Understand

The Uncompahgre Valley, once home to the Ute nation, holds a tumultuous history. In the late 1870s, the shiny allure of gold and silver in the neighboring San Juan Mountains enticed settlers, causing tensions with the Utes to boil over. The Meeker Massacre of 1879 marked a breaking point in the Utes' struggle against the government's insistence on abandoning their nomadic ways. The Utes fought back, but their initial triumph was short-lived as they were forcibly relocated to Utah and Southwestern Colorado. Located near Cortez, this region carries the echoes of a fierce battle for land and freedom. Shortly after the Meeker Massacre, a brave group of mineral speculators from Lake City ventured into the untamed North Fork area. Led by the renowned Enos Throop Hotchkiss, who had discovered the famous Golden Fleece mine, these pioneers cunningly scouted the valley and selected promising homesteads while the Utes still held possession. Hotchkiss, although passing away just months before the town's incorporation in 1900, had laid the foundation for a thriving community. Today, Hotchkiss is a picturesque town with a charming row of 19th and early 20th century storefronts, reminiscent of a bygone era. Its economy flourishes through land development, coal mining, and agriculture. The rich soil yields bountiful harvests of peaches, apples, cherries, and even grapes. In fact, the area's vineyards have lured grape growers from Grand Junction and Palisade, resulting in the formation of the prestigious West Elks American Viticultural Area (AVA). Nestled in the West Elk Mountains, this AVA boasts the highest vineyards in North America and proudly produces exceptional Colorado wines. Hotchkiss is also known for its vibrant community events. The town hosts the Delta County Fair, a thrilling rodeo, and the sensational Farm to Fiddle Festival, held every August. Situated just 9 miles from Paonia, famous for its Cherry Days Festival, and with easy access to Crawford and Delta, Hotchkiss is an ideal destination to experience the beauty and bounty of Colorado.

Get in

For aviation enthusiasts or travelers looking to fly in or out of Delta, Colorado, there are two airports worth considering. First, there is Blake Field, located at 870 1575 Rd, Delta, CO 81416. This airport offers full airplane services and is equipped with 100ll avgas and jet fuel. Whether you need self-serve options available 24/7 or prefer full-serve during business hours, Blake Field has you covered. You can reach them at 970-874-5181. Another option is Montrose Regional Airport (IATA: MTJ) situated at 2100 Airport Road. This airport provides regional service from Denver, making it a popular choice, especially during ski season. Montrose Regional Airport offers various amenities such as a cafe, vending machines, restrooms, and car rentals. To contact the airport, dial +1-970-249-3203, and fax inquiries can be sent to +1-970-249-2808. If Delta or Montrose are not your desired destinations, rest assured that Denver and Grand Junction also boast their own airports. Denver International Airport (IATA: DEN, ICAO: KDEN), known as DIA, is a major hub with multiple airlines maintaining their presence. Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines all have hubs at Concourses A, B, and C, respectively. Additionally, Grand Junction Regional Airport (IATA: GJT, ICAO: KGJT), also known as Walker Field, offers nonstop service to some major cities like Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, and Las Vegas. It is served by six airlines, making it a convenient choice for travelers in the area.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing