Hotchkiss, Colorado

Hotchkiss is a quiet mountain town with plenty of restaurants, shopping, and accommodations for visitors to enjoy. It lies at the intersection of CO-92 and 133, about thirty miles east of Delta.

The town motto is reflected in the locals: “Friendliest Town Around”. Hotchkiss is situated at 5,331 feet of elevation in Delta County. The 2020 census recorded 1,230 people in the town, which was incorporated on March 14th, 1901.

Main Attractions

alpine lake — Lake in the Gunnison National Forest, near Hotchkiss, CO. Photo by: dana.m.wilson

State and National Parks – Because of its convenient location, outstanding recreation and sightseeing can be found in every direction.

Paonia State Park is located to the north with a pristine reservoir surrounded by the Ragged Mountains. Even further north is Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. Crested Butte is a two-hour drive in the summer.
Crawford State Park is south and has plenty of opportunities for water sports and other boating. There are also hiking and picnic areas scattered throughout.
North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is just south on CO-92. This side of the park is much more remote, but perfect if you want to escape the usual national park crowds and go off the beaten trail a little bit.

Creamery Arts Center – This all-in-one cultural hub in town has everything from pottery classes to live musical performances. There are multiple rotating art exhibits, a gift shop with handmade items, and even an ice cream parlor!

Recreation

West Elk Mountains from Redlands Mesa, near Hotchkiss — West Elks from Redlands Mesa, near Hotchkiss. Photo by: CAJC: in the PNW

Camping –

Both Crawford and Paonia State Parks have campgrounds with electrical hookups and space for RVs.
North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison has 13 campsites in a high mountain forest. Sites are first-come, first-served and can accommodate cars and RVs up to 22 feet.
Read about the camping near Paonia, Hotchkiss, and Crawford.

Fishing –

Crawford Reservoir is open to fishing and boating. It is known for its great perch, crappie, and catfish.
Muddy Creek runs to the north on Highway 92. It also runs through Paonia State Park with several spots to cast a line.
The Gunnison River has Gold Medal Water and Wild Trout Water, meaning there are plenty of good fishing opportunities.

Hiking –

The northern entrance to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is south near Crawford. There are no marked trails on this side of the canyon, but rather a few wilderness scrambles of varying difficulties down to the river.
Trails in the Grand Mesa National Forest can be accessed to the north on Highway 133, as well as west on CO-92, and then north on Highway 65.

Accommodations

Tan colored Inn building — Beautiful grounds at the Leroux Creek Inn & Vineyards in Hotchkiss, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/lerouxcreekinnvineyards

Booking.com

Leroux Creek Inn – This winery serves up premiere wine tastings and a unique bed and breakfast at a winery. The wine and stories will flow at this special Hotchkiss accommodation.

Hotchkiss Inn – Quaint, no-frills hotel located downtown. They offer a complimentary breakfast and a nice outdoor seating area.

Consider staying in one of Delta’s top hotels, 25 minutes west; or opt for Paonia’s best accommodations, just 15 minutes north.

Dining

outside seating at burger restaurant — Outdoor patio at 133 BRGR in Hotchkiss, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/133brgr

133 BRGR – Thick burgers with lots of unique toppings. They also have plenty of fresh sides to round out your meal.

Coaltrain Coffee House – Cozy coffee spot with a variety of drinks, light fare, and good spaces to spread out and get work done.

Zack’s BBQ – Local favorite spot for a great home-cooked meal. Save room for dessert because there are freshly made pies to enjoy.

Read about the wineries near Paonia and Hotchkiss.

Special Events

Hotchkiss Colorado — Downtown Hotchkiss, CO.

Apr – HESTIVAL – A 3-day camping event that offers a myriad of activities including excursions, live music, cider tasting, hiking, and mountain biking.

May – Hotchkiss Sheep Camp Stock Dog Trials – The town celebrates its sheep ranching tradition annually on Mother’s Day Weekend in mid-May.

Aug – Delta County Fair & Rodeo – Longstanding western festival celebrated annually since 1897, held in early August.

Aug – Farm to Fiddle Summer Festival – The second weekend of August boasts fresh food, local wine, livestock, and live music.