9 Towns In The Rockies That Are Ideal For Seniors
The Rocky Mountains are home to some of the most breathtaking scenic vistas in the world, attracting countless visitors every year. Whether hiking through pine forests, fishing in icy-cold, snow-fed streams, or standing on a rugged peak gazing as far as the eye can see, there is a glorious appeal to the mountains that must be experienced to be understood. Throughout the pristine wilderness, there are small towns dotting the landscape, each with a rich history and rustic ambiance all their own. Still, as wonderful as these places might be for the casual tourist, these same mountain communities often offer ideal places for seniors wishing to spend their latter years. Many retirees find these close-knit communities to have meaningful connections, quality healthcare, and reasonable living costs, helping them live vibrant and active lives. The following nine towns are havens where older adults can experience true mountain living in their later years without feeling that their lives might have passed them by.
Evergreen, Colorado
Evergreen is a town about forty minutes outside of Denver along Interstate 70, with over 20% of its residents enjoying retirement. The town offers urban amenities due to its proximity to the capital but is far enough away to provide a serene mountain lifestyle. Alderfer 3 Sisters Park, with 16 miles of trails spanning some 1,600 acres of perfect mountain wilderness, is a popular spot for hiking. Expect to see abundant wildlife, as deer and elk are often present, as you maneuver through the pines, climbing up to the stunning views from the mountains surrounding the town. Evergreen Lake is an excellent place for trout fishing, and the 1.3-mile hiking trail offers several spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.
The downtown district is small but charming, with unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The Evergreen Gallery is an example, featuring many handcrafted items from local artists. Murphy's Mountain Grill is a beautiful spot for burgers and a brew. If you prefer a more upscale mountain experience, try The Bistro at Marshdale.
The town is firmly committed to keeping seniors active and engaged with many programs, including Seniors4Wellness, a local non-profit agency offering various diverse activities, transportation, and support. Evergreen has multiple medical offices and facilities, so you don't have to travel far to see a doctor. Several major trauma hospitals, like the prestigious Centura St. Anthony Hospital, are located near Lakewood and Golden, about forty minutes away.
While the cost of living is higher than the national average, the town's beauty, amenities, and proximity to Denver make it an appealing place for seniors. Most residents will tell you that getting around in the winter months isn't too challenging, but it helps to have an all-wheel drive car for the few times when the snow accumulates.
Lafayette, Colorado
Lafayette is a lively community, serving as a suburb of Boulder, and it is considered one of the best places to live in the country. The town is an active retiree's paradise, offering ample outdoor activities to help seniors live engaging and meaningful lives. The town takes pride in providing excellent municipal support to its residents, with dedicated green spaces, community gardens, and free on-demand city transit. Waneka Lake Park, situated less than twenty miles to the north, is a beautiful reservoir that offers fishing and serves as a wildlife preserve for bird-watching enthusiasts. Additionally, the community hosts a monthly arts festival and various annual events, including the annual peach festival each August.
Old Town Lafayette uniquely blends art galleries, shops, and restaurants. One interesting example of public support for the arts is that the city encourages local artists to showcase their work using the alleyways as their canvas. You can experience the creativity of these artists by taking an Alley Tour. The Read Queen is a popular local spot serving as an independent bookstore and cafe. The Morning Glory Farm Fresh Cafe is an excellent place to visit for a delicious breakfast and coffee. If you have grandchildren stopping by to say hello, they will enjoy the WOW! Children's Museum in Lafayette.
While the cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, it is significantly lower compared to Boulder and other areas in the Rockies. The community offers good access to healthcare facilities, and the fuel and food prices are reasonable. It's easy to understand why this community is a great place to live.
Deer Lodge, Montana
Deer Lodge is a small town in western Montana, approximately halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. This town is known for having significantly lower living and healthcare costs than the rest of the state, and it's also one of the safest places to live in Montana. The community offers many historical sites, including the Old Montana Prison Complex, the Grant-Kohrs Ranch, and the Garnet Ghost Town, one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the West. Regarding outdoor activities, Deer Lodge offers several hiking trails, including the Dolus Lake Trail, a moderate hike of 6.9 miles through the Deer Lodge National Forest. Please note that you'll need a 4-wheel vehicle to reach the trailhead, but once you hike the trail, it will become one of your favorites. If you want a more leisurely stroll, try the grounds of the Grant-Kohrs Ranch, a national historic site.
The Powell County Medical Center is one of the many healthcare facilities in the region, and the community has good support for various older adult agencies, such as the Senior Center, which offers low-cost meals on weekdays and educational experiences. With Butte, Montana, only 30 minutes away and the home to four colleges, there are plenty of opportunities for concerts and art programs to help keep seniors engaged. With the median home price ranging between $250,000 to $300,000, the cost is less than the state average, which lends to its appeal.
Laramie, Wyoming
Laramie is a vibrant college town in Albany County in the southwestern part of the state. Initially established as a railroad stop during the days of the Wild West, it gained a reputation for lawlessness. However, today, the town is much different as it is home to the University of Wyoming. As a small college town, it's filled with the energy and activity you might expect, but there are also exceptional cultural and educational experiences for retirees. Residents often attend university-sponsored events like symphony or concert recitals at the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. The University of Wyoming Art Museum collects works from world-class artists, including local, regional, and international exhibits. Additionally, many retirees take advantage of the University's educational classes, as senior citizens can audit classes on campus free of charge.
For active seniors, there are ample opportunities to hike, fish, and camp in the two mountain ranges nearby. The Snowy Mountains are situated to the west of the town, while the Laramie Mountain range is located to the north; both are about half an hour away. Two wildlife refuges, Hatton and Bamforth, provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities for elk, black bears, moose, and various bird species.
Laramie boasts a charming historic downtown area with many turn-of-the-century buildings. The brick storefronts add a rustic and Western ambiance that celebrates its Wild West heritage. Many shops, galleries, and restaurants exist, including Born in a Barn, a woodsy sports bar serving excellent burgers, and a popular local hangout. Sweet Melissa's is a great option for a healthier farm-to-table menu. The city provides free public transit to make getting around easy, so attending events is hassle-free.
The town has a crime rate well below the national average, and residents can access quality medical care. Although home prices have been rising, they are still reasonably priced compared to other areas in Wyoming. While winter is cold, with over 50 inches of snow a year, summer temperatures are usually in the 70's to 80's. The only drawback is that the town is situated on the eastern edge of the Rockies next to open prairies where the wind tends to blow.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is a beautiful historic mining town sitting at the base of the Rocky Mountain Tenmile Range. It is a popular destination for retirees due to the breathtaking mountain scenery that surrounds it. The town offers stunning views of majestic mountain peaks, vibrant golden aspen trees during fall, and picturesque winter landscapes when it snows. Seniors can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, trout fishing, and skiing or snowboarding.
The downtown area of Breckenridge is next to the swiftly flowing Blue River, which runs through the heart of the district and adds to its rustic charm. The town has a vibrant arts scene that is home to many creative artisans and craftsmen. The Breckenridge Gallery is one example of several excellent venues featuring high-quality local art. Foodies will also enjoy the various eclectic restaurants in the area, such as Empire Burger, which specializes in gourmet burgers and brews, and Fatty's Pizzeria, a long-standing place for great pizza and wings. Because the town is a popular tourist destination, most of the locals are helpful and welcoming to strangers, willing to support efforts to attract visitors with deep pockets.
As you might expect with any mountain vacation destination, Breckenridge can be expensive, particularly for those with a tight budget. The cost of living is higher than the national average, with premium pricing for housing and other expenses. If you plan to retire to the area for the long term, you will need to ensure that you have the financial means or the ability to work remotely to sustain this mountain lifestyle. There is excellent access to medical care and free local transit. With its proximity to Denver less than two hours away, it is easily accessible should relatives want to visit. Be prepared for tourists because the town can also be crowded at times, particularly during the busy winter season. Still, if you live in Breckenridge, there is always something to do and see, ensuring that you will never be bored, even though the mountain experience comes with a price.
McCall, Idaho
McCall is a fantastic destination for retirees who want to spend their golden years in a picturesque resort town. The town offers stunning views of mountains, crystal-clear waters, and wildlife. McCall is located on the edge of Payette Lake, which is home to various fish species, including lake and rainbow trout, salmon, and sturgeon. During summer, many people enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the vibrant blue water of this glacial lake.
The warmer season is perfect for seniors to hike or bike on many trails throughout the Payette National Forest. Ponderosa State Park, located to the north, offers some of the most postcard-perfect views in the entire state. There are five golf courses in the town and three additional venues less than twenty miles away, providing plenty of green space to work on your handicap. Those who seek relaxation can visit several therapeutic hot springs nearby. If you love winter sports, McCall is the perfect place for you. The town gets the most average snowfall in the state, providing many opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as snowmobiling, alpine skiing, and snowboarding.
Downtown McCall has several boutiques, shops, and restaurants. Steamers is a good local hangout in the heart of McCall, serving fresh entrees at reasonable prices. The town has a strong retiree presence, with 14% of the community over 65 years old. Healthcare services in the region are excellent, but the cost of living is slightly higher than in other areas of the state. Housing costs tend to be higher because the town is a resort destination, making this the largest contributor to daily expenses.
Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Pagosa Springs is a charming small town that has been gaining popularity among young professionals and retirees. It is an ideal location for families and senior adults due to its low cost of living, exceptional schools, and safe neighborhoods. The magnificent San Juan Mountains encircle the town, giving it a quaint mountain feel. With over 1.8 million acres of the San Juan National Forest covering Southwest Colorado, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing during the winter months. One of the best hiking trails is the Coyote Hill Loop, which is a popular trail through the forest that leads to some great views of Pagosa Peak.
The downtown district of Pagosa Springs is an interesting blend of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The San Juan River flows right through the heart of the town and is known for its excellent trout fishing. Local artisans and crafters showcase their work at Antiques on Main or East Side Market. Don't forget to visit PS Chocolates or The Choke Berry Tree for a wide selection of artisan chocolates, fudge, and freshly roasted coffee. The Junction Restaurant has been serving family-style breakfasts, lunches, and dinners since 1983 and is a great place to stop for a bite to eat.
Pagosa Springs is a peaceful and slow-paced community in comparison to other parts of Colorado. However, due to its remote location, city services may be slower than what retirees are used to. It's not uncommon for residents to make monthly trips to nearby cities like Durango to stock up on supplies. This is especially true for those who decide to make mountain communities their home.
Corrales, New Mexico
Corrales is part of the Albuquerque metropolitan area, about half an hour north of the city center. Despite being a small town, it offers all the amenities that one can expect from a big city. The town has a significant number of retirees who are drawn to the area due to its low cost of living, safe streets, and quiet neighborhoods. The Rio Grande runs through the valley close to the town, providing a lush agricultural eco-space for local farms and wineries. The Corrales Winery is one such winery that is popular among visitors. There are also several city green spaces and parks that you can explore or go hiking along the river at the Corrales Bosque Preserve.
This town is a highly attractive place to live due to its tranquil and peaceful lifestyle. Most of the private homes in the area sit on one-acre lots, providing ample space for trees, gardens, or small pastures. The community is close-knit with caring families who are determined to keep the urban sprawl at bay and preserve the paradise they enjoy. While there is strong support for local businesses, residents should expect to pay slightly higher municipal taxes than other areas in the metropolitan area.
Every October, the Albuquerque Balloon Festival takes place, where hundreds of colorful hot air balloons take flight right over the town toward the Sandia Mountains. A number of companies offer balloon rides all year long, which is a thrill for families who visit. If you like craft beers, the Ex Novo Brewing Company is the place to be, and the Indigo Crow Cafe has an outdoor patio that is the perfect place to enjoy good food while sipping on your favorite glass of wine. Due to its location, easy commute to other attractions, and access to quality healthcare, it is easy to see why this town is one of New Mexico's favorite places for retirees.
Nelson, British Columbia
If your ideal retirement home includes hiking through a dense forest, fishing in a glacier-fed lake, or testing your skills on a rugged mountain bike trail, then Nelson, British Columbia, checks all the boxes. This small town of 10,000 residents sits on Lake Kootenay, with the Selkirk Mountains rising over the town in every direction. The region is home to the last inland Temperate Rainforest with centuries-old-growth timber, incredible foliage, and diverse wildlife. Be prepared to glimpse bears feeding in salmon-filled rivers, bald eagles building nests in the trees above, or caribou feasting on the lichens that grow deep in the woods. Nelson has a strong biking community, with trails for every skill level. The Bottoms Up and Little Lefty are easy trails, while the Bear's Den is a black diamond downhill run that is quite popular.
Living In Nelson does have its challenges, as the winter months can be cold and biting, but most months, the temperature is warmer, peaking around 82 degrees Fahrenheit in June. With an average snowfall of 64 inches each year, winter activities include snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding. The Whitewater Ski Resort fills up every winter, as the area is known as a premier ski destination. When you visit, try a favorite local hangout, the Main Street Diner, which has been part of the community for over 40 years.
Nelson has a cost of living which is less than the national average, but housing can sometimes be challenging to find. In addition, the town can become somewhat isolated, especially during the winter season. There is local medical care, with the Lake Kootenay Hospital being a level 1 community hospital, providing emergency and surgical services. While most review sites encourage potential residents to visit before they decide to move, the chances are that you will want to stay once you travel there.
Finding the right place to retire is an essential decision for senior citizens who are comtemplating where to spend their remaining years. Many of the small towns in the Rockies enjoy incredible natural habitats, with ample activities to keep older adults engaged. These communities tend to be very close-knit but also very welcoming to visitors. While the mountain lifestyle might not be for everyone, these places can provide seniors with the kind of living that can genuinely make the latter years golden indeed.
