Overview
Ault is a small town of roughly 1,600 people situated on the high plains of Weld County in northeastern Colorado, about 15 miles east of Greeley. It sits at an elevation of approximately 4,800 feet on a largely flat agricultural landscape defined by dryland wheat farming, cattle ranching, and oil and gas operations.
Founded in the late 19th century as a railroad and agricultural community, Ault has retained its small-town character. Its main street reflects a working rural town rather than a tourist destination, which is part of its appeal for travelers seeking an honest look at everyday life on the Colorado plains.
Most visitors pass through Ault on the way to other destinations in northern Colorado or the Rocky Mountain foothills, but the town offers a genuine sense of place and convenient access to open landscapes and rural attractions in the surrounding region.
Getting There
By Car
Ault is straightforwardly accessible by road. US Highway 85 runs through town, connecting it to Greeley to the southwest and the Wyoming border to the north. From Fort Collins, the drive is roughly 30 miles via US-287 and local roads. From Denver, expect about 65–70 miles heading north on I-25 and then east.
By Air
The closest major commercial airport is Denver International Airport (DEN), approximately 75–80 miles to the south. The Northern Colorado Regional Airport in Loveland/Fort Collins handles some regional and charter traffic and is closer in distance. Car rental is the most practical option from either airport, as there is no scheduled transit service connecting airports to Ault.
By Bus
Scheduled intercity bus service does not directly serve Ault. Greeley has Greeley-Evans Transit (GET) for local service, but connections to Ault are limited. Verify current regional transit options locally before travel.
Getting Around
Ault is a compact town easily walkable in its central area. A personal vehicle is strongly recommended for any travel beyond the immediate town center, including visits to surrounding farmland, public lands, or nearby communities. There is no local public transit within Ault itself.
Roads in the area are primarily paved state and county highways, with some gravel county roads leading into more rural areas. Road conditions can deteriorate in winter, particularly on gravel surfaces, so check local conditions if traveling between November and March.
Where to Stay
There are no well-documented hotels or motels within Ault itself. Most travelers overnight in Greeley or Fort Collins, both of which have a full range of accommodations from budget motels to mid-range hotels. Some rural bed-and-breakfast or ranch stay options may exist in Weld County; verify availability and current operations locally or through regional tourism resources.
Camping is available at and near Pawnee National Grassland, which permits dispersed camping in certain areas. Check with the U.S. Forest Service for rules, designated sites, and any permit requirements before your visit.
Things to See & Do
Explore the Surrounding Plains
The wide-open landscape of Weld County is the primary draw for visitors interested in rural Colorado. The flat terrain offers clear views of the Rocky Mountain Front Range to the west — on clear days, peaks including Longs Peak are visible. Scenic drives along county roads provide a chance to observe working farms, grain elevators, and wildlife including pronghorn antelope and various raptors.
Pawnee National Grassland
Approximately 30–40 miles northeast of Ault, the Pawnee National Grassland is one of the most significant grassland habitats in the country. It attracts birdwatchers, particularly during spring migration, and offers hiking and wildlife viewing in a genuinely remote setting. Verify current access and road conditions with the U.S. Forest Service before visiting.
Local Community Events
Ault hosts modest community events tied to its agricultural identity, including seasonal celebrations and local gatherings. Check with the Town of Ault or Weld County for current event schedules, as programming changes year to year.
Day Trips
Ault's location makes it a reasonable base for day trips to Greeley (museums, dining, university campus), Fort Collins (historic downtown, breweries, Colorado State University), and Rocky Mountain National Park (roughly 60–70 miles west via US-34).
Food & Drink
Dining options within Ault itself are limited, consistent with its size. The town has a small number of local diners and convenience-style eateries serving straightforward American fare. For a broader range of restaurants, Greeley (approximately 15 miles west) offers significantly more choice, including regional cuisine, chain restaurants, and locally owned establishments.
Grocery and basic supplies are available in Ault; verify current store hours locally. Travelers with specific dietary requirements or preferences are advised to stock up in Greeley or Fort Collins before spending extended time in the area.
Practical Information
Visas and Entry
Ault is located in the United States. Entry requirements vary significantly depending on your nationality. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for current requirements relevant to your citizenship.
Money
Ault is a cash-and-card economy. ATMs and basic banking services are available in town; verify locations locally. Larger banking and ATM infrastructure is more readily available in Greeley.
Connectivity
Cell coverage in Ault itself is generally adequate for major US carriers, but coverage can become patchy or absent on rural county roads and within the Pawnee National Grassland. Download offline maps before venturing into more remote areas.
Weather
Northeastern Colorado has a semi-arid continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and relatively low annual precipitation. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Winds can be strong year-round on the open plains. Winter driving conditions can be hazardous; check road conditions through CDOT (cotrip.org) before traveling between November and March.
Safety
Ault is a quiet rural community with a low overall crime profile typical of small agricultural towns. Standard common-sense precautions apply.
Outdoor safety is the more relevant consideration for visitors. Summer afternoon thunderstorms on the plains can be severe and can include lightning, hail, and occasionally tornadoes. Monitor weather forecasts and seek shelter if storms develop. In winter, blizzard conditions can develop quickly, making rural roads hazardous or impassable. Always carry water and basic emergency supplies when exploring rural areas, as services are sparse.
For emergencies, dial 911. Weld County Sheriff provides law enforcement coverage for the region. Verify the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility before your visit, as the nearest significant medical facilities are in Greeley.
