Overview of Howard, CO

Nestled in the Pleasant Valley between Salida and Cañon City along Highway 50, Howard, Colorado, is a hidden gem of the Arkansas River Valley. It is a community defined by the winding ribbon of the **Arkansas River** and the towering, jagged peaks of the **Sangre de Cristo Mountains** that rise abruptly to the west. Howard offers a quieter, warmer, and more pastoral alternative to the bustling recreation hubs nearby. It is a place where the hay fields are lush, the river is world-class, and the pace of life is dictated by the flow of water and the changing seasons.

Howard appeals to the buyer who wants the "Sweet Spot" of Colorado living. It is the destination for those who want dramatic mountain views without the deep snow of the high alpine towns. The real estate market is highly desirable, featuring riverfront estates with private fishing access, productive hay farms, and secluded cabins tucked into the pinyon-juniper hills. It is a community for anglers, retirees, and horse lovers who want to live in a postcard setting that stays green longer than anywhere else in the region.

The Equestrian & River Valley Lifestyle

In Howard, the equestrian lifestyle is serene and scenic. The valley floor offers flat, irrigated land that is perfect for grazing and hay production, allowing horse owners to be self-sufficient. "Horse property" here often comes with ditches and water rights, a gold standard in the West. Unlike the rocky terrain of higher elevations, the soil in the valley is often softer and more forgiving, making it excellent for older horses or pleasure riding.

The riding experience is a mix of agricultural lanes and mountain adventure. Riders can explore the **Bureau of Land Management (BLM)** lands that border the valley or head up into the **San Isabel National Forest** for steeper challenges. The **Rainbow Trail**, which runs along the base of the Sangres, is a legendary route accessible from nearby trailheads, offering miles of traversing with views that are hard to match. In Howard, you can ride in the morning and fly fish the Gold Medal waters of the Arkansas River in the evening—all from your own backyard.

Landscape, Climate, and Community

Sitting at an elevation of roughly 6,700 feet, Howard sits firmly in a local "Banana Belt." The orientation of the valley and the protection of the mountains create a microclimate that is significantly warmer and drier than Salida or Westcliffe. Winters are mild, with snow often melting within days, while summers are warm but cooled by the river breeze. The landscape is a stunning contrast of the lush green river corridor against the red soil of the foothills and the white-capped peaks above.

The community is unincorporated, spread out, and neighborly. There is no traditional "downtown," but the local volunteer fire department, the community hall, and the general store serve as gathering points. Residents here share a love for the quiet life; they are the people who wave at every car on the dirt roads. It is a place where privacy is respected, but help is always available, fostering a strong sense of security and belonging.

Why Buy a Horse Property in Howard?

Buying real estate in Howard is an investment in climate and scenery. It offers the rare opportunity to own property with both live water and dramatic mountain views for a price that is competitive with the rest of the state. If you are looking for a property where you can ride year-round, grow your own hay, and live in one of the most climatically pleasant valleys in the Rockies, Howard is your riverfront sanctuary.