The Largest Counties In Colorado By Area And Population
Colorado is known for its rugged Rocky Mountains, ski resort towns and diverse landscapes ranging from red rock canyons to high plains. The Centennial State has 64 counties of varying sizes and populations. If you’re wondering which are Colorado’s biggest counties, here’s a quick answer: The largest county by land area is Las Animas County at 4,772 square miles. The largest by population is Denver County with over 700,000 residents.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Colorado’s largest counties by total area and by population. We will look at key facts and figures for each county as well as some of the main cities and attractions found within their borders. By the end, you will have a detailed overview of the biggest counties that make up the great state of Colorado.
Measuring County Size in Colorado
When it comes to determining the largest counties in Colorado, two key factors are taken into consideration: total land area and population. These metrics provide valuable insights into the size and density of each county in the state.
Let’s explore how these factors contribute to measuring county size in Colorado.
Total Land Area
The total land area of a county is an important factor in determining its size. In Colorado, the largest county in terms of land area is Las Animas County, which spans over 4,773 square miles. It is followed closely by Moffat County, with an area of 4,742 square miles.
These expansive counties boast vast stretches of land, encompassing a diverse range of geographical features including mountains, forests, and plains.
It’s worth noting that Colorado is home to several other counties with substantial land areas. For example, Rio Grande County covers 912 square miles, while Archuleta County spans 1,356 square miles. These counties contribute to the overall size and geographic diversity of the state.
Population
While land area provides insight into the physical size of a county, population is another crucial factor in measuring its size. In terms of population, the largest county in Colorado is El Paso County, with over 720,000 residents.
This county is home to the city of Colorado Springs, which contributes significantly to its population.
Following closely behind El Paso County is Denver County, with a population of over 700,000. As the capital of Colorado, Denver is a bustling metropolitan area that attracts residents from across the state and beyond.
Its vibrant culture, thriving economy, and diverse population make it one of the most populous counties in Colorado.
Other counties with significant populations include Arapahoe County, Adams County, and Jefferson County, each with populations exceeding 600,000. These counties are located in close proximity to Denver and contribute to the overall growth and development of the state.
It’s important to note that population figures can change over time due to factors such as migration, birth rates, and economic conditions. Therefore, the rankings of counties by population may vary slightly from year to year.
The 10 Largest Counties in Colorado by Land Area
Las Animas County
Las Animas County is one of the largest counties in Colorado by land area. Located in the southeastern part of the state, it covers an expansive area of over 4,749 square miles. The county is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and plains.
With its rich history and natural beauty, Las Animas County is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Huerfano County
Huerfano County is another large county in Colorado, spanning approximately 1,593 square miles. Nestled in the southern part of the state, this county is home to stunning natural attractions such as the Spanish Peaks and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Huerfano County offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Mesa County
Mesa County is renowned for its vast land area, covering around 3,341 square miles. Located in western Colorado, this county is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa, which is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world.
Mesa County offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and river rafting, attracting visitors from near and far.
Moffat County
Moffat County is one of the largest counties in Colorado, encompassing approximately 4,751 square miles. Situated in the northwestern part of the state, this county is characterized by its rugged terrain and vast open spaces.
Moffat County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hunting, fishing, and exploring its stunning natural beauty. The county is also home to Dinosaur National Monument, which preserves an extensive fossil record.
Rio Blanco County
Rio Blanco County is a sizable county in Colorado, covering an area of around 3,223 square miles. Located in the northwestern part of the state, this county is known for its stunning landscapes, including the White River and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area.
Rio Blanco County offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, and hunting. With its natural beauty and abundance of wildlife, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Kit Carson County
Kit Carson County is one of the largest counties in Colorado, spanning approximately 2,162 square miles. Situated in the eastern part of the state, this county is known for its agricultural heritage and wide-open spaces.
Kit Carson County offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, birdwatching, and exploring its historic sites. The county is also home to the Kit Carson Museum, which showcases the life and legacy of the famous frontiersman.
Dolores County
Dolores County is a sizable county in Colorado, covering an area of approximately 1,076 square miles. Located in the southwestern part of the state, this county is known for its stunning mountain vistas and scenic drives.
Dolores County offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The county is also home to the San Juan National Forest, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Montrose County
Montrose County is another large county in Colorado, spanning approximately 2,241 square miles. Situated in the western part of the state, this county is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, plateaus, and canyons.
Montrose County offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The county is also home to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder.
Jackson County
Jackson County is one of the largest counties in Colorado, covering an area of around 1,617 square miles. Located in the north-central part of the state, this county is known for its pristine wilderness areas and stunning alpine scenery.
Jackson County offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The county is also home to the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge, which provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species.
Routt County
Routt County is a sizable county in Colorado, encompassing approximately 2,368 square miles. Situated in the northwestern part of the state, this county is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains and the Yampa River.
Routt County offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, such as skiing, hiking, and hot air ballooning. The county is also home to Steamboat Springs, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The 10 Most Populous Counties in Colorado
Colorado is home to several counties, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions. Among these counties, some stand out for their large population size. Here are the 10 most populous counties in Colorado:
Denver County
Denver County, also known as the City and County of Denver, takes the top spot as the most populous county in Colorado. With a population of over 700,000 residents, Denver County is not only the largest county in terms of population but also in terms of area.
It is the heart of the Denver metropolitan area and serves as the state’s capital.
El Paso County
El Paso County is the second most populous county in Colorado. Located in the eastern part of the state, it is home to over 700,000 residents. The county is known for its natural beauty, including stunning mountain views and diverse wildlife.
It is also home to the city of Colorado Springs, a popular tourist destination.
Arapahoe County
Arapahoe County is the third most populous county in Colorado, with a population of over 600,000 residents. Located in the central part of the state, it is known for its vibrant community and diverse cultural attractions.
The county offers a mix of urban and suburban areas, making it an attractive place to live for families and professionals.
Jefferson County
Jefferson County, with a population of over 500,000 residents, is the fourth most populous county in Colorado. Located in the western part of the Denver metropolitan area, it offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes.
The county is known for its beautiful parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Adams County
Adams County, located in the northeastern part of the state, is the fifth most populous county in Colorado. With a population of over 500,000 residents, it is a thriving community with a strong economy.
The county is known for its diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and abundant recreational activities.
Boulder County
Boulder County, with a population of over 300,000 residents, is the sixth most populous county in Colorado. Located in the northern part of the state, it is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The county is home to the city of Boulder, which is renowned for its progressive culture and vibrant arts scene.
Larimer County
Larimer County, located in northern Colorado, is the seventh most populous county in the state. With a population of over 300,000 residents, it offers a mix of urban and rural areas. The county is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including Rocky Mountain National Park, which attracts millions of visitors each year.
Douglas County
Douglas County, located in the central part of the state, is the eighth most populous county in Colorado. With a population of over 300,000 residents, it has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The county is known for its excellent schools, high quality of life, and strong sense of community.
Weld County
Weld County, located in northeastern Colorado, is the ninth most populous county in the state. With a population of over 300,000 residents, it is known for its agricultural heritage and strong economy. The county is home to several vibrant communities and offers a range of recreational activities.
Pueblo County
Pueblo County, located in southern Colorado, is the tenth most populous county in the state. With a population of over 150,000 residents, it is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The county is home to the city of Pueblo, which offers a mix of historical landmarks, art galleries, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Conclusion
Colorado contains a diverse mix of sparsely populated rural counties alongside some fast-growing urban centers along the Front Range. While Denver County tops the list for population, sprawling counties like Las Animas dominate the eastern plains by total land area.
Knowing the largest counties by size and population provides helpful perspective on the different regions and dynamics at play across the state. Whether your interests lie within the bustling cities or wide open spaces, Colorado’s counties have something unique to offer residents and visitors alike.
