Golden Colorado

Only 18 miles from Denver, Golden is home to the Colorado School of Mines, Coors Brewing Company, the National Renewable Energy Lab and the National Earthquake Information Center (who knew?), among others and many museums. But in summer, it is the place to go for gentle tubing down Clear Creek and an afternoon spent in its lovely downtown area and live theatre. We spent a short afternoon here, so the the photos below will only give you a light taste of Golden.

Fort Collins

Located in a what I would call a prairie - flat lands - Fort Collins has a semi-arid climate. This accounts for the fact that the trees throughout the area are much shorter than in Denver, and afford little shade. Located about an hour north of Denver, Fort Collins is known as the home of the main campus of Colorado State University and the selection of stores and restaurants in the downtown area reflects the younger population, although there’s plenty for all. The downtown area has been decorated with flower pots, hanging flowers and painted murals which stand out against the bright blue sky and make the area that much more visually appealing. What’s more, there are many local breweries in the area. There is a really great Colorado Tourism Office just off I25 en route to downtown FC that is worthy of a stop. On the basis of their recommendation, we headed out to assess the reservoir that provides drinking water to the city. It was much much larger than I would have imagined, sitting on top of a range of low level mountains, and it was being actively used for boating and swimming. It was a sight to behold. Fort Collins is charming and delightful and worth a visit.

Boulder

Home to hikers and bikers of all ages but only one fitness level - VERY! - Boulder is a sweet and totally unaffordable small town not far from Denver. Everyone walking around in the downtown area appeared to be ready to head out for or have just returned from a major hike or bike ride. Spandex shorts and light tee shirts are “de rigeur” and never have I ever seen so many sports clothes stores located in such a small area. Frankly, it was intimidating, but understandable. Boulder is located in an area of Colorado where the Rockies meet the Great Plains; one look around and you want to pop on your sneakers (or hiking boots) and head for the hills. A progressive city, one that adopted a policy of controlled urban expansion, Boulder real estate prices reflect the limited availability of housing. You need to be rich to live there. The entire area is full of tall trees and lush green spaces which adds a richness to the town. The downtown area is chock full of interesting, mostly non-chain, stores and restaurants and makes for an interesting afternoon stroll. As is the case in much of Colorado, everything you look at is lovely. There are many hikes not far from the center of the city which will provide an excellent cardio work-out and perfectly splendid views. I love Boulder. I won’t be moving there.