Each August, Rangely, Colorado, stirs from its quiet oil town rhythm to celebrate Pumpjack Days — a unique gathering forged around its century-old link to oil production, paired with spirited outdoor events and community camaraderie. This festival offers a blend of cultural heritage and small-town charm, with activities that draw both curious travelers and locals eager to honor the legacy of the pumpjack, the mechanical heartbeat of Rangely's economy. If your adventure compass points toward authentic local experience coupled with a touch of Colorado’s rugged outdoors, Pumpjack Days offers both.

Set against the backdrop of Rangely’s open skies and rugged landscape, the festival includes live music, a rodeo, parades, and artisan fairs. Moreover, outdoor enthusiasts find their pull in the surrounding high desert and sandstone formations. Hiking in these parts offers moderate trails with elevation gains averaging 300-600 feet and terrain mixing compact dirt paths with rocky outcrops. The nearby Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway lends itself to day hikes or short drives to vantage points where scenic panoramas stretch wide and demand a moment of pause.

Those on foot will notice how the dry air carries the scent of sagebrush, while the low junipers and piñon pines seem to beckon with a whisper, threading shadows along the trails. Trails are generally well-marked, though some routes near the riverbed require steady footing due to loose gravel and occasional washes. Aim for mornings when temperatures hover in the comfortable 60s to avoid midday heat and bring at least two liters of water per person.

Footwear with good traction is essential to tackle the uneven terrain comfortably — lightweight hiking boots or sturdy trail runners suffice. Timing your adventure around the festival ensures not only access to celebratory events but also a chance to join guided nature walks, learn about local wildlife, and absorb stories from residents about Rangely’s oilfield roots and pioneer spirit.

Pumpjack Days is an invitation to venture into a Colorado experience that balances tradition, landscape, and local pride. The land here stands fiercely itself — open, rugged, and patient — awaiting respectful exploration. Pack practical gear, tune into the rhythm of the environment, and prepare to engage with a festival and landscape that reward with straightforward, memorable adventure.