The United States is often criticized for not having a distinct culture of its own, but college towns across the country might be the exception. Throughout the history of the U.S., universities have served as incubators for new ideas and springboards for counter-culture movements. Whether you’re an American citizen looking to discover gems outside your hometown or an international traveler visiting this massive country for the very first time, you should definitely plan on visiting some college towns. Boulder, Colorado, is one of the best.
The city of Boulder is nestled within the foothills of the Rockies, at the point where the Great Plains collide with the majestic mountains. From all around town, you can see views of the stunning peaks in the distance. It’s home to the University of Colorado Boulder campus, which is attended by about 37,000 students. The public university is known for academic excellence, and it attracts top students from around the world.
The university and its students definitely contribute to the overall energy, but it isn’t just students who call the city home. Boulder is very affluent, and people who are able to live there adore the natural beauty and thriving arts scene. It has a unique bohemian vibe, and the locals are committed to sustainability. There are music venues, hiking trails, breweries, and delicious restaurants to enjoy. If you’re looking for a jumping-off point to explore the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is the perfect choice.
How to explore beautiful Boulder
Enjoy the great outdoors around Boulder
Boulder is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and you don’t even have to leave town to feel immersed in nature. Boulder has 46,000 acres of open space for residents and visitors to enjoy and 300 miles of hiking trails. The Flatirons are one of the most iconic natural landmarks and a must-see during your trip to Boulder. You can take in their rugged beauty from several trails around town. The Chautauqua Trailhead offers the most iconic views. The easy Flatirons Vista trail has views of the entire mountain range. A few miles outside of town, you’ll find Boulder Falls along the scenic Boulder Canyon Drive. It’s the perfect adventure for a warm summer day, and you’ll see plenty of locals perched on the rocks enjoying the cool spray from the plummeting 70-foot waterfall. Before you visit, check for local closures, as the area will sometimes prohibit entrance due to trail conditions.
When you’re not hiking, try out other outdoor sports like kayaking. Boulder Creek runs right through town and is an ideal place to cool off during the summer. Tubing and kayaking on the leisurely steam is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. For unmatched thrills, try whitewater rafting on the Cache La Poudre River. Clear Creek is another popular spot nearby for rafting and kayaking.
Boulder is less than an hour away from Rocky Mountain National Park, which is one of the most popular parks in the United States and encompasses over 265,000 acres. There are around 355 miles of trails to explore. The park is home to hundreds of species, including moose, mountain lions, and bears. You can take in epic views along the scenic Continental Divide, hike to alpine lakes, and camp amongst the pines. Arapaho National Forest offers a wilderness escape under 30 minutes from town.
