Explore Gunnison, Colorado
Gunnison is a place that harkens back to the Old West. The community retains its ties to a century of ranching with its wide open spaces, friendly folks and Cattlemen’s Days, one of the oldest rodeos in Colorado. Its location offers easy access to the largest body of water in the state at Blue Mesa Reservoir. Whether it is waterskiing, sailing, fly fishing, or camping with the family, Gunnison provides the perfect recreational and western getaway.
Gunnison History
Named after John W. Gunnison, a US Army officer who surveyed for the transcontinental railroad in 1853. With the mining boom in the 1870s along with an increase of ranchers, there was a population increase during this time. The D&RGW was the main railroad serving this area for about 70 years for townspeople and ore. It was a major producer of hay and other various grains most of which shipped to Crested Butte.
Home to Western Colorado University.
