Walsenburg is a peaceful town surrounded by Colorado landscapes
Walsenburg offers small-town living and relatively low housing costs with great views of the Spanish Peaks, two mountains standing over 13,000 feet tall. “They’re a really unique geological feature,” says Sarah Jardis, a broker and Realtor at Code of the West Real Estate with more than 8 years of experience. “It’s a draw for visitors. Groups from university programs come in to explore too.” Even though the mountains draw visitors and university geologists, tourism isn't a huge draw for the community. Residents appreciate the small-town feel and scenic views, and the opportunities for outdoor recreation that surround the town.
Low housing costs with opportunities for acreage
Homes tend to be wide set, divided by gravel back alleys. At the town’s core, there are pockets of historical Victorian properties and Craftsman cottages, while minimalist ranch-style homes and manufactured properties make up the rest of the inventory. Further out into the county, there are sprawling farms and equestrian properties, though these often rely on private utilities and well water. Prices generally range from $100,000 to $350,000, though investment properties needing repairs can sell for less. Many empty lots are available for new construction, typically selling for between $9,000 and $75,000 for up to 35 acres. The Walsenburg has a median price of around $240,000, which is much less than that of nearby larger cities — Colorado Springs has a median of around $4650,000.
Athletic courts, boating and biking throughout the county
Green spaces are scattered throughout the community. City Park has a skate park, while Civic League Park has basketball and tennis courts. Fiesta Park has baseball and softball diamonds, located on what used to be the county fairgrounds. Heritage Park is a centrally located downtown with a grass space that hosts the Walsenburg Farm & Maker’s Market from June to September. Outside of town, Lathrop State Park is located on the banks of Martin and Horseshoe Lakes, making it a hot spot for swimming, kayaking and fishing. In addition to state and city parks, other hobbies like gravel biking have been growing in popularity. “People get out using somewhat specialized bikes and cycle gravel backroads all through the county,” Jardis says. “There are gorgeous views, and it’s a really cool way to explore.”
Locally owned shops and restaurants near downtown
Covering a few blocks of Main Street, Walsenburg’s small downtown district is full of colorful antique stores and boutiques, as well as local restaurants. Corine’s Mexican Food opened in 1956 and is a community staple. Also downtown, Crafty Canary Brewery serves craft brews and farm-to-table meals. Nearby grocery stores include First Choice Market.
Traveling to nearby cities on Interstate 25
Interstate 25 bisects Walsenburg, leading about 50 miles to Pueblo. The Colorado Department of Transportation’s Bustang program operates intercity bus routes, including the Outrider, which stops in Walsenburg on the way from Trinidad to Pueblo. Mount San Rafael Hospital is the nearest medical center, less than 40 miles away in Trinidad. Colorado Springs Airport is about 90 miles away.
Local schools have outdoor-focused programs
Peakview School, which earns a C-minus from Niche, serves elementary schoolers in the area. The B-minus-rated Walsenburg Junior Senior High School offers an outdoor education program and an after-school club, where students go on skiing, snowboarding and hiking trips.
Annual Celtic music festival in La Veta
The annual Spanish Peaks International Celtic Music Festival takes place in September in the neighboring town of La Veta. In addition to live music performances, the event includes dozens of workshops and open sessions, including classes from scholars and historians as well as group singing and dancing.
