Cotopaxi Colorado
Cotopaxi, Colorado is located in Fremont County, about 33 miles from Canon City and lies along the Arkansas River. A small community, it has a population of just over 3,200 residents, and sits along the highway that goes into Salida. Many tourists pass through this area, and enjoy the fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the Arkansas River. So many rafters, whitewater enthusiasts and kayaks pass by along the river, a visitor is sure to see some during their journey up the Arkansas River Valley. The area in the Bighorn Sheep Canyon is near Cotopaxi and provides views of rugged cliffs and towering rock formations to enjoy.
More Town Facts
| Region: South Central | County: Fremont | |
| Latitude: 38.371002 | Longitude: -105.687275 | Elevation: 6,362 ft (1,939 m) |
In the late 1800′s the little town of Cotopaxi was a mere whistle-stop on the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad. As with most of Colorado’s historic mountain towns, this one began it’s modern era with the Gold Rush of the 1860′s. A prospector named Henry Thomas or “Gold Tom” to his friends – left the Central City area in 1867, made his way across the Continental Divide and ended up in the Upper Arkansas Valley around Salida in 1870. This is the same time that the Rio Grande Railroad was plotting a route for transcontinental travel through the same area. To earn additional income while prospecting, Henry “Gold Tom” worked for the railroad scouting out timber locations for the railroad ties, which took him into the valley he thought looked much like an favorite area in Ecuador he had known. The most well known feature of that region was the highest active volcano in the world named Cotopaxi 5. He named the area Cotopaxi in remembrance of that area. He is credited with discovering the Cotopaxi Lode, which was one of the richest silver and zinc deposits in Fremont County.
Today, this town on the Arkansas River is known for world-class whitewater rafting. Cotopaxi is home to rafting outfitters and a campground. Another favored location along the river is Pinnacle Rock State Recreation area which is located in the Bighorn Sheep Canyon and has stunning views of towering cliffs. Local rafting tours, of a few hours up to six days, travel and tour the state’s most popular whitewater river, enjoying many different types of rafting along the way toward the Royal Gorge. Cotopaxi has grown over the years to include hotels, shops and diners, book stores and geological shops, antique shops and trading posts. The yearly whitewater rafting festival known as FIBark passes through and is enjoyed by all in this welcoming little town.
Cotopaxi Local Attractions
Arkansas River – Most of the outdoor entertainment in this area revolves around the water activity on the Arkansas River. Many rafting companies will assist you in making the most of your outdoor adventure, from easy and calm water trips, to challenging whitewater – all the way from Salida to Royal Gorge.
| Of course there are lots of other things to do and see in the area! Click on any of the links below to find more activities. |
Cotopaxi Photo Gallery
Directions to Cotopaxi Colorado
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