Cemetery Features

The Valley Rico Cemetery serves as a beautiful and rustic natural tribute to the people who built and sustained the historic town of Rico, Colorado. Located just south of town, the cemetery spans both sides of Highway 145, reflecting the deep roots and widespread nature of Rico’s history.

For visitors, the cemetery offers two distinct points of access:

• The East Entrance is marked by a distinctive metal gate.

• The West Entrance has no fence or gate, providing open access, and this side is notably home to the standing American flag, honoring those interred here.

The volunteers of the Valley Rico Cemetery Association diligently maintain this unique landscape, which preserves both historical integrity and natural beauty.

To help guide your experience, here are the key features and areas of the cemetery:

Throughout the rustic grounds of the Valley Rico Cemetery, you will find sturdy and welcoming Memorial Benches. These benches are heartfelt tributes, generously donated and erected by families or community groups wishing to honor their loved ones and contribute to the visitor experience. Each bench offers a quiet, peaceful vantage point for reflection, remembrance, and contemplation of the surrounding natural beauty and history. They represent a lasting commitment by the community to ensure the cemetery remains a comfortable and accessible sanctuary.

Finding a specific plot in our natural and sprawling cemetery is made possible by our precise Navigational Markers. These markers correspond directly to the official cemetery map, identifying the corner of each individual plot by its number. The primary markers are small silver disks placed low to the ground. Recognizing the challenge this can present, the Cemetery Association has also strategically placed several colorful crystal markers that are slightly taller. These crystals help visitors quickly locate the silver disks and pinpoint the exact location of a loved one’s final resting place.

The cemetery grounds are enhanced by unique Metal Sculptures, crafted by a dedicated local artist. These striking pieces integrate seamlessly with the natural setting, often incorporating found metal pieces that echo Rico’s mining and industrial heritage. The artistry is complemented by delicate, hand-created metal enameled flowers, adding permanent, vibrant color to the landscape, regardless of the season. These sculptures stand as a beautiful testament to local creativity and the enduring spirit of the town.