Paradox, CO

Paradox is a small town located in Routt County, Colorado. The population of Paradox was 2,527 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Routt County.

The first Europeans to visit Paradox were members of the 1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. They named the place " Paradox" after a puzzling incident on their journey when they came across a group of Native Americans who refused to move from their village site despite repeated orders from Meriwether Lewis.

In 1859, gold was discovered in the area and mining began immediately. The town grew rapidly as miners rushed to claim their share of the riches. By 1879, there were more than 1,000 people living in Paradox. However, by 1900, mining had ceased and most of the town's residents had left for other opportunities.

Today, Paradox is a small town with a strong agricultural economy based largely on cattle ranching and agriculture (particularly hay production). There are also several small businesses that provide services to residents and tourists in the area. Tourism has become an important part of Paradox's economy in recent years as visitors come to see some of Routt County's unique historical sites, including Fort Collins (the home of Colorado State University) and Horsetooth Reservoir (the largest reservoir east of the Rocky Mountains).