A New Destination Remains Unchanged...

Park County’s enduring heritage defines the area and attracts visitors who value authenticity. The Governor designated this region as an official State Heritage Area in 1997 and proclaimed it to be one of the finest resource areas of Colorado and the West. As other mountain communities lose their heritage appeal, this area becomes an attractive vacation destination.

The 1874 Park County Courthouse in Fairplay now serves as a public library

The history of Park County is not merely preserved in glass cases; it covers the rural landscape and invites exploration. Accommodations include 19 historic ranch and guest lodges, hotels, and country inns.  Many of these properties are heritage experiences in their own right. Virtually all lodging is in close proximity to museums, galleries, driving tours, or natural/scenic areas, as well as a plethora of outdoor recreation sites.

Dozens of pioneer dwellings still grace Park County's peaks and valleys

Auto tour brochures have been developed for seven different scenic & historic routes in Park County.  Along the way are interpretive pullouts, roadside exhibits and/or sign posts corresponding to 70 notable sites that exemplify our high altitude history and natural history (Please see "Historic Driving Tours" under Heritage Attractions).

Some trees in Park County are over 2000 years old

Among the oldest heritage sites in Park County are stands of bristlecone pine trees that took root during the first century and are still growing at elevations above 11,000 feet.  Also found in the region are rare (endemic) plant communities found nowhere else on earth (see "Natural/Scenic Areas" under Heritage Attractions).