Gateway to the Canyons
Elevation 4,953 ft.
Population 6,954
The City of Delta, the namesake and seat of Delta County, was originally set up as a trading post for Ute Indians and the new settlers from the east. Delta is
Delta County is home to spectacular mountain and desert scenery, giving you plenty to explore.
situated where the Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers come together. While in Delta, be sure to stop at Fort Uncompahgre, a reconstruction of the original trading post used by traders, trappers and Native Americans. The Delta County Historical Museum, housed in the old firehouse, is a must see for the history buff and the inner science buff in all of us – fossils, dinosaur bones, and a butterfly exhibit which includes some of the only–known specimens of now extinct species are on-hand to quench the learning thirst. Take some time to visit the “City of Murals” and hike in the newly designated Dominquez / Escalante National Conservation Areas. You will discover lots of wall art in Delta, murals on the walls of the city’s buildings and rock art on the walls of its canyons.
Many buildings in Delta are on the local historic register and state register. Enjoy an historic property or one of the many other bed & breakfasts, motels, camping, lodges and cabins. For a complete list visit our City of Delta Lodging page.
Attractions
The City of Delta, a surprising jewel in the high desert, sets in a valley surrounded by canyons, rivers and mountains. Known as the City of Murals, Delta demonstrates a strong love for public art with numerous murals, sculptures and floral displays all along the Main Street and throughout town.
History
Fort Uncompahgre
Spinning demonstration at Fort Uncompahgre. Many of the interpreters will showcase arts and skills needed to live in the west.
Originally set up as a trading post for Utes and whites, the town is strategically located at the confluence of the Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers.
Ft. Uncompahgre is a reconstruction of the original trading post used by traders, trappers and native Americans. Antoine Robidoux built the original fort in 1828 where it lasted for 18 years. Then in 1989 The City of Delta recreated the fort, as close to the original as possible, about a 1.5 miles upriver to what is now modern day Delta.
The Delta County Historical Museum will reward not only the history buff, but natural history buffs as well – fossil, dinosaur bones, and a butterfly exhibit which includes some of the only-known specimens of now extinct species.
Many buildings in Delta are on the local historic register and state register. The Fairlamb House Bed and Breakfast houses fascinating history of Delta, and Westways Court is another historic property complete with authentic neon sign.
Recreation
Devil’s Thumb Golf Club
An oasis in this desert is the Devil’s Thumb Golf Course located only a few miles from the main intersection of town. Devil’s Thumb Golf Course was rated by Golf Digest as one of the best and most affordable in the US. In 2017 the Course was rated number three in Colorado, by Avid Golfer, for a public or resort course.
This 18-hole course is tucked on the rolling hillside beneath the Grand Mesa and presents views of three different mountain ranges plus a glimpse of the Black Canyon! There are multiple options for shot execution on every hole. Some are obvious, while others are quite subtle.
Bill Heddles Recreation Center
Racquetball, Olympic sized swimming pool, therapy pool, weight training, aerobics, tennis and more draw the energetic to Bill Heddles Recreation Center — a truly surprising facility in this small rural community!
Confluence Park
This 265 acre riparian oasis, features foot and bike trails, swim area, picnic sites, stocked fishing lakes, river access, restrooms and fitness course. Confluence Park- Delta.
Image courtesy of City of Delta
Confluence Lake provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Disc Golf, birding, biking, SUPs, fishing, running, boating.
Sweitzer Lake State Park
This lake-based retreat for the Western Slope provides nature, picnic and water recreation. Visitors come to Sweitzer Lake for action-packed boating and waterskiing on busy days, and relaxed nature play on mellow days. In the distance, the majestic San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre Plateau and Grand Mesa — the largest flattop mountain in the world — surround Sweitzer Lake. Visitors should be aware that Sweitzer is a day-use area only, with no overnight camping. Sweitzer Lake State Park
Photo Courtesy Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Annual Events
Western Sky Balloon Festival
Experience the magic of the Annual Western Sky Balloon Festival in Delta, Colorado, in early July. This premier Independence Day celebration at Confluence Park features breathtaking morning hot air balloon ascensions, enchanting evening glows, and a cutting-edge drone light show. Throughout the weekend, families can enjoy a vibrant mix of live music, a Main Street parade, a talent show, and a “Vendor Village” craft fair. With activities ranging from mud volleyball and foam parties to a grand fireworks finale by the Delta Volunteer Fire Department, there is something for everyone at this free community event. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to join in a weekend of soaring spirits and patriotic fun under the Western Colorado sky! 4th of July Western Sky Balloon Festival
Delta Historic Mural Tour
Delta Colorado is the City of Murals. There are over 20 unique creations gracing the exteriors of buildings in the Delta Downtown Area. To help both residents and visitors find their way to all these beautiful works of art, the City of Delta has developed a Mural Virtual Tour App that is now available and free to use. Click the link below to explore some of Delta’s amazing public art.
The sculptures you will find have various themes. Antoine Robidoux and the Ute Indians is our most famous sculpture and can be found off of Highway 50 near McDonald’s and City Market. The Performing Arts Center is our concert hall and has various performances throughout the year. From plays to music and dance our Performing Arts Center is a great place to experience the arts.
More Information
Delta Area Chamber of Commerce
124 6th Street
Delta, CO 81416
970-874-8616
Delta Parks and Recreation
Phone: 970-874-0923
531 North Palmer Street
Delta, CO 81416
