Happy Trails
Elevation 5,351 ft.
Population 1,084
Hotchkiss is truly one of the friendliest towns on Our Side of the Divide! This little town along the West Elk Loop is named after the man who led the first group of settlers to the area, Enos T. Hotchkiss. Hotchkiss was incorporated in 1900, just months after Mr. Hotchkiss’s death. The town’s namesake is an inductee into the Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Visitors to Hotchkiss can choose from several lovely bed and breakfasts, motels, camping, lodges and cabins.
Finally the North Fork Valley, an eclectic region in the county offering farm-to-table dinners, wineries, the North Fork Creative District, Jumbo Mountain Bike Trail, and the entrance to the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. A region that celebrates mining history, the cowboy way, organic farming and the unique qualities of it’s residents.
Attractions
Located in a pastoral valley brimming with bountiful orchards, antique shops and sweeping vistas, Hotchkiss also hosts the Delta County Fair which celebrates the many splendors and skills of local agriculture.
On the main street, contemporary local art work is displayed at the town’s restored Creamery, now the Creamery Arts Center. Stroll through the gallery and take time to notice the restrooms. The artworks at the Creamery are endless.
Enjoy an educational visit to the Hotchkiss-Crawford Historical Society Museum, located at 180 2nd St., in Hotchkiss.
Shadescapes showroom for America is located on Bridge Street right here in Hotchkiss. What do they do?: Create inviting outdoor spacesthat bring people together. From restaurants and resorts to museums and botanical gardens, municipalities and medical centers to universities and country clubs, shopping centers and theme parks to home communities and private homes – take a look at how design professionals, discriminating businesses and homeowners are incorporating ShadeScapes products into their projects.
Stop in one of the local eateries for a meal, a sweet treat, or just “chew the fat” with one of the locals. This is an old country community filled with history, local lore and friendly folks.
Just outside town the Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery consists of a hatchery building with a small visitor center and tank room, residences, 32 outdoor concrete raceways, 24 nursery tanks, and 6 earthen ponds. A great place for the family to visit!
Wineries
Try Jack Rabbit Hill, an innovative 70-acre farm located in western Colorado’s North Fork Valley. We make organic and Biodynamic wines that naturally celebrate this wonderful Earth. Available direct and from stores and restaurants in Colorado, Maryland, Washington DC and Virginia.
Leroux Creek Vineyards boasts the wines of a Frenchman on the hillside of Hotchkiss, reminiscent of the “Provence Countryside”. They are crafting a Chambourcin, Cayuga and other specialty wines for this region.
Annual Events
Hotchkiss Sheep Camp Stock Dog Trials
Hotchkiss goes to the dogs in May. The Hotchkiss Sheep Camp Stock Dog Trials test the abilities of canine and handler. It is a pure delight to watch as “man’s best friend” gathers and herds their woolly friends. Camp wagon contests and great food are all a part of the day. This event happens on Mother’s Day weekend and the whole town goes to the dogs!
The Delta County Fair
The Delta County Fair at the Delta County Fairgrounds in Hotchkiss takes place in the beginning of August. There is nothing quite like celebrating the hard work and love that 4H kids put into to raising their animals–and the fair is there chance to show off! One can also find two rodeos, a community BBQ night, and the always crowd pleasing Demolition Derby! For more info visit deltacountyfair.com.
More Information
Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 158
Hotchkiss, CO 81419
970-872-3226
