TodayThu, Sep 3
This weekSep 3 – Sep 9
The week in Paonia
Events within about 40 miles, one day at a time.
WeekendSep 4 – Sep 6
LocalNews and official
Paonia news and official notices
Out hereWithin 40 mi
In townBusinesses
SportsTeams
AboutThe town
About Paonia
About Paonia
Paonia has about 1,500 residents and a reputation as Colorado's organic farming capital. Sustainable agriculture and environmental consciousness run through the place, and so do a set of progressive politics you would not necessarily predict for a farm town this size on the Western Slope.
The North Fork Valley gives the area the conditions organic growing needs, and the farms and orchards here turn out fruit, vegetables, and wine. That commitment shows up at the farmers markets, on the farm-to-table menus in town, and at the agricultural festivals that run through the season.
The West Elk Wilderness is close by for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, and the Gunnison River covers fishing and water recreation. Paonia sits at the base of the Grand Mesa, so the alpine lakes and high country up top are within reach, and the desert ground around the valley makes for its own hiking and photography.
The historic downtown district has shops and restaurants in older buildings that carry the area's heritage, and Paonia State Park nearby handles camping and recreation. Keeping the rural character and the natural resources around it intact has taken deliberate effort from the town.
Paonia keeps drawing people interested in the farming and the recreation both, and the mountain setting behind the valley is part of what holds them there.
- Population
- 1,500
- Elevation
- 5,600 ft
- Best time
- Spring & Fall
- Known for
- Organic Farming
What is Paonia known for?
Paonia, up in the North Fork Valley on the Western Slope, has built a reputation around organic farming. The valley is full of small farms, orchards, and a few wineries, and the town leans noticeably toward sustainable agriculture. It has a more progressive bent than you might expect for its size.
Can you visit the farms and orchards around Paonia?
Yes. The area produces fruit, vegetables, and wine, and a lot of it shows up at farmers markets and on local farm-to-table menus. There are agricultural festivals through the season tied to what's coming off the farms. If you care about where your food comes from, this is good country for it.
What outdoor activities are near Paonia?
The West Elk Wilderness is right there, and the Gunnison River runs through the area, so fishing and hiking are easy to find. Trails head out in several directions from the valley. It stays quieter than the bigger mountain-town destinations, which some people prefer.
What's the town of Paonia itself like?
Paonia has a small historic downtown with shops and restaurants, and Paonia State Park sits nearby. The character of the place comes from its farming history and the independent streak that runs through the valley. It's compact and easy to take in on foot.
How do I get to Paonia?
Take Highway 133 to reach Paonia. It's about an hour south of Grand Junction and roughly four hours west of Denver, so plan on driving. The route up the North Fork Valley is part of the appeal.
NearbyNeighbors
