Cities and Towns in Montrose County, Colorado
Founded on 1883-02-11, Montrose County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Montrose County was split from Gunnison County. The city of Montrose is the county seat. With FIPS code of 85, Montrose County has a population of 43,168 and area of 2,246.43 square miles (5,818 km²).
List of all cities in Montrose County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bedrock, CO | 81411 | 970 |
| Cimarron, CO | 81220 | 970 |
| Colona, CO | 81401 | 970 |
| Montrose, CO | 81401 | 970 |
| 81402 | 970 | |
| 81403 | 970 | |
| Naturita, CO | 81422 | 970 |
| Nucla, CO | 81424 | 970 |
| Olathe, CO | 81425 | 970 |
| Paradox, CO | 81429 | 970 |
| Redvale, CO | 81431 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Montrose County, Colorado
Montrose
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 18.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 21,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81401, 81402, 81403
- Latitude: 38.4783° N
- Longitude: 107.8762° W
City Location and History
Montrose is the county seat and largest city in Montrose County, located in the western part of Colorado on the Uncompahgre River. The city was founded in 1882 as a supply hub for nearby mining communities, particularly those in the San Juan Mountains. It was named after Sir Walter Scott’s novel “A Legend of Montrose.” The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad reached Montrose in 1882, significantly boosting its growth by facilitating the transportation of goods and people. The development of agriculture, particularly fruit orchards and livestock farming, further solidified Montrose as a regional economic center. Over the years, Montrose has grown into a vibrant community, balancing its historical roots with modern amenities. The city serves as a gateway to some of Colorado’s most stunning natural attractions, including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Montrose is served by the Montrose County School District RE-1J, with Montrose High School being the primary secondary institution. The city’s major landmarks include the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located just east of Montrose, which offers breathtaking views of the steep and dramatic canyon walls carved by the Gunnison River. The Montrose Historical Museum, housed in a former Denver & Rio Grande Railroad depot, provides insights into the region’s history, including its mining, agricultural, and railroad heritage. The Ute Indian Museum, located just outside Montrose, celebrates the culture and history of the Ute people, who were the original inhabitants of the area. Montrose also hosts the annual Main in Motion street fair, featuring live music, local vendors, and community activities, highlighting the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Montrose’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and access to natural beauty makes it the heart of Montrose County.
Olathe
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81425
- Latitude: 38.6103° N
- Longitude: 107.9787° W
City Location and History
Olathe is a small town located in the northern part of Montrose County, approximately 10 miles north of Montrose. The town was established in 1882 and was named after Olathe, Kansas, reflecting the origins of some of its early settlers. Olathe developed as an agricultural community, particularly known for its production of sweet corn, which is celebrated annually during the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. The town’s economy has long been tied to agriculture, with farming and ranching serving as the primary sources of income. Over the years, Olathe has maintained its rural charm and agricultural roots, becoming a close-knit community that values its heritage and traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Olathe is served by the Montrose County School District RE-1J, with Olathe High School providing education for local students. The town’s major landmarks include the Olathe Town Park, which serves as a central gathering place for community events, including the famous Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. This annual event attracts visitors from across the region and celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with live music, food vendors, and, of course, plenty of sweet corn. The surrounding farmland and orchards provide a scenic backdrop for the town, reflecting its strong agricultural identity. Olathe’s combination of rural charm, educational resources, and community events makes it a significant town in Montrose County.
Naturita
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81422
- Latitude: 38.2172° N
- Longitude: 108.5503° W
City Location and History
Naturita is a small town located in the western part of Montrose County, near the confluence of the San Miguel and Dolores Rivers. The town was established in the early 20th century as a mining community, with its name derived from the Spanish word for “little nature.” Naturita played a significant role in the uranium mining boom of the mid-20th century, supplying uranium ore for the United States’ nuclear programs during and after World War II. The town’s economy was heavily reliant on mining, but as the demand for uranium decreased, Naturita faced economic challenges. Today, Naturita is a quiet, rural town known for its scenic surroundings and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Naturita is served by the West End School District RE-2, with students attending nearby Nucla High School. The town’s major landmarks include the Naturita Town Park, which provides recreational facilities and serves as a gathering place for local events. The nearby Paradox Valley and San Miguel River offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, rafting, and hiking, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Naturita’s proximity to the Uncompahgre National Forest and the Dolores River Canyon adds to its appeal as a destination for those looking to explore Colorado’s rugged wilderness. Naturita’s combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and rural charm makes it an important part of Montrose County.
Nucla
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81424
- Latitude: 38.2700° N
- Longitude: 108.5450° W
City Location and History
Nucla is a small town located in the western part of Montrose County, near Naturita. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a cooperative farming colony, with the name “Nucla” derived from the word “nucleus,” reflecting the founders’ vision of creating a central community for cooperative living. Nucla later became a hub for uranium mining, particularly during the mid-20th century when demand for uranium was high. The town’s economy was heavily tied to the mining industry, but like Naturita, Nucla faced economic challenges as the demand for uranium declined. Today, Nucla is a quiet, rural town that retains its historical character and connection to the surrounding landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nucla is also served by the West End School District RE-2, with Nucla High School being the primary educational institution for the area. The town’s major landmarks include the Nucla Town Park, which offers recreational facilities and is a focal point for community events. The nearby Tabeguache Trail, part of the larger Paradox Trail system, provides opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and exploring the rugged terrain of the region. The historic downtown area of Nucla reflects the town’s past, with several buildings dating back to its early days as a mining community. Nucla’s combination of historical roots, outdoor activities, and small-town charm makes it a unique and significant community in Montrose County.
Map of Cities in Montrose County, CO
