Craig, CO

Craig, Colorado, is a small town located in Moffat County in the northwestern part of the state. The history of Craig can be traced back to the late 1870s when the area was mainly occupied by Ute Native American tribes.

In the late 1870s and early 1880s, white settlers started arriving in the region, primarily attracted by the discovery of rich coal deposits. The town's name is believed to have been inspired by Reverend William Bayard Craig, a member of the Hayden Survey, who visited the area in 1878.

As more settlers arrived, Craig quickly developed into a tent city, known as "Yampa," due to the creek that flows through the area. However, in 1888, the town's name was changed to Craig. Around this time, both agriculture and coal mining were booming, bringing in more people to the area.

In the early 20th century, Craig saw significant growth and development. It became the center of Moffat County, with the courthouse and other essential services located in the town. The surrounding coalfields provided employment opportunities, attracting workers from all over the country.

The coal mining industry remained a vital part of Craig's economy throughout the 20th century, with several mines operating in the area. The railroad also played a significant role in the town's development, as it facilitated the transportation of coal and other resources.

In recent years, Craig has faced challenges, particularly with the decline of coal mining in the region. Several mines have closed, leading to job losses and economic slowdown. To counter these challenges, the town has embarked on diversifying its economy by promoting tourism, outdoor recreation, and renewable energy projects.

Today, Craig is still a small town with a population of around 8,500 people. It is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including the Yampa Valley and the stunning peaks of the nearby Rocky Mountains. The area offers various outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping, attracting visitors from all around.

Despite its challenges, Craig preserves its proud coal mining heritage and continues to adapt to changing economic circumstances while cherishing its natural beauty and small-town community spirit.

Elkhead Reservoir State Park

A popular spot for boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.

Moffat County Museum

Showcasing the history and culture of the region through exhibits and artifacts.

Yampa River State Park

Offering opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing along the Yampa River.

Sandwash Basin

A designated wild horse refuge where visitors can see and interact with wild horses in their natural habitat.

Wyman Living History Museum

Featuring historic buildings, artifacts, and events that showcase the pioneer lifestyle.

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge

A scenic area along the Green River known for its diverse wildlife and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Dinosaur National Monument

Located nearby in Jensen, UT, this famous national monument offers hiking trails, dinosaur fossils, and stunning landscapes.

Black Mountain Recreation Area

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering trails for hiking, biking, and ATV riding, as well as hunting and fishing opportunities.

Loudy-Simpson Park

A recreational park with facilities for various sports including baseball, softball, soccer, and disc golf.

Craig City Park

A community park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths for leisurely outings.

Craig, Colorado experiences a semi-arid climate. The town is located in a high desert region, which means it gets relatively little precipitation throughout the year. The summers in Craig are warm with low humidity levels, while the winters are cold and often snowy.

Summers in Craig typically start in June and last until August. Average high temperatures during this period range from the upper 70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (25-32 degrees Celsius). However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to occasionally reach the upper 90s Fahrenheit (35-37 degrees Celsius). Nights tend to cool down significantly with lows in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (5-15 degrees Celsius). Craig receives limited rainfall during the summer months, which results in dry weather conditions.

Winters in Craig are generally cold and snowy, lasting from November through March. Average high temperatures range from the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (around 0-5 degrees Celsius). However, winter temperatures can drop below freezing, especially during the nights, with lows in the single digits or negative Fahrenheit (-10 to -20 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is frequent in Craig, with an average of around 50 inches (127 centimeters) per year.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Craig, characterized by mild temperatures and fluctuating weather patterns. Spring starts in April and brings warmer weather with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius), while fall starts in September, gradually transitioning into cooler temperatures with highs in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius).

Overall, Craig, Colorado has a relatively dry, semi-arid climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. It is important to note that weather patterns can vary from year to year and that extreme temperature fluctuations can occur.

Craig, CO is a small town located in Moffat County in Northwestern Colorado. While there might not be distinct neighborhoods in the same way that you would find in a larger city, there are several areas that can be considered distinct within Craig.

Downtown

This is the heart of Craig, where you'll find the majority of the town's businesses, shops, and services. It is also home to City Park, which offers a pleasant green space for the community to gather and relax.

West Craig

This area is located west of downtown and primarily consists of residential neighborhoods. West Craig is known for its quiet streets and proximity to parks, schools, and the Yampa River.

East Craig

This area is located east of downtown and is also predominantly residential. East Craig is a bit more spread out, with larger properties and homes. It is also close to larger retail stores and restaurants.

Shadow Mountain

This neighborhood is situated on the south side of Craig and is known for its beautiful views of the Yampa Valley. It offers a mix of residential properties, ranging from single-family homes to larger estates.

Woodbury Park

Located on the northeast side of town, Woodbury Park is a popular neighborhood with families. It features well-maintained homes, parks, and a sense of community. There is also a golf course in this area.

Sage Crest

Situated on the northwest side of Craig, Sage Crest is a newer residential development. It offers modern houses, spacious lots, and a peaceful atmosphere. The neighborhood is surrounded by picturesque landscapes.

Overall, the different neighborhoods in Craig offer a variety of housing options and amenities while maintaining the small-town charm and close-knit community feel.