Alluring, spacious communities perched atop the plateaus with staggering mountain vistas and access to the best of Boulder
Where the golden plains meet the staggering expanse of the Rocky Mountains lies the dynamic city of Boulder, whose reputation as one of the nation’s most vibrant cities is well-earned. Whenever Boulder is mentioned, many might picture the bustling downtown, packed with microbreweries and hip art galleries, upscale boutiques, and revered gastropubs. But, just east of the city’s limits are several collections of wide-sweeping communities, whose large plots and jaw-dropping vistas are just the start of their appeal.
Tucked east of the Valmont Reservoir and around Colorado-7, the communities of Paul Nor Estates, Willow Glen, and Park Lake serve as a peaceful retreat from the urban thrum of Boulder. While each neighborhood maintains its distinctive personality, as a whole, these communities share desirable attributes such as phenomenal views of the Flatiron Mountains and proximity to both the accouterments of Downtown Boulder, as well as open park spaces and hiking trails.
Housing in these neighborhoods can vary and most frequently includes lovely ranch homes with basements, two-story single-family homes with basements, well-appointed luxury homes, and spread-out lots holding ample land and room for larger houses or farms. Park Lake is the most established of the three neighborhoods, but each is replete with new-build homes.
All three neighborhoods are currently experiencing a transition. While most of the population trends towards retirement age, an influx of younger families and couples has contributed to many updates to homes and remodeling. Residents most often describe their neighborhood as quiet and serene, and even as the city of Boulder continues its expansion, these rural-feeling areas are apt to keep their secluded but still-suburban vibes.
Things to Do in Boulder
While Paul Nor Estates, Willow Glen, Lake Park, and the surrounding communities might be entirely residential, locals are never too far from the exciting offerings of Downtown Denver or the invigorating green space of nearby parks. One of the closest options for outdoor excursions is the Gunbarrel East Boulder Trail Loop, a 1.5-mile path bursting with wildflowers and changing seasonal beauty.
Dining in Boulder
Denver is revered as a foodie’s paradise, and its dining scene certainly doesn’t disappoint. Just 15 minutes from the sheltered and tranquil streets of all three neighborhoods, restaurants like Basta live up to the city’s reputation of culinary excellence. Wood-fired pizzas and locally- sourced, seasonal ingredients make up the pillars of this authentic Italian hotspot, which draws in diners from all over the city. The flavors of Denver are diverse, ranging from the refreshing Argentinian dishes of Rincon Argentino to vegan junk food at beloved cafes like The Bumbling Bee.
Boulder Shopping
When your appetite’s been satiated, it’s time to hit up the plethora of shops right at your fingertips. The four-block pedestrian shopping center known as Pearl Street Mall is a must-visit for retail enthusiasts and artists alike, both of whom will appreciate the collection of boutiques and galleries.
Paul Nor Estates, Willow Glen, and Park Lake are all within proximity of excellent educational opportunities. The area is served primarily by the Boulder Valley School District, which is ranked first in the greater Boulder area and includes grades PK & K-12. Notable schools in the area include:
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