Trinidad, Colorado

Trinidad is located in southern Colorado, 85 miles (137 kilometers) south of Pueblo and just north of the New Mexico state border. It is the seat of Las Animas County, and is home to 9,078 people.

Trinidad was located on the Santa Fe Trail, and founded in 1861. After the arrival of the railroad in 1878, Trinidad flourished as a commercial, agricultural, and coalmining center.

Newcomers can hop aboard the Trinidad Trolley for a free tour of the city's historic districts, along with colorful tales from the city's past. The Trinidad History Museum is a complex that spans one city block. In the complex's Santa Fe Trail Museum, you'll find family heirlooms, historic photographs, and even a coat worn by frontiersman Kit Carson. The complex also includes Baca House, Bloom Mansion, and the historic gardens that surround both residences.

Going further back in time, the Louden-Henritze Archaeology Museum examines how the area has changed over millions of years, and features plant and marine animal fossils, dinosaur tracks, and prehistoric artifacts. The Old Firehouse No.1 Children's Museum brings history to life for little ones. Kids are welcome to explore the 1889 fire station, climb aboard the fire truck, and even sound the antique alarm.

Recreational facilities include a nine-hole golf course, a skate park, and a scenic trail along the Purgatoire River. Trinidad's lovely parks are a great place for family recreation, and offer soccer fields, disc golf, a fishing pond, and playgrounds. Trinidad Lake State Park is only three miles (five kilometers) away, and offers excellent fishing and hunting. Park visitors can also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, camping, and wildlife-watching.

Looking for some local culture? Works by regional artists can be seen at the Corazon Gallery, the First Street Gallery, and other venues. The A.R. Mitchell Memorial Museum houses a fine collection of Western and Spanish Colonial folk art, and also hosts traveling exhibitions. The Southern Colorado Repertory Theatre offers three professional productions a year, and the Trinidad Area Arts Council stages Shakespearean plays each summer. Summertime also brings the Trinidaddio Blues Fest, a highly anticipated event that takes place each August.

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