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The Full Story
Cleora, CO
Established in the summer of 1878 by William Bale, Cleora was anticipated to be the next railroad town and supply center for the mining district at the head of the South Arkansas River. This was due to two railroads (Denver & Rio Grande/ Atchinson, Topeka & Santa Fe) converging in Cañon City and the Monarch Mine that showed promise of having similar silver deposits to those found in Leadville a few years prior.
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The two railroads battled with one another, culminating into the Royal Gorge War in 1880. The Rio Grande ultimately won this war and decided the railroad would be more profitable building its own town on land it controlled upriver, thus becoming Salida. Many residents of Cleora relocated to Salida, even bringing their homes along on rollers, essentially abandoning the short-lived town.​
Bales Stagecoach Station - Original Town Site of Cleroa, CO
A New Start
​Now, 144 years later, we revisit the past and breathe new life into Cleora, a town victim to circumstance. No longer reliant on the rails, Cleora has enormous potential to be the next extension of Salida, boasting an idyllic location along the Arkansas River with the stunning Collegiate Peaks as a backdrop.
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The story of Cleora continues with you. A new start. A fresh slate. Join us in creating a lasting community focused on natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a sustainable future.