A rural atmosphere with mountain views and a close-knit community in Ellicott
Farmland and open prairies span as far as the eye can see in Ellicot, a rural, sparsely populated community around 25 miles east of Colorado Springs. Founded in the late 19th century, the small town began as a community of ranches and homestead farms and has maintained its countryside feel ever since. “Ellicott is the kind of place where community members come together to help one another,” says Ilse Venter, a local resident and owner of Wagon Trail Mercantile. “We see familiar faces come into the shop every day, and people like supporting each other’s hobbies and businesses. I moved here with my family so that we could own some land, and we have made great connections with other locals and business owners.” With a population of around 1,300, according to United States Census Bureau’s 2023 estimate, Ellicott has a peaceful atmosphere and quiet country roads with distant views of snowcapped Rocky Mountain peaks.
Expansive lots and a low crime score east of Colorado Springs
Ranch-style homes and manufactured homes sit on large, private properties in Ellicott, with lots ranging from 5 acres to over 30 acres. The area attracts those looking to get away from an active city atmosphere, and property sizes allow room for detached workshops, horses and other livestock. Manufactured homes on small lots can go for $30,000 to $125,000, while single-story builds with expansive properties range from $400,000 to $575,000. Ellicott has a CAP Index Crime Score of 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Conveniently located public schools
All the community’s public schools share an intersection, allowing for easy drop off and pickup for parents of multiple students. Ellicott Elementary School earns a B-minus grade from Niche, while Ellicott Middle School receives a C-plus. Also with a C-plus, Ellicot High School, home of the Thunderhawks, has a varied selection of extracurricular activities, including clubs centered around theater, sports marketing and robotics.
Local businesses support one another in Ellicott
The intersection of North Ellicott Highway and Colorado state Highway 94 is home to a handful of businesses, including a gas station, a bank, a Subway and a tire shop. The El Bronco Ranch Market has a small selection of groceries and a restaurant serving Mexican fare from breakfast burritos to carne asada tacos. For a larger selection of restaurants and shops, locals can drive around 20 miles west to Powers Boulevard in Colorado Springs, which is lined with big-box stores, supermarkets and eateries. Colorado Springs is also home to the nearest medical center: the UCHealth Memorial Hospital.
Wishing Star Farm, at the intersection of North Ellicott Highway and Highway 94, is home to a petting zoo. The farm hosts a Fall Festival from late September through October complete with hayrides, a maze, games and a pumpkin patch. Wagon Trail Mercantile is also nearby and sells a small selection of snacks, postcards and local artwork. “People like supporting local businesses in Ellicott,” says Venter. “It’s common to head down the road and buy eggs from a local farm before stepping into the corner store. I have been a part of hosting farm swap events where farmers and other business owners come together to sell livestock, art, plants and other goods. It has been gaining momentum, and everyone comes into the shop asking when the next fair will be. We are scheduling an event every month.”
Drive west for Colorado Springs recreation
Between Ellicott and Colorado Springs, the 1,300-acre Corral Bluffs Open Space offers guided hikes through its rocky landscape. Around 30 miles from Ellicott, on Colorado Springs' west side, Garden of the Gods is one of the area’s most visited hiking spots, with unique rock formations and panoramic views. The Red Rock Canyon Open Space is also nearby and has over 10 miles of hiking trails.
Highway 94 and Interstate 25 provide access to nearby cities
Colorado state Highway 94 offers a direct, 25-mile route west to Colorado Springs. Interstate 25 cuts through Colorado Springs and goes about 70 miles north to Denver and roughly 45 miles south to Pueblo. The closest airport is around 25 miles west in Colorado Springs.
Written By
Jillian Pillow
