Meeker Colorado

Meeker, Colorado is the county seat and the most populous town of Rio Blanco County. Their motto is “The river runs through it.” Of course, the river referred to is the White River which is in a wide, fertile valley in northwest Colorado. On the north side of the river is the town of Meeker, which was named for a 19th century U.S. journalist and Indian agent for the federal government. In 1870 he founded the Union Colony which is a cooperative agricultural colony in Greeley, Colorado. He is best remembered for inciting an uprising of the Ute Indians which resulted in his own death and that of 11 other U.S. army soldiers in the “Meeker Massacre” in 1879. The town bears his name, as does the nearby Mount Meeker which is located near Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park not far from Allenspark, Colorado.

More Town Facts

Region: Northwest	County: Rio Blanco
Latitude: 40.039539	Longitude: -107.910709	Elevation: 6,240 ft (1,902 m)

The town of Meeker is largely an agricultural community, near the intersection of State Highway 13 and State Highway 64, at the base of a long ridge, known locally as China Wall. The Meeker Massacre took place along State Highway 64 in the White River valley east of town and is marked by a prominent sign. After the massacre and the ensuing conflict known as the Ute War, the Ute population was forced to relocate to reservations in Utah and the United States Army established a garrison on the current site of the town. The town was founded in 1883 following the removal of the troops. By the turn of the 20th century, the town was becoming a regional center for hunting. There is a large population of many animals and birds in the area. Famous visitors to Meeker include President Theodore Roosevelt who was there on a mountain lion hunting trip and many others who enjoyed the summertime destination.

For visitors who enjoy sightseeing, the meadows have longhorn cattle, you may see Bald Eagles which nest year round, Golden Eagles soaring on a 7 foot wingspan, and even observe the native “Wapiti”. Meeker and the surrounding areas are also very popular with hunters who pursue antelope, mule deer, mountain lion and black bear, or want to see the largest elk herd in America. For something extraordinary, Peruvian sheepherders who come into town on occasion will provide a look into a fascinating culture. If you enjoy fishing, there are Rainbow Trout in the White River, and a wonderful scenic drive should include the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway and The White River National Forest, which are only 30 miles away.

Current Meeker Colorado Weather Forecast

Meeker Local Attractions

The White River Museum is located at 565 Park Street, behind the red flagstone Rio Blanco County Courthouse, one block from downtown Meeker. It’s housed in several original wooden structures of the Army garrison from the 1800′s. Learn about the history of the town beginning with Nathan C. Meeker and family for whom the town is named. Residents of Meeker who became legendary include Rory White, the stagecoach driver between Rifle and Meeker – known for always wearing a bear hide coat, Chief Colorow of the Ute Indian tribe and more.

Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway: Visitors to Northwest Colorado are encouraged to trace the footsteps of this area’s original residents, the Ute Indian tribes who roamed the country they called “The Shining Mountains”. The Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway joins Colorado Hwy 13 approximately one mile east of Meeker at Rio Blanco County Road 8. The route extends along County Road 8 to Ripple Creek Pass, then over the pass and down into the village of Yampa, a total of 81 miles.

The Blanco Ranger District has 111 miles of streams, 757 acres of natural lakes, 9 campgrounds, 17 trailheads, 250 miles of hiking trails, 280 miles of snowmobile trails and 25 acres of reservoirs providing a variety of fishing opportunities. There are also ample opportunities for the cross country skier. You’ll also find challenging bike trails offering spectacular views of the Flat Tops.

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.