Alpaca Wool
An animal that originated in the Andes Mountains of South America is perfectly acclimated to our high-altitude climate. Their wool is incredibly soft and warm — something we’re grateful for during the winter months. You can find alpaca yarn and hats, sweaters, scarves, socks and more made with it all over the state.
A Few Places to Find It:
- Estes Park Wool Market (June)
- Little Circle Farm Alpacas in Penrose (yarn skeins adorably come with the name and photo of the friendly alpaca it originated on)
- Blazing Star Ranch in Englewood
- Antelope Alpacas Fiber Arts Center in Elizabeth
- Salida Fiber Festival
All-Natural Beauty Products
Creams, balms, sprays, essential oils, soaps and more — at this altitude, we gotta work to keep a moisturized, healthy glow. Many crafty artisans are turning raw local ingredients into luxurious substances we want to rub all over ourselves.
A Few Faves:
- Calendula Creme from Green Earth Farm, made in small batches with many herbs grown on site in Saguache; find it at Natural Grocers and other retailers who care about hydrating your skin.
- Elbert’s Naked Goat Farm: Buy their Baby Goat Body Cream and other soothing salves at their shop, which also boasts a pretty sweet cafe.
- Little Moon Essentials in Steamboat Springs; we especially like the Sleep Comes Easy Pack and the terrifically named Tired Old Ass Cream.
Lavender
Our dry, sunny climate is ideal for growing this versatile plant, and nearly 40 growers across the state are stocking us with dried bundles that are great for decoration or fragrant sachets, pillows and potpourris, as well as soothing lotions, creams and soaps made with lavender oils. (We should note that there are some forms you should eat — lavender wines, shortbreads and more are growing in popularity across the state.)
A Few Places to Find It:
- Colorado Lavender Festival in Palisade (June)
- Farmers’ markets and food stands everywhere
- Lamborn Mountain Farmstead in Paonia
- St. Kathryn Cellars and High Country Orchards in Palisade
- Dayspring Farm in Olathe (farm store open spring/summer)
