Aerial over Southern Trinidad. Photo: Scrubhiker
Nestled in the beautiful Purgatoire River Valley, Trinidad features a large, hilly historic downtown district. It’s one of the most southern Colorado towns on I-25, located thirteen miles from the New Mexico border.
There’s lot to see and do around this often-overlooked section of Colorado. Downtown has everything you need in terms of commerce. The picturesque Victorian architecture and red-brick streets are sure to leave a lasting impression.
The population was 9,096 in 2010, making it the largest city in Las Animas County. It’s also the county seat. The elevation is 6,010 feet.
History
Since Triniad was founded in 1862, right after coal was discovered in the region. It was incorporated in 1876.
When the train reached town in 1878, Trinidad grew quickly. By 1900 there were 7,500 residents.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Trinidad Trolley provides free town tours daily from 10am to 2pm, every hour. The Trinidad Welcome Center serves as a visitor center town and state.
In the later half of the twentith century, Triniad was coined the “Sex Change Capital of the World”. At its peak, Dr. Stanley Biber performed four sex change operations per day.
Recreation
Camping – Trinidad lake offers 73 campsites, open year round.
Fishing – Fish the Purgatoire River, which flows by town. Triniad Lake State Park is another nearby destination for year round fishing.
Main Attractions
Highway of Legends – Trinidad lies at the southern start to this national scenic byway.
Trinidad Lake – 2700 acre state park nestled in the foothills west of town.
Special Events
Artocade – “If you canʼt drive it, itʼs a float.” September art car festival and parade, featuring art-enhanced cars, bikes, scooters, trikes, golf carts and other drive-able conveyances. Other events include art exhibitions and competitions.
Trindiefest – Independent film festival held every September in downtown Trinidad.
Things To Do near Trinidad
Museums:
- Louden-Henritze Archeology Museum
- Trinidad History Museum
Scenic Drives:
State Parks:
Towns:
- Cuchara (54mi)
- La Junta (80mi)
- La Veta (53mi)
- Monument Park (38mi)
- Pueblo (85mi)
- Walsenburg (37mi)
