Park County

Park County, with its spectacular views, rich history and challenging climate was established in 1861. It is home to the nation’s highest incorporated town, gold mines, mountain passes and rare plant communities. Forty-five miles wide from east to west, and 60 miles long, it encompasses 2,166 square miles and includes more territory above 9,000 feet than any other Colorado county. Federal lands comprise about 51 percent of Park County’s landmass. Primary population centers include Fairplay, Alma, Bailey, Como, Guffey, Lake George, Hartsel, Shawnee, Grant and Jefferson.

Several named mountain ranges define the perimeter of Park County, including the Mosquito Range above Fairplay and Alma. This spectacular range includes four of Colorado’s peaks higher than 14,000 feet. Despite the harsh climate, or perhaps because of it, this landscape is home to a number of botanical rarities and truly unique biological communities. The high mountains and broad valleys that comprise Park County are an integral part of its heritage and appeal. While mining and ranching are a remnant of what they were historically, the influence of these traditional industries on the local culture is apparent.

Park County exemplifies the trend seen in many rural areas: the local economy has become more dependent on tourism and real estate development. In effect, the area has become a bedroom community and outdoor recreation area for Metro Denver, Colorado Springs and neighboring resort counties. At the same time, the number of annual residential building starts declined 57% between 1995 and 2006. This is a place where quality of life does not equate to the convenience of suburban amenities. While community infrastructure development has not kept pace with population growth, “basic” services and amenities are gradually becoming established in the Bailey and Fairplay areas.

Many existing businesses are enjoying a steady increase in annual income and several have now reached the point of expanding their operations. But the demand for jobs still far exceeds the number of employment operations. Recent advances in transportation and communications have resulted in increased opportunities for home-based and entrepreneurial businesses.

There have been many recent Park County actions and achievements to address needs and possibilities. New community facilities to address key community needs include the building of the South Park Community Recreation Center, Rocky Mountain Rural Health clinic facility, Platte Canyon Search & Rescue facility, and the Mountain Peace Shelter. Community partnerships have resulted in the establishment of the Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative and expansion of the South Park Parents as Teachers Program. Over the last decade, partners in the Park County Heritage Program have raised in excess of $15 to permanently protect 21, 000 acres: inspired the donation of an additional $12 million in conservation easement value and established the South Park Fly Fishers program.

Much has been accomplished but many needs still exist and must be addressed. A number of unique challenges continue to face our region including geographic isolation, limited access to care, limited financial resources and limited economic development.

Park County government agencies, area nonprofits, businesses and local residents are keenly aware of our abundant resources and continuing community needs. We also know each other well and realize that innovative partnerships across all sectors, open communication and hard work are keys to our future success. We look forward to working with you.

Compiled by Cara Doyle with thanks to Gary Nichols, Park County Community Development & Tourism Office

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