Colorado's Captivating Town Tucked Into The Rocky Mountains Offers Recreation And Friendly Vibes

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For travelers seeking outdoor adventure and quaint alpine towns, there are few better places than the Rocky Mountains. And just 30 minutes outside of Steamboat Springs, whose claim to fame is its "champagne powder" snow beloved by Olympic athletes, is one of Colorado's most enchanting towns. With a population of less than 700, Oak Creek is certainly tiny, but that doesn't mean you should overlook its charm.

Incorporated back in 1907 and with coal mining roots, Oak Creek is the gateway to endless nature and recreation. Pair your visit to Oak Creek with a trip to Steamboat Springs. Or, make it a stop on a journey down the wildly underrated Colorado scenic byway — which runs from Meeker to Yampa, just a few miles away from Oak Creek. Most accommodation options are located in Streamboat Springs or Yampa, but Homewood Suites By Hilton Steamboat Springs is a top-rated option that's not far from town. With a 9.0 rating on Booking.com, the hotel offers features like complimentary breakfast, an indoor swimming pool, an outdoor fireplace, and a games room.

When it comes to outdoor offerings, Oak Creek is a year-round paradise. This Colorado town is right outside of Stagecoach State Park, an 820-acre green space offering four seasons of fun. In the winter, visitors flock to the park for snowshoeing, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing across 8 miles of groomed trails. Meanwhile, warmer weather brings opportunities for paddleboarding, swimming, and boating.

With captivating mountain and reservoir scenery, exploring Stagecoach's trails is also a must. The Elk Run Trail is a top pick — although it comes out to just under 10 miles, it's considered easy, with a fairly flat trail offering stunning views. Tailwater Anglers Trail is another great choice, and it's particularly popular with those looking to fish, as it leads to the Yampa River.

A daily vehicle pass to the park is $10. And if you'd like to spend even more time in nature, there are over 90 campsites up for grabs (though do note reservations are required). A handful are even available during the winter.

Apart from exploring Oak Creek's surrounding nature, don't miss a stop to the Tracks and Trails Museum, where you can learn about some local history. Tracks and Trails houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and more, detailing Oak Creek's rich past as a mining, ranching, and railroading community. Admission is free, but hours are fairly limited and the musuem is closed Sunday and Monday — check ahead to ensure it'll be open for your visit.

When it comes to dining, you'll find a few local gems in town. Be sure to visit Franciosi Brothers Pizza and Meatballs. The eatery, which has a 4.7 rating on Google, serves an array of mouthwatering pizzas and subs with friendly service. Dueling D's BBQ and Grill is another top spot in town for its Texas-style brisket, ribs, and more. If you're looking for a drink in town, there's no better spot than Oak Creek Tavern, a local institution that's been around since 1908. For another unique Colorado town full of endless outdoor adventure, consider a visit to Dinosaur, which is just about two hours from Oak Creek.