Surviving Snow Days on the Front Range

Winter in Chautauqua Park

Do you ever wake up and frown when you look out the window to see it’s snowing? I think we all do sometimes. The extra time it takes to shovel the driveway, scrape the ice off your car, and change between snow boots and regular shoes can be a hassle. Here’s how to make the best of a snowy day in Boulder:

  1. Layer up! Multiple layers will keep you warm outside, and prevent overheating inside. Make sure to cover your head! Start with an insulating base layer made of merino wool or a synthetic blend. On the coldest of days, add a fleece and then down jacket. Top it off with a GoreTex outer layer, gloves, and a hat to ensure you stay warm and dry all day long.
  2. Check to see whether your car has a remote start feature. Starting your car from the warmth of your house or work is a life saver when it's parked out in the snow.
  3. Make time for play! Maybe this means ski-commuting to work or the grocery store, or taking your kids sledding down the street. Either way, embracing the fun activities to be had in the snow is the best way to avoid resenting it.

While gray, cold weather can certainly put a damper on plans, try to keep in mind that the storm will pass (both meteorologically and metaphorically).

Backcountry Skiing up Bear Canyon

How to be a Competitive Buyer in a Seller’s Market

Image from Keeping Current Matters

There's no getting around it; now is a tough time to be a buyer. With scarce active listings and median home prices creeping up, it may seem like a tough time to buy a home. Here are a few things you can do to remain competitive in this market:

First and foremost, know your budget. This way you can make informed decisions before putting in an offer. Knowing your budget allows you to narrow your search and focus energy on homes within your price range.

Compile a list of must haves and deal-breakers. If you know you are looking for a 2+ bath home, referencing this list will keep you from making offers on a home that may not actually suit your needs.

Get pre-approved to borrow. This shows the seller that you are serious about purchasing their house and can fast track your offer.

Build a team of trusted professionals. You'll have a better chance at landing your dream home when working with experienced leaders in the industry.

Winter Activities at Brainard Lake

View from below Lefthand Reservoir

Brainard Lake Recreation Area is one of the most beautiful spots in the Front Range. Nestled between Nederland and Ward, Brainard Lake is just 45 minutes up the mountains from Boulder. To complement summer hiking, fishing, backpacking, and cycling, this area offers incredible winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and picnicking. 

From about November to May, the Brainard Lake Road is closed beyond the entrance station. This road turns into an excellent start for any skiing, snowshoeing, or picnic adventure. From the entrance station, you have three route options: stay on the road, veer left onto Lefthand Park Reservoir Road, or turn right onto the Sourdough Trail. 

Heading straight on Brainard Lake Road offers adventurers a relatively flat path, perfect for learning to cross country ski or snowshoe. Red Rock Lake is the first destination on this path, just ½ mile beyond the entrance station. From here, users can follow the road another 1.5 miles to Brainard Lake.

Those looking for some elevation gain may opt to follow Lefthand Park Reservoir Road to Lefthand Park Reservoir for beautiful views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This winter trail climbs 600 feet over the course of 1.8 miles to the reservoir.

For people who enjoy the solitude of snowy singletrack, Sourdough Trail offers miles and miles of pristine winter wilderness. This trail connects to South Saint Vrain and Waldrop trails for a long, scenic route to Brainard Lake.