POPULATION: 1,473 ELEVATION: 5,682 DISTANCE FROM DENVER: 228 miles / 5 hours
In Paonia, things happen on the honor system. Road-side fruit stands and local bakeries place their goods in unattended baskets, trusting their neighbors to leave fair exchange. It’s a reflection of the deep-rooted compassion that underpins this close-knit farming and fine arts community. It’s a strange mash-up, but it works here. Strolling through the artist galleries on the main street, you are sure to know all the locals, and never come across a stoplight. “I don’t think I’ve been to a stoplight since Christmas,” shares local gallery manager Morgan
