Tourism Board
Discover the natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and mountain heritage that make Custer County a unique destination in Colorado's high country.
Welcome to Custer County
Nestled in the heart of the Wet Mountain Valley at over 8,000 feet elevation, Custer County offers breathtaking mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and a genuine small-town atmosphere.
About Custer County Tourism
The Custer County Tourism Board works to promote our community as a premier destination for outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and mountain living.
Our Mission
The Tourism Board is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism that enhances the economic vitality of Custer County while preserving the natural beauty and authentic character of our mountain community.
The board works to:
- Market Custer County as a year-round destination for outdoor recreation
- Support local businesses through visitor promotion and economic development
- Coordinate with community partners on tourism initiatives and events
- Preserve and promote the county's natural and cultural heritage
- Provide visitor information and resources
Things to Do & See
Custer County offers diverse attractions and activities throughout the year.
Outdoor Recreation
Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, ATV trails, and wildlife viewing in pristine mountain wilderness.
Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Close proximity to downhill skiing at Monarch Mountain.
Fishing & Hunting
World-class fishing in mountain streams and lakes. Big game and upland bird hunting in diverse terrain.
Historic Sites
Silver Cliff, Westcliffe, and surrounding ghost towns showcase Colorado's mining heritage and western history.
Dark Skies
Exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. Unobstructed views of the Milky Way year-round.
Arts & Culture
Local galleries, artisan shops, community theater, museums, and seasonal festivals celebrating mountain heritage.
Visitor Information
Plan your visit to Custer County with these helpful resources.
Getting Here
Location: Custer County is located in south-central Colorado, approximately 45 miles southwest of Cañon City and 50 miles south of Salida.
Elevation: Westcliffe sits at 7,888 feet, with surrounding mountain peaks reaching over 14,000 feet.
Nearest Airports:
- Pueblo Memorial Airport (60 miles)
- Colorado Springs Airport (80 miles)
- Denver International Airport (140 miles)
Accommodations & Dining
Custer County offers a variety of lodging options including hotels, bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and RV parks.
Local restaurants feature home-style cooking, steaks, Mexican cuisine, and mountain fare. Check our Business Directory for current listings.
Visitor Resources
- Visitor Center: Located in downtown Westcliffe
- Chamber of Commerce: Information on local businesses and services
- Trail Maps: Available at local outdoor retailers and online
- Event Calendar: Check upcoming festivals, concerts, and community events
Contact the Tourism Board
Welcome Center Address:
107 N 3rd Street
Westcliffe, CO 81252
Direct Line:
719-480-7230
Debbie Adams, Chair
custertourism3@gmail.com
Karalin Alsdurf, Vice Chair
kalsdurf@gmail.com
Jackie Shepherd, Treasurer
jackie@wapitiranchrealty.com
Wade Pettis
wade@wapitiranchrealty.com
Bianca Trenker
coloradoearthscents@gmail.com
John Van Doren
seneca1411@gmail.com
John Mallett
jmallett72@hotmail.com
Rosanne Mallett
rmallet71@gmail.com
Debi Van Doren, Ex-Officio
debivandoren1@gmail.com
Lauren Austin, Ex-Officio
lauren@westcliffesuites.com
Visit Custer County
Elevation: 7,888 ft
Population: ~4,700
Climate: High-altitude semi-arid
Related Links
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Wildflowers, fishing
Summer: Hiking, camping, festivals
Fall: Aspen viewing, hunting
Winter: Skiing, snowmobiling