Gypsum, Colorado | Eagle County (original) (raw)
View of Gypsum, CO from the hills.
Named for the local gypsum deposits, Gypsum is a small Colorado home-rule municipality. It’s located just west of Eagle and east of Glenwood Springs, right on the banks of Eagle River.
In 2020 the town recorded a population of 8,040 residents, an increase from the last census. It’s home to the American Gypsum drywall plant and mine as well as a small commercial airport. Situated at 6,312 feet of elevation in Eagle County, Gypsum was incorporated in 1911.
Main Attractions
Plane landing on a snowy day at the Eagle County Regional Airport in Gypsum, CO. Photo by: Bryce Bradford
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) – The second busiest airport in Colorado during a peak winter day, EGE is located right in Gypsum. It offers year-round flights to and from Denver International Airport (DEN) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).
Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Area – Covering over 90 acres of marshland and ponds near the Eagle River, this SWA is a wonderful spot for some outdoor recreation. With a valid fishing or hunting license, visitors can fish the ponds for trout, hunt for waterfowl, or do some birdwatching on a nice day.
Recreation
Aerial view just north of Gypsum, CO. Photo by: stevbach1
Camping –
- Gypsum Campground is right off of I-70 with cheap campsites that can accommodate RVs or tents. The sites are a bit noisy from the freeway, but are also right on the banks of Eagle River and have great views of the sunset.
- Read about the camping near Vail, Eagle and Gypsum.
Fishing – Eagle River runs right in town and has great fishing year-round. Most of the year fishing can only be done from shore, but there is a short raft season during the summer. Fly fishing is your best bet for catching anything.
Golfing – Gypsum Creek Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course owned by the city. There are golf lessons and leagues, a pro shop, and an on-site restaurant to refuel after you play.
Hiking –
- Gypsum Ponds SWA has hiking trails throughout that are peaceful to explore. Visitors must have a valid hunting or fishing license to use the trails.
- Duck Pond Open Space covers 55 acres and over 4,000 feet of shoreline on the river. Find some shade from the tree groves as you wander along the Eagle Valley Trail.
- Sylvan Lake State Park is tucked within the White River National Forest with 7 miles of designated trails and easy access to even more within the forest. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Gypsum, but definitely worth it if you’re looking for a serene place to visit.
Special Events
Gypsum Daze parade. Photo by: facebook.com/townofgypsum
Jul – Independence Day Celebration – Wouldn’t be small-town America without a good ol’ 4th of July festival. Head to the Lundgren Amphitheater for a drone show, free hot dogs, and lawn games.
Jul – Gypsum Daze – This exciting community event celebrates the rural mountain heritage of Gypsum. The schedule is jam-packed with interesting activities for all including a jalapeno eating contest, a classic car show, a parade and 5k race, concerts, and even a talent show!
Oct – Gyptober Fall Fest – A combination of Oktoberfest and Halloween, Gyptober has a family-friendly lineup of fun. Stein and cider-holding contests, pumpkin decorating, and the great pumpkin race are just a few of the usual festivities.
Dec – Home for the Holidays – Join your neighbors to get in the holiday spirit with this heartwarming afternoon event. There will be reindeer, visits with Santa, and toasty snacks and drinks to warm up. If you’re feeling creative, participate in the gingerbread decorating contest.
Dec – New Year’s Fireworks – The recreation center helps Gypsum ring in the new year with a variety of indoor crafts and treats to start the night. Cozy up outside and roast a few marshmallows while you watch the 6 pm fireworks show light up the town.
American Gypsum’s mine in Gypsum from the haul road looking east.
There are no notable accommodation options in Gypsum but head a short drive east for plenty of hotels in Eagle.
Activities near Gypsum
Federal Lands:
Towns:
- Avon (28mi)
- Beaver Creek (30mi)
- Dotsero (6mi)
- Eagle (7mi)
- Eagle-Vail (24mi)
- Glenwood Springs (24mi)
- Minturn (34mi)
- Red Cliff (42mi)
- Rifle (51mi)
- Vail (37mi)
- Wolcott (17mi)
Transportation: