Hahn's Peak from Steamboat Lake State park.

Narrow Window Photography/Shutterstock


On the windswept plain at the base of a picturesque peak lies this quasi–ghost town, 27 miles north of Steamboat Springs via Elk River Rd (Routt County Rd 129). It was once the terminus of the railroad from Wyoming, and has a rich history as a secluded harbor for outlaws. (Rumor has it that Butch Cassidy was jailed here in a bear cage.)

It’s an unfrequented destination that still has a handful of residents and a couple of interesting junk and crafts shops. Nearby Steamboat Lake State Park and Pearl Lake State Park are both developed state parks on the side of reservoirs with shoreline camping, some short hiking trails and opportunities for fishing and boating.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Pearl Lake State Park

2.48 MILES

A glorious spot for camping and canoeing, this small alpine lake backs up to aspen and evergreen forests, and has some excellent lake-front campsites ($20…

2. Steamboat Lake State Park

3.49 MILES

If you like boating, fishing and bird-watching, this is an incredible place to stay. The campsites ($20 to $26) on the water are pretty good, but could be…

3. Mount Zirkel Wilderness

8.76 MILES

One of the five original wilderness areas in Colorado, Mount Zirkel Wilderness is an untamed, roadless expanse dotted with icy glacial lakes and granite…

4. Bud Werner Memorial Library

23.01 MILES

A perfect indoor break for families, this library has awesome interactive games in the kids' area, a sweet fish tank, free wi-fi and story time. Oh yeah,…

5. Tread of Pioneers Museum

23.14 MILES

A favorite among the area’s community history museums, these restored Victorian homes host an even-handed display about the history of the Native…

6. Fish Creek Falls

23.93 MILES

Just 5 miles out of town, Fish Creek Falls is a wonderful hike for families. The 0.8-mile loop takes you to a scenic overlook with views across to the…