Getting to Know Naturita, Colorado
When you start talking about small-town Colorado you could be talking about Naturita, Colorado. If definitely qualifies.
You might be surprised to discover how many western Colorado residents have never graced the city limits of Naturita. We've all seen the mileage sign on Highway 50 with the arrow that points to Naturita, but how many of us have actually been there?
Located in western Montrose County, you're not likely to find Naturita by accident. You might be on your way to Nucla or have some business in Cortez, but the road to Naturita is not going to be among the state's most traveled highways.
There's been a post office at Naturita since 1882, so there is definitely some history associated with the town. Nearby is an area where movie scenes have been filmed including Thelma and Louise.
The estimated population of Naturita is nearly 550, about half of what it was in 1960. The town has a total area of 0.7 square miles, so you definitely don't need to worry about getting lost.
There isn't a lot in Naturita, but probably everything you would truly need. There is an inn, some hotels, gas stations, a bank, a grocery store, an elementary school, a campground, some churches, a park, and a few other things.
You'll find an auto repair shop, a medical clinic, a car dealer, restaurant, a library, and, of course, a saloon.
Like I said, pretty much everything you could want or need is right there in Naturita. And no doubt it's absent of plenty of things you could do without like traffic, noise, crime, and roundabouts.