huerfano county
Explore the beauty, community, and opportunity of Huerfano County with Code of the West Real Estate – your trusted partner for homes, land, and commercial property.
Scenic Living in the Spanish Peaks Region
Home to the majestic Spanish Peaks and endless mountain adventures, Huerfano County is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and families alike. With a population of around 6,700 and thousands of acres of public land, it’s a haven for hiking, camping, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, and more.
From historic towns like Walsenburg and La Veta to peaceful hideaways in Cuchara and Gardner, there’s a place for everyone in Huerfano. Land and property are available across the region — whether you’re looking for a mountain cabin, a ranch, or a commercial investment.
Code of the West Real Estate – Locally Rooted
Located in La Veta, Code of the West Real Estate proudly serves all of Huerfano County, including Walsenburg, Cuchara, Gardner, and beyond. Our listings include homes, ranches, commercial properties, and land for sale across the region.
Huerfano County Includes:
La Veta
Walsenburg
Cuchara
Gardner
Farisita
Recreation
Beyond its beauty, Huerfano offers plenty of outdoor activities. Colorado’s first State park, Lathrop State Park, is located in Huerfano County. The park provides 1,594 acres of year-round water and land-based recreation, thanks to Martin Lake, Horseshoe Lake and the 9-hole Walsenburg Golf Course located in Lathrop State Park.
Huerfano County also features Cuchara Mountain Park. The park repurposed 50 acres that used to be the Cuchara Ski Resort and now provides public access to National Forest Service land.
Hunting, Fishing, Hiking, & 4-Wheeling
Southern Colorado, especially Huerfano County, is renowned for trophy hunting opportunities, including Elk, Mule Deer, and Bighorn Sheep. Explore Colorado ranches and BLM land for your next land sale opportunity.
With thousands of acres of San Isabel National Forest surrounding Southern Colorado it is like living in one large playground. With high alpine lakes, streams for fly fishing, dike walls for exploring, and miles of hiking/biking trails, there are plenty of places to explore for all age groups and backgrounds including beginner, intermediate and advanced levels!
Wind Power
Colorado generates plenty of wind power. Huerfano County is home to Colorado’s largest producer of distributed generation power, the Huerfano River Wind Farm.
Huerfano County includes the areas of Gardner, La Veta/Cuchara and Walsenburg. If you’re looking for real estate in these areas or other Colorado mountain homes for sale, Code of the West Real Estate can help! Contact us today for your Walsenburg real estate and La Veta real estate needs!
If you want detailed information about Huerfano County, check out:
- County government: https://www.huerfano.us
- Spanish Peaks Tourism Board: https://spanishpeakscountry.com
La Veta
Welcome to La Veta, a charming artist’s haven nestled at the foot of the Spanish Peaks. This quaint mountain town offers a blend of creativity, community, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retirement retreat, a second home surrounded by natural beauty, or a friendly place to settle down, La Veta has a lot to love.
Attractions, Events, & Festivals:
•Grandote Peaks Golf & Country Club in La Veta, Colorado, is a premier 18-hole public course designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish. Set along the scenic Highway of Legends at the base of the Spanish Peaks, this mountain golf course offers 7,085 yards of stunning fairways, a par of 72, and unbeatable views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
•Art in the Park – Held the first weekend in July at Town Park, this lively event features handmade arts, crafts, live music, and food vendors. Free admission!
•Mud Bog – returns to the Huerfano County Fairgrounds each summer, drawing dozens of high-powered trucks competing on a 150-foot muddy track in multiple vehicle classes. Spectators enjoy muddy thrills while supporting local youth—since proceeds benefit Huerfano County 4-H.
Spanish Peaks International Celtic Music Festival – A four‑day, immersive destination retreat each September with concerts, workshops, dancing, and performances
•La Veta Oktoberfest – Presented the first Saturday in October, includes a 5K, car show, German band, local food vendors, and a biergarten vibe. :contentReference
•First‑Friday Art Walks – June through September, galleries and shops host open studios and live music between 4:30–7 pm.
• Francisco Fort Days (Celebration Day) – Late July, a full day of pancake breakfast, historical presentations, music, kid’s games, blacksmith demos, and storytelling
•Huerfano County 4‑H / FFA Fair – A 5-day youth fair in early August at the La Veta fairgrounds. It includes livestock shows, indoor exhibits, horse and livestock competitions, recruitment sales, rodeo night and community awards. Families come together from across the county for education and celebration. *Code of the West is a proud Sponsor*
Local Attractions:
• Francisco Fort Museum – Colorado’s oldest adobe fort (built 1862). Tours Tue–Sat Memorial Day to Labor Day.
• Highway of Legends Scenic Byway – Scenic driving route beginning in La Veta through the Spanish Peaks and San Isabel National Forest. Great for sightseeing and bike touring.
• La Veta Creative District – A hub for local galleries, studios, artisan shopping, performances, and community arts events year-round
•La Veta’s Oktoberfest – held the first Saturday every October. The event begins with a 5K event and then Oktoberfest festivities continue with a car show, German band, dancing in the street, more than 60 arts, crafts and food vendors, a Veteran’s tribute and a German Biergarten
Dining & Coffee Favorite:
•Alys’ Restaurant calls La Veta home, and is worth a stop for a phenomenal dining experience courtesy of Chef Alys Romer.
•Legends on Main – Authentic New Mexican and international fare on South Main St. Widely praised for both flavor and hospitality
•The Grandote Steakhouse & Bar – Located just outside town at Grandote Mountain Resort. Casual grill plus a premium steakhouse for lunch, dinner, or drinks with mountain views.
•Stiano Italian Trattoria – Located inside the newly renovated La Veta Inn at 103 W Ryus Ave, this authentic Italian trattoria offers fresh‑made pastas, seasonal seafood, and handcrafted cocktails in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
•Just In Time Bakery – Located at 107 W Francisco Street, this small-batch bakery specializes in handcrafted cookies, pies, cheesecakes, and savory grab-and-go items. Open Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat with fresh treats made daily.
•Lou’s Diner – At 701 S Main Street, serving breakfast and lunch with an Asian-fusion twist
•Mountain Merman Brewing Company – La Veta’s microbrewery at 220 S Main Street features small-batch ales, cocktails, wine, and pub snacks in a family- and dog-friendly taproom.
Walsenburg
As the largest town in Huerfano County and the county seat, Walsenburg offers a unique mix of small-town living and historic charm. With a revitalizing downtown, growing dining scene, and proximity to outdoor adventures, it’s an ideal home base for full-time residents, commuters, and investors alike. Affordable housing, local schools, and expanding tourism make this town a smart place to plant roots. Walsenburg connects roads heading cross-country in all directions, so more than 4 million vehicles per year make the drive down Main Street.
Events & Attractions:
• Mountain Mining Days – Miner’s Plaza comes alive with music, food, and a parade
• Parade of Lights – Festive holiday celebration the day after Thanksgiving
• Fox Theatre – a historic cinema and event space that opened in 1917. In addition to movies, the Fox Theater also hosts a variety of events.
• Walsenburg Mining Museum – Housed in the 1896 jail—explore local mining history and Western lore
• Museum of Friends (MoF) – Contemporary art exhibits, outreach programs, and public events
Dining & Coffee Favorites:
• Walsenburg Mercantile – With over 80 unique vendors under one roof, the Walsenburg Mercantile is your go-to destination for shopping, gifts, and local treasures
• Regalburg Delicatessen – located inside the Walsenburg Mercantile- is a local deli offering grab-and-go meals, handcrafted drinks, fresh-brewed Solar Roast coffee, baked goods, and a delicious salad bar. Perfect for residents and visitors seeking quality quick bites in Walsenburg, CO
• The Stokehouse – in Walsenburg, CO, features live music every Friday and Saturday night, a spacious outdoor patio, mouthwatering steaks and burgers, plus daily specials. A local favorite for dining and weekend entertainment.
• Craft Canary – is a Walsenburg brewpub brewing in-house craft beers and serving craft cocktails, mocktails, and wine. Enjoy organic, farm-to-table plates made fresh locally for a true taste experience.
• Gub Gub’s Pizza and Ice Cream – serves pizza, wings, ice cream, drinks, and more out of a charming restored 1960s gas station—bringing classic roadside Americana flavors to Walsenburg, CO.
• Serendipity Coffee – offers Colorado-roasted beans and unique coffee experiences—perfect for locals and visitors looking to elevate their daily brew in Walsenburg, CO
• George’s Drive Inn – a cozy, community-favorite breakfast & lunch spot just off I-25 in Walsenburg, serving classic dishes with a Southern Colorado twist.
• Second Street Bar and Grill – located next to the Walsenburg Golf Course, offers great food, a fun atmosphere, and a friendly local crowd—perfect for dining and socializing in Walsenburg, CO.
• TC’s Diner – Comfort‑food classic on Highway 10: famous for smothered burgers, chili, breakfast specials, and home-cooked meals in a cozy, friendly atmosphere.
• Branch Cafe – A newcomer (opened June 2025) offering robust breakfast and lunch options. Expect fresh pastries, wraps, and a friendly small-town feel.
• Corine’s Mexican Restaurant – Located in downtown Walsenburg, offering generous portions of classic Mexican flavors
Where to Stay:
Perfect for visitors, buyers, or relocating prospects, Walsenburg offers exceptional lodging:
• The Lofts Downtown – Newly renovated lofts on Main Street, walking distance to dining, shops, and art venues.
Rates from ~$99/night, group-friendly space with shared kitchen, living room, & WiFi access
• Whistle Stop Lofts – Located above Walsenburg Mercantile, this boutique lodging blends historic charm with modern amenities. Monthly or nightly stays available, starting around $110–120/night or $1,000/month; includes utilities, streaming, and rooftop views in 15 industrial‑style suites
Whether you’re just passing through or searching for your mountain property, Walsenburg offers a delightful combination of heritage, hospitality, and heart.
Cuchara
Tucked in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Cuchara is a scenic mountain village known for its alpine charm, wildlife, and seasonal magic. It’s the perfect destination for those dreaming of a peaceful cabin lifestyle, vacation rental income, or adventure-filled weekends. With Cuchara Mountain Park and the Highway of Legends at your doorstep, this is where outdoor dreams come true. Population estimates ~1,500, median age around 66 years, and average income near $39,000
Events & Attractions:
Perched on the eastern slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Cuchara is surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest and has access to alpine lakes and high-country trails:
•Spring Creek Trail – A scenic 6-mile out-and-back trail great for hiking, birding, and wildflower spotting during warmer months.
•Cordova Pass Jeep Trail – High-clearance 4×4 route offering panoramic views, connecting to the West Spanish Peak trailhead.
•Bear & Blue Trail Loop – Moderate difficulty loop trail through aspens and evergreens with several scenic overlooks.
•Wahatoya Trail System – A mix of hiking, biking, and off-road vehicle trails with incredible views of the twin peaks.
•Dike Trail – Popular hiking route following a volcanic dike formation with geological interest and beautiful scenery.
•Home to Cuchara Mountain Park — a former ski resort turned year-round activity hub offering hiking, cross‑country skiing, disc golf, and more
•Cuchara 4th of July Parade, Dog Days of Cuchara, and seasonal events.
•Highway of Legends Scenic Byway – Winding through the mountains with unforgettable vistas and historical stops.
•Bears Den Gift Shop and Mini Golf -There’s fun for the whole family at the Bear’s Den Mini Golf. Each hole features local landmarks, making it an interesting and fun course!
Dining and Local Favorites:
Iconic Dog Bar & Grill – the “Heart and Soul of Cuchara” since 1980.
Cuchara Yacht Club – A quirky mountain bar with cocktails, live music, and zero lake (just legendary fun)
The Bears Den – Cozy comfort food in a casual mountain setting, loved by locals and visitors alike
Dakota Dukes -a friendly tail-waggin’ Hello from Dyna Lou, the First Lady of Cuchara and Robert White — the “Dakota Duke” himself. Inside the store you’ll find unique Cuchara Gifts, T-shirts, groceries and more.
Where to Stay:
Cuchara Inn – A rustic, welcoming lodge in the heart of the village—perfect for visitors and second-home buyers.
Seasonal shops and markets bring the town to life in summer and fall.
Yellowpine Ranch – Mountain comfort with panoramic views
Gardner
Nestled in the rolling hills between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Wet Mountains, Gardner offers wide-open space, rich cultural roots, and a tranquil rural lifestyle. It’s an ideal place for those looking for privacy, homesteading, or simply room to breathe—all while still being connected to nearby towns like Walsenburg and Westcliffe.
Gardner Valley School – A tuition-free K–8 public charter school focused on hands-on, experiential learning. With small class sizes and a deep commitment to community and the natural environment, it’s a major asset for families choosing to live in the area.
Farming & Ranching Roots – Gardner is home to generational ranches, small farms, and off-grid properties, making it attractive for self-sufficient living.
Cultural & Creative Scene – Gardner has long been a gathering place for artists, musicians, and writers seeking solitude and inspiration.
- Chuck Wagon Supper is an annual event in Gardner where community members and visitors gather to enjoy an old-fashioned chuck wagon feast.
- Gardner’s Gallo Rodeo features your favorite rodeo events including a pancake breakfast, kid events, mutton busting, calf scramble, bull riding, ranch broncs, roping and wild horse racing.
- Libre is one of the oldest artist communes in the country (originated in 1968), and it’s located in Gardner. Members build their own houses, so the architecture is unique.
- Sonic Bloom Festival is a music festival that occurs around the summer solstice. The techno music festival also features visual and performance artists as well as various speakers and workshops. Hunting enthusiasts will find excellent hunting land in this area.
Located near the San Isabel National Forest and the Huerfano River, with trails, hot springs, and camping spots just a short drive away. With little traffic and stunning views, the drive to and from Gardner is part of the charm.
Farisita
Farisita is a hidden gem—steeped in Colorado history and surrounded by untouched beauty. This rural enclave offers privacy, historic charm, and expansive ranchland, making it a desirable destination for conservation-minded landowners, heritage seekers, or anyone looking to escape the rush of modern life. The wide-open views and quiet living are unmatched.
Montoya Ranch – Built in the late 1800s, this Territorial adobe-style ranch house is the only known adobe structure in Colorado or New Mexico with a full adobe basement. It served as a sheep ranch, general store, and post office under the Montoya and Faris families. The ranch is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as a landmark of Farisita’s heritage.
Huerfano County Schools
LA VETA DISTRICT RE-2
Huerfano School District RE-1
https://huerfano.k12.co.us/
201 East 5th Street
Walsenburg, CO 81089
Phone: (719) 738-1520
Gardner School
https://huerfano.k12.co.us/gardner/
25421 Hwy 69
Gardner, CO 81040
Phone: 719-746-2446
Fax: 719-746-2066
Whether you need real estate homes, commercial real estate, land sale options, or Colorado Multi Family Homes for Sale in Walsenburg or La Veta, Code of the West Real Estate LLC can assist you in finding the right property. Contact us for more details on available land lots, or use our app to browse listings. Visit our business real estate page for performance standards and public records regarding county roads and property rights.
If you want detailed public records or more information about Huerfano County, check out:
County government: https://www.huerfano.us
Spanish Peaks Tourism Board: https://spanishpeakscountry.com
Schools: La Veta District RE-2, Huerfano School District RE-1
Huerfano County includes Gardner, La Veta, Cuchara, and Walsenburg CO. If you’re looking for land for sale in Huerfano County Colorado, or need information on commercial use properties, we are here to help!