln County, Colorado

Hugo

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 0.9 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 750 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 80821
  • Latitude: 39.1364° N
  • Longitude: 103.4663° W

City Location and History

Hugo is the county seat of Lincoln County, located in the eastern plains of Colorado, along the Big Sandy Creek. Founded in 1870, Hugo was originally established as a ranching community and a crucial stop on the Kansas Pacific Railway. The town was named after Hugo Richards, a local landowner and cattleman. Hugo quickly developed as a hub for cattle ranching, and its location on the railway made it an important center for shipping cattle and other agricultural products to markets across the country. Over the years, Hugo has maintained its small-town charm, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and ranching, while also serving as the administrative center of Lincoln County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hugo is served by the Genoa-Hugo School District, with Genoa-Hugo School providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town’s major landmarks include the Lincoln County Courthouse, a historic building that has served as the center of government since the early 1900s. The Hugo Union Pacific Roundhouse, built in 1909, is another key landmark, representing the town’s rich railroad history; it’s one of the few remaining roundhouses in Colorado and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hugo’s annual Lincoln County Fair is a significant event, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, rodeo events, and community activities. Hugo’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and rural charm makes it the heart of Lincoln County.

Limon

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 3.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,900 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 80828
  • Latitude: 39.2633° N
  • Longitude: 103.6927° W

City Location and History

Limon is the largest town in Lincoln County, located at the intersection of several major highways, including I-70, U.S. 24, U.S. 40, and U.S. 287, earning it the nickname “The Hub City.” Founded in 1888 as a railroad town, Limon was named after John Limon, a railroad construction supervisor. The town quickly grew as a key transportation and agricultural center, serving as a hub for the shipment of livestock, grain, and other agricultural products. Limon’s strategic location made it an important stop for travelers and a center for commerce in the region. Today, Limon continues to play a vital role as a transportation and service center, while also offering a range of amenities and services to residents and visitors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Limon is served by the Limon School District RE-4J, with Limon Junior-Senior High School being the primary secondary institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Limon Heritage Museum and Railroad Park, which offers exhibits on the town’s history, including its railroad and agricultural roots. The museum complex includes a restored 1910 Rock Island Railroad Depot, a one-room schoolhouse, and several other historic buildings. The town is also known for its recreational facilities, including the Limon Wetlands, a popular spot for birdwatching and nature walks. The annual Limon Heritage Festival celebrates the town’s history and community spirit with parades, live music, and local crafts. Limon’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and strategic location makes it a key community in Lincoln County.

Arriba

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 0.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 200 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 80804
  • Latitude: 39.2875° N
  • Longitude: 103.2764° W

City Location and History

Arriba is a small town located in the northeastern part of Lincoln County, along Interstate 70. The town was founded in 1888 as a station on the Rock Island Railroad and was named after the Spanish word for “up” or “above,” possibly referencing its location on the high plains. Arriba developed as an agricultural community, with its economy centered around farming and ranching. The town’s location along the railroad made it an important shipping point for agricultural products, particularly wheat and livestock. Over the years, Arriba has retained its small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its agricultural heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Arriba is part of the Genoa-Hugo School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Hugo. The town’s major landmarks include the Arriba Town Hall, which serves as a community center and gathering place for local events. The surrounding farmland is a defining feature of the town, reflecting its deep roots in agriculture. Arriba’s annual events, such as the Arriba Fall Festival, celebrate the town’s heritage with parades, games, and community dinners. The nearby Lincoln County Fairgrounds, located just outside of Arriba, hosts various events throughout the year, including rodeos and livestock shows. Arriba’s combination of rural charm, community spirit, and agricultural significance makes it a valued part of Lincoln County.

Genoa

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 0.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 80818
  • Latitude: 39.2775° N
  • Longitude: 103.4981° W

City Location and History

Genoa is a small town located in the central part of Lincoln County, along U.S. Highway 24. Founded in 1904, Genoa was named after the Italian city of Genoa by an early settler who was impressed by the area’s potential for farming. The town developed as an agricultural community, with its economy centered around farming, particularly wheat and corn production. Genoa’s location along the highway made it a convenient stop for travelers, and the town’s small size has allowed it to maintain a close-knit, rural character over the years.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Genoa is served by the Genoa-Hugo School District, with Genoa-Hugo School providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town’s major landmarks include the Genoa Tower, a quirky roadside attraction built in the 1920s that offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and distant mountain ranges. The tower is part of the larger Wonder View complex, which includes a museum filled with eclectic collections of antiques and curiosities. Genoa’s annual events, such as the community barbecue and holiday celebrations, reflect the town’s strong sense of community and pride in its heritage. The surrounding agricultural landscape is a testament to Genoa’s farming roots, providing a peaceful and scenic environment for its residents. Genoa’s combination of rural charm, educational resources, and unique attractions makes it a distinctive and important part of Lincoln County.

Map of Cities in Lincoln County, CO

Map of Cities in Lincoln County, CO