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
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GreatSchools:
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Serene Mountain Living in Trinidad Lake Ranches! Inviting Ranch Style home featuring 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, beautifully updated kitchen and 3,456 sq ft. of comfortable living space, strategically situated on over 37-acres of Pine Forest in Southern Colorado! Gorgeous Panoramic Views of the Spanish Peaks and Sangre De Cristo Mountain Range. You will find Peace, Privacy and Seclusion while being only
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
Peace & Tranquility with Panoramic Views of the Spanish Peaks, Sangre De Cristo's, Greenhorn Mtn and Fishers Peak/Raton Mesa from this stunning 35-acre parcel nestled in the tall Pine Forest of Southern Colorado! Beautifully treed lot with Natural Meadows and multiple build sites on a flat ledge running the length of the property along Fisher Peak Parkway. Extensively Mitigated - Electric and
MULTI OPPORTUNITY HOME with Custom Woodwork and Floors Awaits the Buyer looking for either a Professional Home Base with privacy comforts; a First Time Home Buyer Classy Residence or other Guest and roommate accommodation possibilities! Featuring a practical layout and a manageable homesite, this single-family home supports everyday living with space to spread out. 1,970 aproz sq ft offers
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
Step into timeless character and modern comfort with this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick home offering 1,474 square feet in the heart of Trinidad. Rich with historic charm, this inviting property showcases original woodwork, exposed brick accents, and warm, welcoming spaces throughout. A cozy wood stove and charming bay window create the perfect gathering spot in the living area,
Custom-Built Ranch Style Mountain Retreat on a beautiful, gently sloping and usable 35-acre parcel in the splendor of Southern Colorado! Insulated Concrete Form Construction offers Safety, Durability and Energy Efficiency! Enjoy quality upgrades throughout this open & inviting, 4 bedroom, 4-bathroom floorplan. Chef's Kitchen with Built-in Ovens, Island, Bar, Pantry & Prep Sink! Expansive covered
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
Great home with lots of space, ready to make your own! Step into a light-filled living room featuring a beautiful bay window and soaring vaulted ceiling, opening into the dining room with French doors leading onto the big back deck. Large kitchen with lots of counterspace and newer appliances. The primary bedroom includes a 5-piece en suite bathroom with jetted tub, and a big walk-in closet. Also
Updated 3-Bedroom Home on a Fenced Corner Lot! Welcome to 110 E 6th Street, a practical and fully refreshed home offering exceptional outdoor space and room to grow on a prime corner lot in Trinidad, Colorado. This move-in-ready residence features 1,133 square feet of main-level living area with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. The interior has been cleanly updated with fresh paint, new flooring,
Building for sale or lease! The interior has been meticulously renovated while preserving the exterior's historic character and charm. Built in the early 1900s as the 1st Baptist Church in Trinidad, this building has a rich history and has been preserved for many years to come. The backyard and paved parking area enhance the property's aesthetic appeal and functionality. Located just off I-25
This bright, historic 1921 home blends classic character with modern flexibility. It features original wood floors, high ceilings, and abundant natural light. The layout includes two main-floor bedrooms, a private room above the garage, and on the lower-level, 1 more bedroom, complemented by a large bonus entertainment room, ideal as pool room, gym, etc.... A very spacious screened porch for
2 bed 2 bath, updated manufactured home in the Trinidad Manufactured Home Park. Comes with Washer, Dryer, Range, Refrigerator, Dishwasher and Air conditioning. No Pets. Storage shed also on the property.
This beautifully renovated two-bedroom home features fresh paint, a new kitchen and bathroom, and brand-new windows, all culminating in a spacious and airy open design. This property is a must-see. The tenant is responsible for all utilities and trash, and the lease term is one year. Some pets are allowed.Utilities: Tenant Pays AllApplication Fee: $65 per appAdmin Fee
Very spacious Half the building , 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, hardwood floors, LV, DR, Kitchen with new appliances, W/D off kitchen. tenants also pay half water and sewer bill. 2 bdrm, 1 full bath, hardwood floors, remodeled, new appliances.
4-5 Bedroom 2 bath 2-story home. Roomy with fenced yard. No Pets and NO SMOKING OF ANY KIND. Complete the application at Go to Rentals and then Select Apply on line - Fee is $35 for anyone over the age of 18.
This fully renovated home offers the best of both worlds: total privacy when you want it and space to bring everyone together under one roof. Originally set up as a duplex, this property now comes together as a spacious 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with 2,476 square feet, two full kitchens, two living rooms, and its own washer and dryer.The walk out basement level features 2 bedrooms, 1
2 bed 2 bath updated home, wood floors. Comfortable. Stairs to downstairs bedroom and bathroom. Yard and Carport. Great views of the City of Trinidad. Call me today. NO SMOKING. Application is online at Click on Rentals, Fee is $35
Welcome to our newly renovated 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment in Trinidad, CO. This freshly painted unit features an updated kitchen and bathroom, along with newer appliances for your convenience. Enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry facilities and the peace of mind of having all utilities included, except gas. Don't miss out on this opportunity to call this cozy apartment your new home.
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