We 💗 the Left Hand Valley

Roses are red

Violets are blue

Here are things we love

(About living in the LHV)

And we bet you do too

Our Incredible Trail System

Whether you are out for a leisurely stroll, a serious hike, run, or a bike ride, the Left Hand Valley's miles of trails offer something for everyone. Every season offers its unique vistas near and far, from snow-capped peaks in the distance, to the beautiful architecture of bare branches against the sky in winter, to the verdant fields and flowers in the summer.

Upscale and Down to Earth

Niwot and Gunbarrel have been home to Fortune-500 executives, a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, and all manner of accomplished dignitaries, authors, musicians, and academics. And you might just run into one during your next trip to the feed store or while out walking your dog. There's something about the Left Hand Valley's touch of rural living that brings out the homesteader in all of us from time to time.

Food and Drink

There's a wide range of food and beverage options in the Left Hand Valley, and more than a few hidden gems in unexpected places. World class chefs call this area home, and they have access to high-quality organic farms and ranches. In addition, there's award winning craft breweries, cideries, wineries, and mixologists with a passion for filling your glass with the perfect compliment to any meal.

Art, Art, Art

A remarkable number of artists, photographers, designers, and creators make this part of Boulder County their home, so you never have to go too far to see some amazing artwork on display. From Niwot's Community Corner sculpture park, to amazing exhibits in the many small galleries, studios, restaurants and shops in Niwot and Gunbarrel, it's never too hard to find a piece of art that captures your imagination.

Hot Air Balloons

On any warm weather day, early risers are rewarded by the sight of colorful hot air balloons drifting upwards in the morning sky. Depending on where you live and where the day's balloon path is directed, up close views can happen. Those who are especially interested can book a flight, or head out to the launch field to see them as they first ascend.

A Rich History

The farms and communities that would become present-day Niwot and Gunbarrel first appeared in the 1860s, and the native Arapaho settlements go back even further than that. In Niwot, efforts to honor that unique history abound, from the iconic Native American tree sculptures, carved by the late Eddie Running Wolf, to the protected historic block on 2nd Avenue, with buildings dating back more than a century. Since 1983, the Niwot Historical Society has been leading the effort to preserve the town's earliest memories and artifacts, and oversees the Firehouse Museum and Now & Then lecture series on local history.

Niwot Children's Park

In 2016, the Niwot community came together to build a place that its youngest residents and visitors could call their own. The result was Niwot's Children's Park, and with mature landscaping and a million-dollar view of the mountains to the west from the gazebo, it's a perfect place to just "sit and watch the children play" (to borrow a phrase from the Rolling Stones).

Places to De-Stress

Everyone has days or weeks when they need to take a break from the pressures of everyday life and take care of themselves. Our area has plenty of ways to do that. Plan a weekend get-away at Niwot Inn or book a day of pampering at Nourish and Company. Or try one of the many places to get out in nature by bike or on your own two feet. You're never toa far from a relaxing hideout-it's all here.

Wild Friends

Owls, hawks, eagles, bluejays, prairie dogs, foxes, deer, coyotes and bobcats are just some of the four-legged and winged neighbors. No need to visit a national park. They're regularly seen dashing through backyards, across the fields and trails. They skitter over and soar above open space. You know they are there, even if you don't always see them. Just check the snow for evidence or listen for the hoot at dusk.