Divide, Colorado

Divide, CO is a Highway 24 town that sits at the top of Ute Pass on the north slope of Pikes Peak. It’s a charming little area with a grocery store, a few restaurants, and access to many natural attractions like Mueller State Park.

The town motto is the “Center of the Known Universe”. It is named Divide due to the way water runs off from its location, dividing to the north, south, east, and west. In 2020 there were 143 reported residents in the Teller County town, which sits at an elevation of 9,165 feet.

History

Town of Divide CO Homes in Countryside — Homes in the countryside of Divide.

Ranching and farming have long been an important part of Divide’s economy. Potatoes and iceberg lettuce were the most notable crops until their decline in the 1930s. Ice was cut from nearby Coulson Lake and used to preserve the “Pikes Peak Lettuce” during transport, which was shipped as far east as Chicago.

Lumber and freighting were also mainstays. During its railroad heyday, Divide’s Midland Depot thrived as a stop between the booming mining camps of Victor and Cripple Creek to the south and Colorado Springs to the east. It also connected to the boom towns of Leadville, Glenwood Springs, and Aspen. Built in 1904, the depot still remains today.

Today, like in the past, Divide receives a lot of commerce from travelers passing through town. It is also home to a state park and a popular wolf sanctuary that draw in tourists from around the state.

Main Attractions

Two wolves howling — Wolves at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center in Divide, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/Cowolfcenter

Mueller State Park – Mueller boasts 5,000 acres of wooden terrain, with modern campgrounds and multi-use trails. The hiking is fantastic in this state park located just south of town, en route to Cripple Creek via Highway 67.

Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center – This popular nonprofit wolf sanctuary is a unique spot to visit if you’re in the area. They offer guided tours of the property as well as meet and greets with the wolves and other wildlife.

Recreation

Mueller State Park. Photo by: Cody Wellons

Camping –

Prospector Ridge campground is within the state park and is only available for tent camping. There are over 100 sites and a handful of group camping areas as well.
The Crags campground has 17 sites that are suitable for tents, small trailers, or small RVs. It is first come, first served and open seasonally.
Read about the camping near Divide, Cripple Creek and Victor.

Fishing – North and South Catamount and Crystal Reservoirs are within the North Slope Recreation Area and all offer great fishing. Visitors can cast a line from kayaks, SUPS, canoes, or any other non-gasoline small watercraft. You’ll find an abundance of rainbow, lake, brown, and cutthroat trout.

Hiking –

Women’s Trail 375 is just north of town and a great spot for finding wildflowers in the spring. There are several maintained trails in the area that gently roll through forests and meadows. Pets are allowed.
Raspberry Mountain trailhead is a short drive south of Divide. The trail totals 4.6 miles with sweeping views of the surrounding area.
Mueller State Park is a gorgeous wildlife preserve with plenty of multi-use trails. There are 50 miles of trails to explore the foothills of the Rockies.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument has several well-maintained trails that wind you through the intriguing park. You’ll find petrified redwoods, insect and plant fossils, and even guided walks if you want a more educational hike.

OHV – Manchester Creek trailhead has miles of ATV and dirt bike trails through a wooded area. There are also a few primitive campsites to set up at if you want to stay overnight.

Accommodations

Town of Divide CO Highway 24 Sunset — Westward sunset over Highway 24 in Divide.

Booking.com

You’ll find a few VRBO and Airbnb rentals in the area, but if you want hotel accommodations, check out the options in nearby Woodland Park. Looking for something more rustic? Read about the cabins to rent near Colorado Springs.

Dining

Town Plaza Divide CO — Town plaza acts as “downtown” Divide, featuring McGinty’s Wood Oven Pub.

Paradox Beer Company – Eclectic little brewpub with a large pet-friendly patio. They have a wide range of beers to choose from as well as wood-fired pizzas. They love to get a big bonfire going on chilly nights.

McGinty’s Wood Oven Pub – Irish pub with Old World decor and a short menu of quality food. Grab a hearty meal complete with a pint of Guinness, some beer and cheese soup, and some soda bread.

Russ’s Place – Local burger and bar joint with homemade buns and sauces. Visitors love the friendly service and delicious bites.