Denver Suburbs For The Outdoorsy Expat: Where Nature Meets Urban Living

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Denver Suburbs For The Outdoorsy Expat: Where Nature Meets Urban Living

For those who love the outdoors but enjoy the convenience of city living, there are many Denver suburbs for the outdoorsy expat to choose from. Denver’s suburbs provide easy access to nature with hiking trails, parks, and outdoor activities just minutes away while close to urban amenities. Expats moving to this area will find plenty of options that fit their outdoor lifestyle without sacrificing comfort.

These suburbs offer endless opportunities to stay active and connect with nature, from biking to skiing or simply taking in the scenic views. Therefore, the following sections highlight some of the best Denver suburbs for those who want a lifestyle rooted in both adventure and city living.

Denver: Where Outdoor Adventures Begin

Denver is the perfect starting point for those who want to enjoy the outdoors while still living in a bustling city. Known for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers quick access to hiking, skiing, and endless other activities. This makes it a great place for expats who love staying active and connecting with nature. Engaging in outdoor activities regularly can also help expats beat loneliness, as shared experiences with like-minded people foster social connections. Whether it’s a weekend hike or an after-work bike ride, Denver provides the chance to recharge and meet new people while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

Aerial view of Denver, Colorado, showcasing the city's skyline with green parks and the Rocky Mountains in the background. — Denver is a place where urban living meets outdoor beauty, perfect for the outdoorsy expat looking for the best of both worlds.

Highlands Ranch: Outdoor Fun Just Outside Denver

Highlands Ranch is a great suburban option for those looking to stay close to Denver but still want plenty of outdoor activities at their fingertips. Located just south of the city, Highlands Ranch features extensive parks and open spaces that make it easy to enjoy nature. It’s perfect for expats who want the benefits of suburban living without giving up their outdoor hobbies. Highlands Ranch offers:

Over 2,000 acres of open space.
A network of trails that can be perfect for hiking and biking.
Community parks and recreation centers.

The variety of activities here ensures something for everyone, making it easier to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and meet new people.

Broomfield: The Perfect Mix of Nature and City Access

Broomfield is a suburb that offers a balanced lifestyle for those who want easy access to outdoor spaces and the city. The city is located between Denver and Boulder. Additionally, Broomfield is known for its scenic parks, trails, and open spaces, making it an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts. So, relocation is straightforward for those considering a move to this area, especially with the help of a reliable moving team in Broomfield. Also, knowing that the area offers modern amenities and housing options is important. Therefore, it makes the transition smooth for newcomers.

So, with everything from biking trails to spacious parks, Broomfield provides countless ways to enjoy the outdoors. At the same time, proximity to two major cities gives residents easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Littleton: Small-Town Feel with Big Outdoor Opportunities

Littleton is a charming suburb that blends a small-town atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities. It offers quick access to parks, rivers, and scenic trails just minutes from Denver. Littleton is an ideal option for those seeking the Denver suburbs for the outdoorsy expat. It provides the perfect mix of nature and convenience, allowing residents to enjoy biking along the South Platte River or hiking at Chatfield State Park. With its proximity to both nature and city life, Littleton makes it easy to stay active while still being close to the urban lifestyle.

A young man with a backpack walking through a street, looking back at the camera in an outdoor urban setting. — You’ll see how outdoor adventures and urban life blend seamlessly in Denver.

Boulder: Outdoor Adventures with a Sustainable Twist

Boulder is a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors with a focus on sustainability. Located just a short drive from Denver, it offers everything from hiking the iconic Flatirons to biking along scenic trails. Boulder’s commitment to green living makes it stand out for eco-conscious expats. While enjoying Boulder’s natural beauty, staying in touch with your loved ones is easy, thanks to the area’s strong connectivity and amenities. With year-round outdoor activities, Boulder is ideal for those looking to live an active, eco-friendly lifestyle.

Lakewood: One of the Best Denver Suburbs for the Outdoorsy Expat

Lakewood is great for those wanting quick access to the city and nature. Situated just west of Denver, Lakewood offers plenty of outdoor spaces for relaxation and recreation. Exploring nearby parks or enjoying a day by the lake is easy. So, if you decide to live in this suburb, here are some of the popular outdoor spots you might want to check out:

Bear Creek Lake Park: Ideal for hiking, fishing, and boating.
Green Mountain: Offers scenic trails perfect for biking or hiking.
Belmar Park: A serene spot for picnics and bird watching.

Lakewood provides a great balance of outdoor fun while keeping you close to city life.

Evergreen: Mountain Views and Active Living

Evergreen offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking mountain views just a short drive from Denver. This suburb is perfect for those who want to be surrounded by nature while staying close to the city. With its numerous hiking trails and serene lakes, outdoor activity is always nearby.

If you prefer staying active indoors, you can easily build a workout space in your new home in Evergreen. Take advantage of the spacious houses typically found in this area. Whether hiking, fishing, or enjoying the quiet beauty of the mountains, Evergreen is a good choice. This suburban area provides endless opportunities to embrace an active lifestyle.

A person waving a hat from a car window while driving along a gravel road under a bright, cloudy sky. — Enjoy the open road and scenic landscapes that come with exploring the Denver suburbs, which are perfect for the outdoorsy expat seeking adventure and relaxation.

Nature and City Living: The Best of Both Worlds

The Denver suburbs are perfect for outdoorsy expats looking to balance their love of nature with the practicality of urban life. These areas offer access to outdoor activities and a comfortable and convenient place to call home. Whether hiking, biking, or spending a day by a local lake, these suburbs provide countless ways to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Denver. Each suburb brings something unique, making finding a place that fits individual preferences easy. So, choosing one of these suburbs ensures an active lifestyle without giving up modern conveniences.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.