Meeker

Located near the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, home to the world's largest herd of indigenous elk, Meeker is a true ranching town. Fishing and hunting are also big businesses here. Area guest ranches and endless outdoor adventures draw visitors to this out-of-the-way town. Although most outdoor excursions are in your hands to plan, there are some local fly-fishing guides. Elk Creek Ranch will set you up with lessons and accommodations.

Several lakes are accessible from Meeker, including popular Trapper's Lake. You can stay over here — 14 rustic lodges freckle the lake's shores. A dramatically scenic drive is the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway; the 82-mile drive starts in Meeker and offers lots of picturesque pull-offs along the journey to Yampa.

Locals tend to meet and eat the Meeker Cafe, next to the historic hotel with the same first name. And the White River Museum, housed in part of original log military quarters, collects everything from American Indian artifacts to photographs of early settlers. There's also a short, self-guided tour of historic downtown that's available to the public.

Two local festivals are worth mentioning: Range Call, a historic Fourth of July rodeo, and the annual Sheep Dog Trials in September.