Slater

Amenities are nil, and only a post office marks this tiny border-hugging village. Dude ranches, however, do carve out an existence in this pastoral, creek-fed valley.

Fishing, hunting, and hiking all within a drive off Slater. The Routt National Forest and Elkhead Mountains south of town will provide plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventures. Steamboat Springs is also popular for skiing and other winter sports.

County Road 82 out of Slater follows Slater Creek into the backside of the Elkhead Mountains, an area guaranteed to be crowd-free. Head west on U.S. 40 for rafting on the Green River and archeological explorations in Dinosaur National Monument. The nearest amenities, including food and lodging, are available south of town off Colorado 13 in Craig.