Pine, Colorado

Overview

Pine, Colorado, is your escape hatch to serene seclusion-where the loudest thing you'll hear is a pinecone falling or a squirrel complaining about it. This unincorporated gem in the Front Range foothills, about 45 miles southwest of Denver, is surrounded by national forest, rocky ridges, and whisper-level wilderness. With just a handful of buildings, a general store, and more trailheads than traffic lights, Pine (also known as Pine Grove) is the ultimate anti-hustle town. Come for the quiet hikes, stay because your soul has officially exhaled.

Top Attractions

Pine Valley Ranch Park

A peaceful county park with lakeside trails, riverside picnic areas, and mountain views that actually lower your blood pressure.

North Fork Trail

A gentle, wooded trail that links Pine Valley to the Colorado Trail-perfect for a quiet walk, run, or equine companion.

Catamount Institute Outdoor Classroom

Nature-based learning for kids and adults-because a pinecone can be educational.

Pine Grove Historic District

A postcard-sized town core with 1880s vibes, old barns, and the occasional artsy event.

Bucksnort Saloon (technically in nearby Sphinx Park)

A legendary watering hole built into a boulder-rustic, rowdy, and just off the edge of reality.

Unique Stories & Facts

• Colorado Trail Connection: Pine is a key point on the 500-mile Colorado Trail so yes, you could walk to Durango from here, but maybe just have lunch first.
• Fire & Forest Lore: The area has bounced back from wildfires with resilience and reforestation efforts locals wear flannel and fight flames.
• Hidden Artist Nooks: The piney surroundings have quietly attracted plein air painters, glassblowers, and potters check open studio signs on back roads.
• River That Whispers: The North Fork South Platte River runs through town, and yes, locals swear it murmurs ideas if you're quiet enough.

Best Travel Seasons

Popular Activities

• Day Hiking: Try the Buck Gulch Trail or Strawberry Jack Trail-quiet, scenic, and totally unplugged.
• Fly Fishing: Cast into the North Fork of the South Platte trout whisper "thank you" before they swim away.
• Picnicking & Stargazing: Pine Valley Ranch offers picnic spots with alpine views, and at night the stars show off like they're auditioning for a planetarium.
• Snowshoeing & Nordic Skiing: Winter trails feel like a snow globe you're allowed to live in.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, hawks, and the occasional philosophical marmot.
• Pine-Elk Creek Trail Loop: Scenic, quiet, and ideal for introverted trail runners or camera-toting birders.

Famous Buffets Nearby (~20 Miles)

• Twin Forks Tavern (Morrison - 20 miles): No buffet, but upscale comfort food with generous servings that feel unlimited.
• Cutthroat Café (Bailey - 12 miles): Not a buffet, but hearty portions of pancakes, burgers, and local friendliness.

Casinos Nearby (~30 Miles)

• Black Hawk & Central City (28 miles): Historic gold rush towns turned gaming havens-slot machines meet saloon nostalgia.

Oddities Nearby (~20 Miles)

• Bucksnort Saloon: Possibly the quirkiest bar in the Rockies graffiti, moose heads, and an outdoor stage that looks like a hobbit threw a hoedown.
• Treeface Rock: A naturally weathered pine that looks suspiciously like it's judging your trail mix choices.
• Unpaved Art Tours: Scattered along Pine's backroads, you'll spot random art installations, mailboxes with sculpted bears, and at least one homemade Sasquatch.
• Disappearing Bench: A roadside bench that vanishes every few months possibly due to weather, possibly due to mountain gremlins.

Haunted Tourism Nearby (~20 Miles)

• Pine Cemetery: Small, historic, and spooky in just the right way-alleged whispers heard during foggy mornings.
• Sphinx Park Caves: Tucked behind the Bucksnort Saloon-rumored to be home to spirits and serious echoes.
• Abandoned Cabins on Forest Roads: Quiet... too quiet. Locals tell tales of lantern lights and creaking floors.

Local Events & Festivals

• Rhubarbfest (June): Yes, it's real. Pine's beloved tribute to rhubarb features pies, music, and small-town joy.
• Mountain Arts Festival (Fall): Artists open their studios to the public-art, cider, and mountain vibes included.
• Stargazing Nights (Seasonal): Local astronomy clubs host telescopic nights at Pine Valley Ranch come for Saturn, stay for the stories.
• Bucksnort Outdoor Music Nights: Summer weekends bring twangy tunes and BBQ under the boulders.

Lodging Options (Types and Recommendations)

Luxury: None in Pine proper

Closest high-end stays are in Evergreen or Morrison.

Mid-Range: Rustic cabins and Airbnb retreats

Many with hot tubs, fireplaces, and forest views (from $150/night).

Budget: Bailey Lodge (12 miles)

Quaint roadside motel with mountain views and affordable charm (from $100/night).

Camping: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

Nearby dispersed sites, perfect for tent lovers and star-chasers (from free to $25/night).

Dining (Local Cuisine Highlights)

Bucksnort Saloon

Burgers, beers, and chili served with a side of wild west weird.

Zoka's Restaurant (Pine Junction)

Upscale comfort food and cocktails with a local twist-great patio.

Cutthroat Café (Bailey)

Homestyle breakfast and smiles that last all day.

Aspen Perk Café (Conifer - 20 miles)

Great coffee, sandwiches, and a "bring your dog" vibe.

Travel Tips

• What to Pack: Hiking boots, layers, water bottle, bear spray (just in case), and a map-cell service is spotty.
• Safety: Trails are safe but lightly trafficked hike with a buddy or leave your plans with a friend.
• Accessibility: Most restaurants and parking lots are accessible; trails vary in difficulty and terrain.

Nearby Destinations Within 20 Miles

• Bailey: Small-town charm with great cafes, fly shops, and mountain art galleries.
• Conifer: Slightly bigger town with grocery stores, cafes, and a gateway to Denver.
• Buffalo Creek: Trail network and biking paradise with pine forest serenity.
• Staunton State Park: Epic views, climbing routes, and waterfall hikes highly recommended.

Recommended Duration of Stay

2-3 Days: Plenty of time for peaceful hikes, ghost stories, and slow sips at the Bucksnort.

Target Travelers

• Hikers & Nature Lovers: Quiet trails, big skies, and uncrowded paths.
• Denverites Escaping Noise: Just far enough to feel remote, just close enough to be convenient.
• Writers & Creatives: Perfect spot for a secluded cabin, notebook, and inspiration.
• Families & Couples: Kid-friendly hikes, cozy lodging, and good old-fashioned mountain calm.

Listen to Our Podcast Episode!

"Pine, Colorado: Where Trails Outnumber Tourists" - Explore the quiet wilderness of the Front Range.