Situated in the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains, North Park is home to abundant wildlife, snow-capped peaks, vast water resources and a landscape that remains relatively unchanged throughout the years. North Park is located high in the north central mountains of Colorado at roughly 8,800 feet and is surrounded by several mountain ranges including the Medicine Bow Mountains and Never Summer Mountains to the east, Rabbit Ears Range to the South, Park Range to the West and a wide basin opening to Wyoming on the north. Several trophy fishing rivers grace North Park including the North Platte River, Michigan River, Canadian River and Illinois River. North Park's population of 1,600 only slightly outnumbers the more than 1,000 moose that roam freely throughout the Park. While summers are often pristine and sun-soaked, winters can be long and difficult.
Called the "Bull Pen" by the Ute Indians, North Park was once home to a large and prosperous buffalo herd that grazed throughout the lush valley floor. The Park's wildlife is still abundant and includes: moose, elk, deer, bear, antelope, mountain lion, big horn sheep, beaver, eagle and a wide array of migrating birds.
Remnants of North Park's past can still be seen today. Fossilized shark teeth can be found in the area from when the Park was a shallow sea in Triassic time. Recently discovered ridge-top game drives used to capture bison and antelope date back to over 10,000 years ago. Arrowheads can still be found that were left behind by the Ute and Arapaho Indians. Stagecoach ruts can still be seen leading to Teller City - home to North Park's short-lived silver rush in the 1880's.
Today, North Park is still strongly rooted in ranching and home to several of Colorado's premier cattle operations. Tourism is also a leading industry with many people visiting North Park to experience its rich history and abundant beauty.