Garrison, Colorado, is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Teller County, Colorado, United States. The population was 1,084 at the 2020 census.
Garrison is located in central Teller County, on the west side of Rampart Range Road, about 7 miles (11 km) northwest of Woodland Park. The community is unincorporated and is governed by Teller County.
Garrison is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with many hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area. The community is also home to the Ghost Town Museum, which features exhibits on the history of mining in the area.
Garrison, Colorado
Garrison, Colorado is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Teller County, Colorado, United States. The population was 1,084 at the 2020 census.
- Location: Garrison is located in central Teller County, on the west side of Rampart Range Road, about 7 miles (11 km) northwest of Woodland Park.
- Population: 1,084 (2020 census)
- Government: Unincorporated, governed by Teller County
- Economy: Tourism, recreation, mining
- Attractions: Ghost Town Museum, hiking and biking trails
- History: Garrison was founded in the late 1800s as a mining town.
- Culture: Garrison is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and history buffs.
- Future: Garrison is expected to continue to grow as a tourist destination and retirement community.
Garrison is a vibrant community with a rich history and a bright future. The town's beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a great place to live, work, and play.
1. Location
The location of Garrison, Colorado is significant for several reasons. First, its proximity to Woodland Park, a larger town with a population of over 7,000, provides residents with access to a variety of amenities and services, including shopping, dining, and healthcare. Second, Garrison's location in Teller County places it in the heart of Colorado's scenic Rocky Mountains, offering residents and visitors alike stunning views and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
In addition, Garrison's location on Rampart Range Road makes it easily accessible by car, and its proximity to major highways such as I-25 and US-24 makes it a convenient destination for day-trippers and tourists from Denver and other parts of Colorado.
Overall, the location of Garrison, Colorado is a major factor in its appeal as a place to live, work, and play.
2. Population
The population of Garrison, Colorado, was 1,084 at the 2020 census. This number represents a slight increase from the 2010 census, which counted 1,065 residents.
- Demographics: The population of Garrison is predominantly white, with a small percentage of Hispanic and Asian residents. The median age is 45.5 years, and the median household income is $75,000.
- Economy: The economy of Garrison is based on tourism, recreation, and mining. The town is home to several restaurants, shops, and hotels, as well as a number of hiking and biking trails.
- Housing: The housing market in Garrison is relatively affordable, with a median home price of $250,000. There is a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments available.
- Education: Garrison is served by the Woodland Park School District. The district operates two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school.
The population of Garrison is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The town's beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a desirable place to live, work, and play.
3. Government
Garrison, Colorado is an unincorporated community, which means that it does not have its own municipal government. Instead, it is governed by the Teller County Board of Commissioners, which is the governing body for all of Teller County.
- Implications of Unincorporated Status
There are several implications of Garrison's unincorporated status. First, it means that the town does not have its own mayor or town council. Second, it means that the town does not have its own police force or fire department. Third, it means that the town does not have its own zoning laws or building codes.
- Role of the Teller County Board of Commissioners
The Teller County Board of Commissioners is responsible for providing all of the essential services that are typically provided by a municipal government, such as law enforcement, fire protection, and road maintenance. The Board of Commissioners is also responsible for setting zoning laws and building codes for the unincorporated areas of Teller County, including Garrison.
- Benefits of Unincorporated Status
There are several benefits to Garrison's unincorporated status. First, it means that the town has lower taxes than incorporated towns and cities. Second, it means that the town has more local control over its affairs. Third, it means that the town is able to maintain its rural character.
- Challenges of Unincorporated Status
There are also some challenges to Garrison's unincorporated status. First, it means that the town does not have as much access to state and federal funding as incorporated towns and cities. Second, it means that the town is more vulnerable to annexation by neighboring incorporated towns and cities.
Overall, Garrison's unincorporated status has both benefits and challenges. The town's residents must carefully weigh these factors when making decisions about the future of their community.
4. Economy
The economy of Garrison, Colorado is based on tourism, recreation, and mining. The town is home to several restaurants, shops, and hotels, as well as a number of hiking and biking trails. The town is also home to the Ghost Town Museum, which features exhibits on the history of mining in the area.
- Tourism
Tourism is a major part of the economy of Garrison. The town's beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the state and beyond. Visitors to Garrison can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and more.
- Recreation
Recreation is another important part of the economy of Garrison. The town is home to several parks and recreation areas, including the Garrison Recreation Area, which offers a variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. The town also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as the Garrison Days festival and the Ghost Town Days festival.
- Mining
Mining has been a part of the economy of Garrison since the late 1800s. The town was founded as a mining town, and several mines were once located in the area. Today, mining is still an important part of the economy, although it is not as significant as it once was.
The economy of Garrison is closely tied to the town's natural resources and its location. The town's beautiful scenery and abundant recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists and recreation enthusiasts. The town's history of mining has also played a significant role in its economy.
5. Attractions
Garrison, Colorado is a town with a rich history and a variety of attractions for visitors. Two of the most popular attractions are the Ghost Town Museum and the town's many hiking and biking trails.
- Ghost Town Museum
The Ghost Town Museum is a living history museum that tells the story of the mining boom and bust in Colorado. The museum features exhibits on mining equipment, clothing, and daily life in a mining town. Visitors can also take a tour of the museum's historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a church, and a saloon.
- Hiking and biking trails
Garrison is surrounded by beautiful scenery, and there are many hiking and biking trails in the area. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, and there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular trails include the Rampart Range Trail, the Phantom Canyon Trail, and the Florissant Fossil Beds Trail.
These attractions are just a few of the many things that make Garrison a great place to visit. The town's friendly people, beautiful scenery, and rich history make it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
6. History
The history of Garrison, Colorado, is closely tied to the mining industry. The town was founded in the late 1800s as a mining town, and for many years, mining was the lifeblood of the community. The town's first mine was the Teller Mine, which opened in 1872. The Teller Mine was a gold mine, and it quickly attracted a large number of miners to the area. Soon, other mines were opened in the area, and Garrison became a thriving mining town.
The mining industry had a major impact on the development of Garrison. The town grew rapidly, and a variety of businesses and services sprang up to support the miners and their families. Schools, churches, and stores were built, and a railroad was constructed to connect Garrison to the outside world.
The mining industry also had a significant impact on the culture of Garrison. The town was a melting pot of different cultures, as miners from all over the world came to work in the mines. This diversity is reflected in the town's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Today, mining is no longer the primary industry in Garrison. However, the town's history as a mining town continues to shape its identity. The Ghost Town Museum, which is located in Garrison, tells the story of the town's mining past. The museum features exhibits on mining equipment, clothing, and daily life in a mining town. Visitors can also take a tour of the museum's historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a church, and a saloon.
The history of Garrison as a mining town is an important part of the town's identity. The mining industry had a major impact on the development of the town, and the town's culture continues to reflect its mining past.
7. Culture
Garrison, Colorado is a town with a rich history and a variety of attractions for visitors. Two of the most popular attractions are the Ghost Town Museum and the town's many hiking and biking trails. These attractions, along with the town's beautiful scenery and friendly people, make Garrison a popular destination for outdoor recreation and history buffs.
The connection between Garrison's culture and its popularity as a tourist destination is clear. The town's history as a mining town has left a lasting legacy, and the Ghost Town Museum is a popular attraction for visitors who want to learn more about the town's past. The town's beautiful scenery and abundant recreational opportunities also make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between Garrison's culture and its popularity as a tourist destination is that it can help businesses and organizations in the town to better market their products and services to visitors. For example, businesses could offer tours of the Ghost Town Museum or guided hikes and bike rides. Organizations could host events that celebrate the town's history and culture.
Overall, the connection between Garrison's culture and its popularity as a tourist destination is an important one. By understanding this connection, businesses and organizations in the town can better market their products and services to visitors and contribute to the town's economy.
8. Future
The future of Garrison, Colorado is bright. The town is expected to continue to grow as a tourist destination and retirement community. This growth is due to a number of factors, including the town's beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundant recreational opportunities.
- Tourism
Garrison is a popular destination for tourists from all over the state and beyond. The town's beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a great place to visit. Visitors to Garrison can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and more.
- Retirement
Garrison is also a popular destination for retirees. The town's affordable housing, beautiful scenery, and friendly people make it a great place to spend your golden years. Retirees in Garrison can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and more.
The growth of Garrison as a tourist destination and retirement community is good news for the town. It will lead to increased economic development and job creation. It will also help to preserve the town's unique character and charm.
FAQs about Garrison, Colorado
Here are some frequently asked questions about Garrison, Colorado:
Question 1: What is Garrison, Colorado known for?
Garrison, Colorado is known for its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of recreational opportunities. The town is also home to the Ghost Town Museum, which tells the story of the town's mining past.
Question 2: What are some of the most popular attractions in Garrison, Colorado?
Some of the most popular attractions in Garrison, Colorado include the Ghost Town Museum, the Rampart Range Trail, the Phantom Canyon Trail, and the Florissant Fossil Beds Trail.
Question 3: What is the history of Garrison, Colorado?
Garrison, Colorado was founded in the late 1800s as a mining town. The town's first mine was the Teller Mine, which opened in 1872. The mining industry had a major impact on the development of Garrison, and the town grew rapidly.
Question 4: What is the culture of Garrison, Colorado?
The culture of Garrison, Colorado is influenced by the town's history as a mining town. The town is a melting pot of different cultures, and its architecture, cuisine, and traditions reflect this diversity.
Question 5: What is the future of Garrison, Colorado?
The future of Garrison, Colorado is bright. The town is expected to continue to grow as a tourist destination and retirement community.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Garrison, Colorado. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact the Garrison Chamber of Commerce.
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Learn more about Garrison, Colorado
To learn more about Garrison, Colorado, please visit the town's website or the website of the Garrison Chamber of Commerce.
Tips for Visiting Garrison, Colorado
Garrison, Colorado is a beautiful town with a rich history and a variety of attractions for visitors. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Tip 1: Visit the Ghost Town Museum.
The Ghost Town Museum is a living history museum that tells the story of the mining boom and bust in Colorado. The museum features exhibits on mining equipment, clothing, and daily life in a mining town. Visitors can also take a tour of the museum's historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a church, and a saloon.
Tip 2: Hike or bike the Rampart Range Trail.
The Rampart Range Trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The trail is 14 miles long and can be hiked or biked in either direction. Along the way, you'll pass through forests, meadows, and rock formations.
Tip 3: Visit the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.
The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is home to some of the best-preserved fossils in the world. The fossils date back to the Eocene epoch, when the area was covered by a subtropical forest. Visitors can walk among the fossils and learn about the ancient plants and animals that lived here.
Tip 4: Attend the Garrison Days festival.
The Garrison Days festival is an annual event that celebrates the town's history and culture. The festival features live music, food, games, and activities for the whole family. The festival is held in August.
Tip 5: Stay in a historic hotel.
Garrison is home to several historic hotels that offer a unique and charming experience. These hotels are often located in the town's historic district and offer amenities such as fireplaces, clawfoot tubs, and antique furniture.
These are just a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Garrison, Colorado. With its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of attractions, Garrison is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can experience the best that Garrison, Colorado has to offer. From exploring the town's history at the Ghost Town Museum to hiking the Rampart Range Trail and visiting the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, there is something for everyone in Garrison.
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So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Garrison, Colorado today and experience all that this charming town has to offer.
Conclusion
Garrison, Colorado is a vibrant town with a rich history and a bright future. The town's beautiful scenery, friendly people, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a great place to live, work, and play. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a charming small town to visit, Garrison is sure to have something to offer you.
As the town continues to grow, it is important to preserve its unique character and charm. By supporting local businesses, attending community events, and volunteering your time, you can help to ensure that Garrison remains a special place for generations to come.
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