About the North Fork Valley
The North Fork Valley is made up of three small towns with big culture. Consisting of Hotchkiss, Paonia, Crawford, and the many valleys and mesas in between, there's endless opportunities for exploration. Each downtown district has its own flavor, and is surrounded by farms, wineries, and wilderness.
Crawford, Colorado was first founded in 1882 and officially incorporated in 1911. The town was named for George Crawford who also helped found Grand Junction, Colorado.
Crawford is the smallest of the three towns in the North Fork Valley but is surely not to be missed! With a population of just about 400, this is real rural living, off the beaten path, and not too close to anything. As a result, you can experience some of the clearest waters and darkest skies around.
Take day trips to hike the rim, descend to the canyon floor, or raft the raging rapids that carved the steepest canyon walls in North America. Bring the paddleboards for some SUP at Crawford State Park, or get out and explore the unique landscape of the Curecanti National Recreation Area featuring deep canyons, volcanic spires, and the mighty Gunnison River. A little closer to town, explore the Needle Rock Recreation Area characterized by a 800 ft tall volcanic plug cropping out of the mesa.
Crawford was also once home to British musical legend Joe Cocker's. Mad Dog Ranch was famous for throwing lavish parties that welcomed the locals with open arms. Play tribute to the legend at his gravesite in Garden of Memories Cemetery, Crawford, Colorado.
While you’re in town, grab a bite to eat at one of the local spots that will treat you to a real homemade meal.
Hotchkiss, Colorado was incorporated in 1900 by its founder Enos Hotchkiss. Enos first explored the area about 20 years prior to anglo-settlement and the forceful removal of the Ute people. In 1882, the post office was completed, and in 1987, Hotchkiss’ first major commercial building, the Hotchkiss Hotel, was finished being built.
Hotchkiss has a strong tradition of ranching, in fact it was the first place that sheep were grazed in the North Fork Valley. More recently, award-winning vineyards have become a part of the local agricultural scene. Work up your appetite for a locally-sourced, farm-to-table dinner with world class fly fishing on the Gunnison River.
The Delta County Fairgrounds, home to the Hotchkiss Sheep Dog Trials, is located here. You'll also find the stunning and delightfully surprising Church of Art tucked away on 1st Street; an abandoned church turned art installation. The Creamery Arts Center is a not-to-be-missed pillar of downtown, featuring artwork of all kinds by regional artists inspired by the local landscape and culture.
Paonia’s first Anglo residents arrived in 1880 and the town was later incorporated in 1902. The area was previously Ute hunting grounds until the Meeker Massacre that forcibly removed them from the area.
One of Paonia founders, Samuel Wade, brought peony root stock to plant and consequently named the town for his favorite flower. He first submitted "Paeonia" (the Latin name for the peony), but The U.S. Postal Service shortened the spelling to "Paonia," claiming an extra vowel.
Early Anglo settlers planted extensive fruit trees, and Paonia quickly became famous for its orchards. Paonia peaches won top awards at the 1893 World's Fair, and their local wineries continue to bring home the accolades today. During the summer months you can find local fruit of every variety from cherries to nectarines to pears and apples.
Paonia is also a Certified International Dark Sky Community with some of the darkest and clearest skies in the world.
While you'll there be sure to stop in the host of galleries and boutiques showcasing locally-made wares. Paonia is also known for their incredible free music scene happening throughout the area. Catch acts from local maestros to national acts like The Motet and Devotchka.
