Amid the towering pines and remnants of mining days, two small Colorado towns quietly preserve the rich history of the American West. Minturn and Red Cliff are more than just places to visit — they’re vibrant testaments to a storied past, where every trail and weathered building reveals a chapter of adventure.

A TALE OF TWO TOWNS

Long before skiers carved tracks in the snow at nearby Vail and Beaver Creek, the towns of Minturn and Red Cliff were thriving hubs of mining and railroading. Red Cliff, founded in 1879, was a bustling gold and silver mining camp, while Minturn became an essential railroad stop by the early 1900s. Together, they formed a lifeline for Colorado's mining economy, their fortunes intertwined by rugged terrain and industrious pioneers.

Today, these towns have reinvented themselves as gateways to outdoor adventure, all while preserving their unique histories. In Minturn, echoes of the past blend with boutique businesses and vibrant art, while Red Cliff offers a serene escape with breathtaking views and unspoiled nature.

ADVENTURES IN EVERY SEASON

Whether you're chasing powder in winter or hiking wildflower-dotted trails in summer, Minturn and Red Cliff have you covered.

In winter, glide across Meadow Mountain on snowshoes or cross-country skis in Minturn. For adrenaline seekers, snowmobiling at Camp Hale near Red Cliff offers 360-degree vistas of the Tenmile Range and Gore Range. Cap your day with hearty mountain fare at Mango’s Mountain Grill in Red Cliff or the Minturn Saloon in Minturn.

During summer, cast a line at Homestake Creek, where rainbow trout dart through water, or hike the renowned Colorado Trail starting at Tennessee Pass. The Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, which links Minturn and Red Cliff, offers Instagram-worthy stops like the iconic Red Cliff Bridge.

For those who crave less-traveled paths, the "shoulder seasons" provide all the adventure with fewer crowds and more budget-friendly accommodations.

A COMMUNITY ROOTED IN HISTORY

The streets of Minturn and Red Cliff tell stories of resilience and reinvention. Minturn's historic downtown exudes warmth with its family-run restaurants and independent shops.

Minturn earned its reputation as the “lettuce capital of the world” with the prized Everkrisp lettuce, a product of the hard work laid by early pioneers. The community’s growth accelerated with the arrival of miners and the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in 1887.

The town’s name honors Robert Bowne Minturn Jr., a shipping magnate who helped secure funding to bring the railroad to the area and served as vice president of the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad.

Meanwhile, Red Cliff stands proudly as Eagle County’s oldest town, surrounded by cliffs of striking red sandstone. Its rustic charm and quiet pace make it a favorite for those seeking a tranquil retreat.

Whether you're savoring a cup of locally brewed coffee in Minturn or soaking in the quiet beauty of Red Cliff, you'll discover a sense of authenticity and adventure that's hard to match. So, pack your bags and head to Minturn and Red Cliff — your Rocky Mountain story is waiting to be written.

Learn more about planning your visit at visitminturnredcliff.com.

This article is a sponsored spotlight.

Two Small Towns, One Big Backyard — Discover The Charm Of Minturn And Red Cliff