Idledale, CO

Tucked into Bear Creek Canyon just four miles west of Morrison, Idledale gives residents a true mountain feel minutes from the Denver metro area. Homes here dot the hillsides along Highway 74, following the curves of the canyon and the creek. Originally established as a summer getaway called Starbuck Heights, the community was rebuilt in the 1930s and has settled into a quiet, laid-back residential enclave.

ATTRJeffrey Beall / CC BY-SA 3.0

Daily life here revolves around the canyon corridor. You will find great hiking and fishing right down the road at Lair o' the Bear Park, while nearby Morrison and Evergreen handle grocery runs, restaurants, and everyday errands. Local students are served by Jefferson County Public Schools, and the drive down into the city is remarkably short. It is an appealing choice for anyone seeking rustic foothill character and scenic creek views close to the Front Range.