Crestone

Crestone is a Statutory Town in Saguache County, Colorado. According to the 2020 United States Census, the town's population was 141.Crestone is located at the foot of the western slope of the Sangre de Cristo Range, in the northern part of the San Luis Valley. Crestone was platted in 1880 by George Adams

History

Crestone, Colorado, has a rich and diverse history. Originally part of the Luis Maria Baca Grant No. 4, the area was granted to the Baca family in 1860. The town itself was established in 1880 following minor gold discoveries. Crestone’s identity shifted dramatically in the 1970s when Maurice and Hanne Strong, inspired by the land’s unique spiritual qualities, began transforming it into a spiritual center. Today, Crestone is known for its numerous spiritual retreat centers and sacred landmarks, making it a unique hub for various religious and spiritual practices.

Geography

Crestone is located at 37° 59′ 40.19″ N, 105° 41′ 46.58″ W in the San Luis Valley in south-central Colorado. It is platted on a quarter section of land, or 160 acres, on the alluvial fan of North Crestone Creek. Much of the land near the creek where the main part of the city sits, is well watered in normal times, but during a prolonged drought the creek may dry up and underground water levels may fall. At the 2020 United States Census, the town had a total area of 246 acres, all of it land.

Comment

Crestone has a vibe, somewhat strange, somewhat charming, and somewhat reminisent of dueling banjos.