As a Colorado resident for the past 20 years, I always feel as though I’ve lived the best of both worlds in this beautiful state.
Originally from Pennsylvania (near Philly), I ventured out to Vail, Colorado, in search of fresh powder, skiing and sunshine (if you are from the East Coast, you’ll know what I mean by seeking sunshine in the winter). This quaint little mountain/ski town became my home for 10 years.
Living in a resort town certainly had its perks. Some of the world’s best skiing/snowboarding in my “back yard” during the winter, and the most amazing hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer. They say,“You come to Colorado for the winter, but you stay for the summer.” The mountains are an absolutely beautiful and magical place to live…if you don’t mind the cold evenings.
If you ever have the chance to experience living as a “local” in a resort town…do it! Although very expensive (yes – I was young and poor), it was such an incredible time of my life. The pure energy, the beauty of Vail, the bonding of fellow town locals, the wildlife and all the wonderful things to do in the mountains and resort…there’s simply no comparison!
But, after 10 years of all the mountain sports and activities I could possibly take on, I was ready to get back to “city living.” I missed the conveniences of…oh…let’s say, affordable shopping, affordable dining, warm summer evenings, easy access to the airport, affordable activities, etc.
I’ve now lived in Denver for 10 years, and although I do on occasion miss the mountains, I don’t regret moving to the city one bit. Although a major hub in the West, downtown Denver is still kind of small-ish, so it’s very easy to get around. Weather is extremely ideal all year and the city has grown by leaps and bounds with its culture. Award winning museums and music venues abound. And who can pass up one of the most amazing concert places in the summer? Red Rocks Amphitheatre….
In addition to the hip culture, Denver also entertains with a variety of restaurants/bars, convenient shopping, outdoor activities and award winning events, which have put Denver on the map as one of the nation’s best places to live.
Talk about being “a mile high.” This photo was taken at the recent U2 concert. I was near the top row of the Sports Authority Stadium at Mile High (formerly Invesco Field). What a beautiful evening that was, with the concert below and the city and mountain views straight ahead!
Outdoor activities are not only a must for the mountain folks, it’s the same for Denver city-folk. You’ll see people biking, hiking, running, etc. all months of the year. It’s because Denver is actually very mild during the winter months. You’ll actually see people driving with their convertible tops down on a mild day in January!
All in all…in my 20 years of beautiful mountains, beautiful sunshine, beautiful people…Colorado is now my home; and E.B. Lane can call Denver home too! Welcome to Colorful Colorado!
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