Introduction to Greeley, Colorado
Greeley is located in Weld County and is 49 miles away from the city of Denver. The Cache la Poudre River runs through the northern portion of Greeley. The city is situated in an arid region, however back in 1980 the town was given the Tree City USA designation from the National Arbor Day Foundation. The vast irrigation system is the primary factor for the large number of trees. Greeley has been a primary center for agriculture in Northern Colorado. Residents and visitors enjoy the well known Greeley Independence Stampede.
History
The city is situated on the former location of the Overland Trail station of Latham, which was constructed in 1862. It was given the name in tribute to Milton S. Latham, a former senator from the state of California. Due to being situated at the convergence of the South Platte River and the Cache la Poudre River it was one of the most prominent and active stations for the Overland Trail. The city was established as the "Union Colony." It was created by Nathan C. Meeker, a newspaper reporter formerly located in New York City. The town was an utopian experiment which was supposed to be guided by high moral standards. It was renamed Greeley as a tribute to Horace Greeley who had served as Meeker's editor while he was writing for the New York Tribune. Greeley is known for making the phrase "Go West Young Man" famous.
Events
The Greeley Independence Stampede is the one of the most prominent festivals in Colorado. Visitors arrive from all over the country to attend the event. The festival features a notable rodeo, country and classic rock music, fireworks, a carnival and other forms of entertainment. There are numerous other events in the area including:
- Festival of Trees
- Greeley Lights the Nights
- Greeley Fiesta
- Greeley Blues Fest
- Centennial Village contains numerous structures showcasing the architecture and the way of life in the northern portion of Colorado from 1860 to 1920
- Fort Vasquez Museum is an historic adobe fort
- Anheuser-Busch Brewery & Clydesdale Barn
- Bison Herd and Ranch is open to visitors
- Gateway Park
- Big Thompson Canyon
- Thunderbird Art Gallery
- Union Colony Civic Center
- The Weld County Fair is popular with residents and tourists
Activities
The region provides numerous locations for fishing such as Seeley Lake, Glenmere Park and Riverside Park. Hiking and bicycle riding opportunities can be found at the Poudre River Trail Corridor. The Colorado Cattle Company & Guest Ranch offers visitors the chance to live on a active cattle ranch. Riding lessons, performing cattle work, fishing, roping lessons and other activities are offered.
Higher Education
The University of Northern Colorado and Aims Community College are located in Greeley.