Historic southwestern gateway along the Santa Fe Trail
Located near the New Mexico border and at the base of Raton Pass, Trinidad is the Las Animas County seat. Established in the mid-1800s along the Santa Fe Trail, the city retains elements of its frontier-era identity while evolving as a cultural and economic center for southeastern Colorado. “It’s rural in a way that’s really charming,” says Peter Chase, a real estate agent with Spanish Peaks Land Company and a longtime resident of the area. “There are probably more animals than there are people, and that’s part of the appeal.”
Trinidad, CO lies between the New Mexico border and Pueblo, CO.
Trinidad's downtown area has a wide variety of retail and dining options.
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Classic Styles
Housing in Trinidad comes in a variety of styles. Towards the downtown area, brick facades, decorative trim and covered porches showcase some of the 19th-century construction the area is known for. Mid-century ranch and craftsman-inspired homes cluster near the hillsides around Simpson’s Rest, which is a butte that overlooks the city, with a large "Hollywood"-like sign that spells out Trinidad. Further southwest, closer to Trinidad Lake State Park, newer ranch-style builds often occupy larger lots. The median price for a home in Trinidad is $270,000.
Most homes in Trinidad are modest brick ranch style homes.
There are some larger homes in Trinidad, and some newer builds too.
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Trinidad State College provides lots of options and pathways
The town is served primarily by the Trinidad School District No. 1, which oversees around 1,000 students from grades K-12 and earns a B-minus from Niche. Trinidad State College, originally founded in 1925, continues to provide the community with two-year degrees, certifications and transfer programs and has an enrollment of about 1,000 students.
Trinidad State College is a community college that offers 49 different degree programs.
Trinidad High School of the Trinidad School District 1.
Trinidad Middle School serves grades 6 through 8, and feeds into Trinidad High School.
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Trinidad Lake State Park and Fishers Peak State Park provide plenty to explore
The city’s environment—encompassing high desert, mountainous terrain and forested slopes—supports a range of outdoor pursuits. The Purgatoire River runs through the city and has a trail that runs alongside it. Trinidad Lake State Park, west of town, allows fishing, boating and camping around a reservoir that also hosts scenic hiking paths. Fishers Peak State Park, south of the city, is the second-largest state park in Colorado and is home to its own network of trails.
Santa Fe Trail Days, held every summer, fills downtown with parades, live music and food vendors. “We’re a bigtime rodeo town – we actually have the oldest rodeo in the state,” says Chase. “And the Parade of Lights is another big event that brings the community together and showcases the small-town feel Trinidad has.”
Fisher's Creek State Park is one of two sate parks in the Trinidad area.
Trinidad Lake is popular with boaters I the Summer and ice fishers in the Winter.
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Small-town feel with plenty of bigger amenities nearby
Downtown Trinidad merges 19th-century storefronts with modern commerce, with restaurants that range from American diners to southwestern-inspired spots. Bella Luna Pizzeria stands out for its wood-fired pizzas and casual dining atmosphere. Safeway meets grocery needs, while hardware and feed stores cater to local workers and farmers. “You have everything you need, for the most part,” says Chase. “That’s one of my favorite things about Trinidad – you have the essentials right there, and you can get to Pueblo or someplace like that easily for more expansive options.”
Trinidad has some fantastic dining options, including the Trinidad Smokehouse.
For a great wood fired pizza, head to Trinidad's Bella Luna Pizzeria.
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Ranching, mining and more
Long reliant on coal mining and ranching, Trinidad has diversified into healthcare, local government and tourism. Mount San Rafael Hospital remains a significant employer, joined by municipal and county offices and Trinidad State College. “You’re in a good spot, as far as getting to work goes,” says Chase. “It’s easy for commuters to get to the ranches or the nearby industrial parks – people also work in natural gas."
Trinidad has a rich history in the coal mining industry.
Today, one of Trinidad's main industries is the healthcare field.
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A blend of Colorado and New Mexico
Trinidad sits along Interstate 25, forming a key route for travel over Raton Pass between Colorado and New Mexico. “It’s more or less halfway between Santa Fe and Denver,” says Chase. “So even with how far out it feels, you have options as far as nearby bigger cities.” U.S. Highway 160 extends west toward the San Luis Valley, offering alternate routes for regional travel. Larger airports in Pueblo, about 85 miles north and Colorado Springs, around 130 miles north.
Crime
According to data provided by the FBI, violent and property crime in Trinidad is elevated compared to state and national averages, with recent numbers still mostly holding steady.
Written By
Gerald Withers
Photography Contributed By
Karl Brewick
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Gina Raye,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Trinidad, CO sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Trinidad, CO over the last 12 months is $289,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Custom Built Mountain Retreat perched atop the ridgeline of a 37-acre parcel in the Pines of Southern Colorado. This Inviting 4 Bed, 3 Bath, Ranch Style Home was thoughtfully designed with Comfort and Accessibility in mind with zero-step entryway, wide doorways and elevator to the walk-out basement with Game room & Theater. Panoramic Views of Fishers Peak, Spanish Peaks, Greenhorn Mountain,
Serenity, space, and stunning vistas await at this rare 84-acre single-family home retreat on Farview Valley Rd--a dream come true for those seeking the ideal blend of privacy, comfort, and endless possibilities. With 2,000 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, this welcoming sanctuary offers the peace and flexibility to create the lifestyle you deserve, all surrounded by natural beauty
Gina Raye
Authentic Colorado Properties, LLC dba Colorado Land Properties
Don't settle for less than the Best in the New Home feeling!!! This stunning single-family home is now available for sale in the desirable Pinon Terrace Subdivision. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and spacious 2900 square feet, and finished with upscale features this home is perfect for rural or suburban home buyers seeking a comfortable and modern living space.Step inside and be greeted by an
Gina Raye
Authentic Colorado Properties, LLC dba Colorado Land Properties
This is What Dreams are Made of! Your very own 35+ Acre Paradise Awaits you off Mountain View at Santa Fe Trail Ranch. Majestic Views of the Rocky Mountain Vistas, Fishers Peak and lush forest canyon can be utilized from 3 gentle yet commanding different building sites on this unique and best land purchase. Explore the adventure knowing that the convenience of electric, city water and great roads
Gina Raye
Authentic Colorado Properties, LLC dba Colorado Land Properties
Gently sloping south facing 35 acre parcel located off a dead end spur road just 2 miles from the ranch entrance at 6,900 feet.Nice wide building site area with easy access to power and water.Panoramic views of the entire Raton Mesa all overlooking Fisher Peak State Park.15 minutes to downtown Trinidad or Trinidad Lake State Park!Competitively priced at $99,000
You might not want to miss this hidden gem! Nestled in the charming, established Craftsman neighborhood near Trinidad State College with great Views sits this beautifully maintained single-family residence combining modern updates with classic appeal, offering a sanctuary that's both stylish and functional. Step inside this spacious 2,478 sq ft two-level home, where you'll be greeted by original
Gina Raye
Authentic Colorado Properties, LLC dba Colorado Land Properties
Here's your chance to own a fully updated, move-in-ready Victorian in Trinidad! This 1,345 sqft home features two bedrooms and 1 bathroom, making it perfect as a starter home, vacation escape, or investment property. Inside, wood floors, an arched entryway, and built-in dining cabinets create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the wood stove adds a cozy touch for cooler evenings. A bright kitchen
Check out this gorgeous custom-built home on 40 acres of pure CO mountain beauty. This retreat offers unmatched panoramic views that stretch for miles, creating an ever-changing masterpiece of sunrises, sunsets, and starlit skies. The home's wraparound Trex deck provides the perfect perch to take in the scenery and wildlife that roam through the landscape. In addition, the current owner has
Escape to the Peace & Tranquility of Santa Fe Trail Ranch! This charming Santa Fe Style Mountain Home is perched atop the bluff of a beautifully treed lot in the Tall Pine Forest of Southern Colorado. Offering Panoramic Views of Fishers Peak/Raton Mesa, Privacy and Seclusion while being less than 10 minutes to historic Trinidad and its amenities. Perfect Get-Away or Full Time Residence - Electric
Find your Paradise in Santa Fe Trail Ranch! BIG Views of the Spanish Peaks, Sangre De Cristo's and Fishers Peak/Raton Mesa from this beautiful 35-acre parcel nestled in the tall Pine Forest of Southern Colorado. Elevated build site situated on a natural berm above Fox Trail would be ideal for a residence with a walkout basement design. Circular Driveway in place. Electric, Phone & Water at
Mega mountain views from this 35 acre parcel located on Mountain View Road on the west side of Santa Fe Trail Ranch.20 minutes from town, yet worlds beyond and covered in tall pines.See the entire Sangre de Cristo Range and both Spanish Peaks looking west plus Fishers Peak State Park looking east!Enormous building pad has been cleared on the top of the parcel. All ready for your dream
Reward your life and Enjoy Now! Plenty of land on this 35 acre beauty to build another main home later if desired...This 50 x 40 insulated Metal building was constructed for combined Garage/Shop and 1 bedroom/1 bath home. Open living area with kitchen & loft & living room is all you may need to enjoy the beauty of the meadows, forest and expansive views on all sides. Great Second building site
Gina Raye
Authentic Colorado Properties, LLC dba Colorado Land Properties
This charming home comes fully furnished so you can settle right in.On the covered porch you'll find a table and chairs so that you can enjoy the lovely cool evenings, summer storms, morning coffee. The porch opens to the living room. Inside you'll find a comfy sofa and arm chair, coffee table that can open into a desk and a TV with Amazon Fire, dining table with 2 chairs, end tables
4 bed, 2 bath home, 2880 square foot ranch style home. Full Basement. 2 car detached garage. Country setting with large yard in front and back. Great Views! No smoking. An application must be completed on our website before touring any of the rentals. If you have more specific questions, please call 719-846-6821 or go to www.tlcrealestate.com
This darling one bed one bath home is located just a couple blocks from the center of down town Trinidad. There are plenty of original vintage touches while offering the modern amenities you want. This home comes fully furnished and pets are allowed subject to some restrictions. Proof of income, rental insurance, background and credit check required.
Take a look at 808 San Pedro in lovely Trinidad, CO! This charming 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac across from a church. The property features spacious closets, inviting spaces, and a comfortable layout with plenty of character. Enjoy a nice-sized yard, perfect for relaxing, and convenient in-town living while still tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood.
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