It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Lost Gulch Overlook gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Boulder, CO is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Since I was not present while caregiver was there and live in Washington state, I”
“Ralph had nothing but great praise for the care he recieved. Thank you so much”
“I just wanted to say thank you for my birthday card, it was very thoughtful.”
“We have engaged Aways Best Care only for about 3 weeks, but the care provider”
“Very pleased with services...wonderful experienced well trained caregivers. Helped with all my needs, questions”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care (ABC) in Longmont provided outstanding,”
“When I was a guardian, ABC provided quality care that allowed my client to stay”
“I am a past client of this provider Our family had a great experience with Always”
“This is an amazing organization!”
“A beautiful and friendly place”
“I am a past client of this provider We had just started and all of these”
“I am a current client of this provider They do a lot of the things we”
“I am a past client of this provider I never had a problem with Always Best”
“I am a current client of this provider They are really good with the clients. They are”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me to take a day off. They”
“I am a current client of this provider It was essential for her recovery. They're very responsive”
“I am a current client of this provider My caregiver helps me with numerous things, like”
“I am a current client of this provider They are reliable and I can count on”
“I am a past client of this provider They helped in the way they interacted with”
“I am a current client of this provider The caregivers are friendly and they help around”
“I am a current client of this provider It's helped me get through a lot of”
“I am a current client of this provider They are helpful for me. Especially the younger”
“I've been here going on three years their so flexible I really enjoy working here”
“They were here for a few hours and always came. Everything was just fine. It”
“When I first came here 10 months ago, Rich couldn't walk. I've never seen a”
“I am a current client of this provider When I first came here 10 months ago,”
“The best employer I have ever worked for. Everyone from the management team and other”
“I am a current client of this provider They have been outstanding. It has not been”
“I’m giving ABC a 5/5 star review because I have been a caregiver with them”
“I’m giving ABC a 5/5 star review because I have been a caregiver with them”
“I am a current client of this provider It leaves me able to get more help”
“I am a past client of this provider They were only there for a short time.”
“This is a great home care company to work for! They are very sweet and”
“I am a past client of this provider They sent the caregiver that we wanted them”
“I am a current client of this provider There is not much they can do. They”
“Great place to work! I've never been happier with a job. The staff is always”
“They help to exercise him and they help with giving him medicines. They provide us”
“I am a current client of this provider They help to exercise him and they help”
“I've been a care giver for 10 years. And just started a month ago with”
“A wonderful group of caregivers managed by an amazing team of supervisors who really care!”
“Since I was not present while caregiver was there and live in Washington state, I can only comment on what I learned from a distance. Always Best Care staff, Holly as care manager, was always prompt with reports, caring in her reporting. The staff said Chloe had Mike out involved in activities which contributed to his improved cognitive. Too bad he fell but sadly nothing to be done about Mike's falls. They sometimes just happen no matter how many aids there are in place. I appreciated the ability of Always Best Care to provide a caregiver in 24'. Thank you.”
“Ralph had nothing but great praise for the care he recieved. Thank you so much for taking care of my brother.”
“I just wanted to say thank you for my birthday card, it was very thoughtful. You have a great team, it's recognized and appreciated. Everyone has made me feel welcome and it was nice visiting with everyone on your caregiver appreciation lunch you had. Keep up the good work and try not to work too hard.”
“We have engaged Aways Best Care only for about 3 weeks, but the care provider is perfect for our needs. She is professional, thoughtful, and proactive. The case manager and community liaison are also personable and responsive. We highly recommend Always Best Care.”
“Very pleased with services...wonderful experienced well trained caregivers. Helped with all my needs, questions and all staff at the office is always available.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care (ABC) in Longmont provided outstanding, emphatic service in helping move a family member into a new residence, making possible a higher level of care for her than previously available. In addition to supporting her prior to and through this highly stressful process, ABC, and particularly Madison and Michelle, provided extremely useful advice to us, including recommendations for movers and for a pet fostering service that will care for some of her pets until their new homes can be identified. Throughout the process ABC gave us abundant time and attention. Their recommendations and support were spot-on. We highly recommend them.”
“When I was a guardian, ABC provided quality care that allowed my client to stay in his current living space. They were great with communication, and overall had a wonderful experience!”
“I am a past client of this provider Our family had a great experience with Always Best Care. The case management that provides oversight for the caregivers is what set them apart. I would highly recommend!”
“This is an amazing organization!”
“A beautiful and friendly place”
“I am a past client of this provider We had just started and all of these hospitalizations happened. It would have had a really nice impact we just weren't able to use it for very long. They were great. Their service was wonderful and the communication was great. I was very happy with the kindness and care.”
“I am a current client of this provider They do a lot of the things we cannot do ourselves. Everyone we have had has been exceedingly pleasant and easy to get along with.”
“I am a past client of this provider I never had a problem with Always Best Care. My experience was positive because they were attuned to the time with everything I needed to do. If there was a paper I needed to be signed, they were helpful. I don't have any memory problems, but they were very friendly. We laughed and talked. They were just like a best friend who took me where I needed to go. I have always told people about Always Best Care and the people working there. I have referred people. Always Best Care is the best. I like how they were attentive when I called. Laura, she knew exactly what I needed. And the timing, they were perfect about the timing. Always Best Care was attuned to what I needed.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are really good with the clients. They are prompt and always on time. They are always on top of everything when we call.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me to take a day off. They seem to be very caring.”
“I am a current client of this provider It was essential for her recovery. They're very responsive and work to make sure they have someone here.”
“I am a current client of this provider My caregiver helps me with numerous things, like helping me get out of my chair, and driving me places. Everybody is very kind, efficient, and thorough.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are reliable and I can count on them and she is getting excellent care. They have great caregivers and they are matched very well.”
“I am a past client of this provider They helped in the way they interacted with her. The caregivers were all very friendly and caring.”
“I am a current client of this provider The caregivers are friendly and they help around the house. They do our laundry. They do not always tell us which caregivers are coming.”
“I am a current client of this provider It's helped me get through a lot of difficult periods. I like the quality of the people they send out.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are helpful for me. Especially the younger girls are so helpful, they volunteer to do things. They're helpful and reliable.”
“I've been here going on three years their so flexible I really enjoy working here”
“They were here for a few hours and always came. Everything was just fine. It was just pricey.”
“When I first came here 10 months ago, Rich couldn't walk. I've never seen a client succeed this far for his age. They are so professional. I would not work with any other company besides ABC.”
“I am a current client of this provider When I first came here 10 months ago, Rich couldn't walk. I've never seen a client succeed this far for his age. They are so professional. I would not work with any other company besides ABC.”
“The best employer I have ever worked for. Everyone from the management team and other caregivers are some of the nicest and compassionate people I have ever encountered. They always listen and take care of questions or concerns I may have.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have been outstanding. It has not been easy for me since me and my husband have a lot of medical appointments. When we are not able to get a car, they are willing to take us in their car, pick up prescriptions, and pick up groceries for us. They are very professional and look and see what needs to be done. They are very flexible and help wherever they can. They help us when the time is good for us.”
“I’m giving ABC a 5/5 star review because I have been a caregiver with them for 5 months and I absolutely love my job. I enjoy caring for other people and helping those who are in need. Besides work, every time I go into the office to pick up my checks I always feel so welcomed by the staff. They even let me bring my mini aussiedoodle there too! If you’re looking for a job that has a friendly staff, flexible schedule, and rewarding, apply TODAY to Always Best Care Senior Services.”
“I’m giving ABC a 5/5 star review because I have been a caregiver with them for 5 months and I absolutely love my job. I enjoy caring for other people and helping those who are in need. Besides work, every time I go into the office to pick up my checks I always feel so welcomed by the staff. They even let me bring my mini aussiedoodle there too! If you’re looking for a job that has a friendly staff, flexible schedule, and rewarding, apply TODAY to Always Best Care Senior Services.”
“I am a current client of this provider It leaves me able to get more help as the pandemic calms down. I can get errands done. I like that the caregivers have been with us through the pandemic and they have been stellar. They are very helpful and I feel safe leaving my husband with the caregivers.”
“I am a past client of this provider They were only there for a short time. They made a big difference. They took care of the basic daily needs. They were very good at being responsive to our questions and they provided generally good caregivers.”
“This is a great home care company to work for! They are very sweet and do a lot for their clients and care givers! Nothing but good things to say about them! I saw the reviews and decided to go with them over other companies and it was definitely a great choice!”
“I am a past client of this provider They sent the caregiver that we wanted them to send. I like the caregivers. They were responsible.”
“I am a current client of this provider There is not much they can do. They cannot do more than what they are doing now. She never stops serving us. I am very pleased. I like the attitude, they always want to work with you. The person that is here is outstanding.”
“Great place to work! I've never been happier with a job. The staff is always helpful and compassionate. They are always willing to work with my hectic schedule and do their best to give me the hours I want. Very organized and professional.”
“They help to exercise him and they help with giving him medicines. They provide us some very good care, and good caregivers.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help to exercise him and they help with giving him medicines. They provide us some very good care, and good caregivers.”
“I've been a care giver for 10 years. And just started a month ago with Abc in longmont. I enjoy working for this company. They are so nice and Alway one step ahead of you. If you are looking for work I recommend ABC..”
“A wonderful group of caregivers managed by an amazing team of supervisors who really care! A perfect choice for your loved ones caregivers who really care about their passions their feelings and their happiness!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Chautauqua Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Flagstaff House or visit Colorado Chautauqua, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Boulder, CO, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Boulder, CO understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Boulder, CO 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
BOULDER — In different ways, Julian "JuJu" Lewis and Kaidon Salter have each impressed their teammates during fall camp as they fight for the Colorado Buffaloes' starting quarterback job.The freshman Lewis has received ample praise for his arm strength and maturity while Salter, a veteran transfer from Liberty, is often hailed for his dual-threat capabilities and veteran leadership. Both bring different abilities to the quarterback position, and with about two weeks remaining until Colorado's season opener, it's still ...
BOULDER — In different ways, Julian "JuJu" Lewis and Kaidon Salter have each impressed their teammates during fall camp as they fight for the Colorado Buffaloes' starting quarterback job.
The freshman Lewis has received ample praise for his arm strength and maturity while Salter, a veteran transfer from Liberty, is often hailed for his dual-threat capabilities and veteran leadership. Both bring different abilities to the quarterback position, and with about two weeks remaining until Colorado's season opener, it's still unclear who will lead the opening drive against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.
After Colorado's Thursday morning practice, tight ends Zach Atkins and Sav'ell Smalls shared their perspective on what each of Colorado's battling quarterbacks brings to the table.
While Atkins admitted that Lewis is still adjusting to the college game, he holds trust in both of Colorado's top quarterbacks to deliver this season.
"They're both great dudes, and they're both really good football players," Atkins said. "Obviously, K-Salt is the vet and JuJu is still learning, but whoever's out there, I have 100 percent faith in both of them."
Atkins spent the past three seasons at Division II Northwest Missouri State, where he totaled 360 receiving yards and four touchdowns. A former wide receiver, Atkins is expected to contribute as both a pass-catcher and run-blocker, something Colorado hasn't seen at the tight end position during the coach Deion Sanders era.
"We're gonna pound the rock, so I actually got to put my head down and block in that aspect of the game," Atkins said. "But also, what I bring to the table is I'm a shifty guy for how big I am. I can get open and make big plays for the team, so I'm really excited about that."
Smalls, a converted defensive end entering his third season at Colorado, was also asked about Salter and Lewis.
"Kaidon's obviously the vet guy, an older guy like myself," Smalls said. "I think he's a great leader. I feel like with quarterbacks, you gotta have a guy who everybody gravitates towards. I feel like they both have that in Kaidon and JuJu. Obviously, JuJu is a little younger, but JuJu has great energy as well. When he's out there, he has crazy zip on the ball."
Whether it's Salter or Lewis starting for the Buffs this season, Smalls said his approach remains the same.
"For me, personally, I don't think it changes my approach," Smalls said. "If I'm in pass protection, I'll block for them. If I'm in the run game, I'll block for Dallan (Hayden) and Micah (Welch) and all them. If they're throwing to me, I'm trying to secure a catch for them."
Boulder’s proximity to dozens of stellar hiking trails makes it an incredible place to live or visit if you love to hike. Nestled at the base of its iconic flat irons, it’s one of the best spots to get into nature.There are so many great trails close to town, the dilemma is knowing which ones to spend time exploring. This list of trails near Boulder includes a variety of hikes for all levels and desires.Betasso Preserve trailsHome to seven short but rewarding trails, the Betasso Preserve is a day-use area t...
Boulder’s proximity to dozens of stellar hiking trails makes it an incredible place to live or visit if you love to hike. Nestled at the base of its iconic flat irons, it’s one of the best spots to get into nature.
There are so many great trails close to town, the dilemma is knowing which ones to spend time exploring. This list of trails near Boulder includes a variety of hikes for all levels and desires.
Home to seven short but rewarding trails, the Betasso Preserve is a day-use area that offers easy, moderate, and difficult hiking. The preserve sits just west of Boulder, immersed in bucolic foothills that are dotted with evergreen trees and rock formations. In addition to hiking, leashed dogs and horseback riding are permitted here. If you’re dying to get out on the trail in a hurry, this spot is just 15 minutes away.
Because this trail connects to the Boulder Creek Path in town and explores the gorgeous canyon of its namesake, it can get crowded, even on weekdays. But if you don’t mind company, it’s an easy and enjoyable two-mile hike that will take you into the mountains just west of town.
Clocking in at almost three miles, this loop is an easy hike that starts just south of Chautauqua Park. Moderately used, the Enchanted Mesa Trail offers some of the best views of the Flatirons in the area. The trail is open year-round, but if you visit during the winter, wear the appropriate footwear to avoid slipping on the ice.
One of the most popular and beloved hikes near Boulder, the Lions’ Lair Trail treks through lush, steep inclines of mountainous evergreen forests. It’s generally thought of as one of the prettiest hikes in the area.
With an 810-foot elevation gain, the Lion’s Lair is a four-mile out-and-back trail that gets tough towards the end. It provides stellar views of the surrounding mountains and the sprawling Front Range Urban Corridor.
Another hike that delivers sublime views of the Flatirons, the Chautauqua Trail Overlook is a moderately challenging and popular trail that starts just outside of Chautauqua Park. Under the right conditions, this short hike delivers surreal above-the-cloud views and picturesque wildflower scenes.
But be warned: between this trail’s proximity to town and its beauty, it’s an extremely popular trail. However, if you show up on a weekday morning, you’ll probably have most of it to yourself.
A quick 15-minute drive south of Boulder, a hike on the Flatirons Vista trail will take you through bucolic grasslands and meadows. Wildlife is bountiful on this trail, and you might see deer, bobcats, and even bears while you hike.
This three-mile loop is said to be a rewarding hike, but make sure your car is locked and that your belongings are out of sight. Numerous reviews of this trail mention car theft occurring in the trailhead parking lot.
Located just southwest of town off of Flagstaff Road, this trailhead provides access to numerous hikes that range from easy to challenging levels of difficulty. Compared to the immense popularity of the nearby trails surrounding Chautauqua Park, local hikers love this network of trails because it’s easy to access and far less crowded.
None of the trails here are particularly long, but the steep elevation gains of the Flagstaff are said to be challenging, making it ideal for experienced hikers looking for something to keep them occupied without taking up much of their time.
Featuring three easy trails set at the length of around three miles each, the Coalton Trailhead is located just north of the Rocky Flats Wildlife Refuge. Compared to the popularity of the trails west of Boulder, these hikes are considerably less crowded. You’ll pass through vast grasslands that offer excellent views of the flat irons and surrounding mountains on these trails.
Located on the western edge of Boulder in picturesque foothills, the Centennial Park Trailhead delivers access to a network of short trails. Ranging from half a mile to a mile and a half long, these trails offer stellar views of red rock formations, the sprawling city of Boulder, and the surrounding mountains.
These hikes are relatively easy, but you won’t have to look for them if you need more of a challenge. Across the street from the trailhead, you’ll find the Mount Sanitas Trailhead, a difficult three-mile loop trail.
A popular hike in the mountains just west of town, the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail is just over a mile long and is considered to be moderately challenging. It’s a great option for getting a quick 45-minute hike in without going far from town. Reaching the top of this out-and-back trail offers gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Boulder.
Boulder’s scenic backdrop isn’t anything to sneeze at, but people travel further north to Rocky Mountain National Park from around the world to experience its astounding natural beauty. About an hour’s drive north of town, this national treasure is loaded with 355 miles of hiking trails.
From pleasant nature walks to trails that feature grueling alpine inclines, there’s more than enough diversity here to please every hiker in your group. And though it’s relatively close to Boulder, there are great places to camp or rent a cabin for the night after your day of exploring one of America’s most pristine and celebrated natural offerings.
Those are among the best places for hiking around Boulder County, Colorado.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.Explore the northern reaches of Chautauqua Park on this 3.1-mile out-and-back that follows Saddle Rock Trail to a small overlook above Boulder. The route starts next to the ranger’s station and heads west across grassy slopes. After 1,000 feet, bear right onto the Ski Jump Trail and climb into fragrant ponderosa forest.Shortly after entering the woods, the trail descends rocky terrain into Gregory Can...
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Explore the northern reaches of Chautauqua Park on this 3.1-mile out-and-back that follows Saddle Rock Trail to a small overlook above Boulder. The route starts next to the ranger’s station and heads west across grassy slopes. After 1,000 feet, bear right onto the Ski Jump Trail and climb into fragrant ponderosa forest.
Shortly after entering the woods, the trail descends rocky terrain into Gregory Canyon. Turn left at the bottom of the descent, then left again onto the Saddle Rock Trail and begin a steady climb. Pass a massive boulder on the right with bird’s-eye views of Boulder at mile 1, then continue climbing for another half mile to a small perch with more views of Boulder and the eastern plains. Stop and take in the scene, then backtrack to the parking area.
-Mapped by Carolyn Michaels
SAD001
Location: 39.998811, -105.282889
From the 3-way junction next to the ranger’s station, hike west on the wide, dirt trail. The Flatirons tower above the high grasses that flank the beginning of the trail.
SAD002
Location: 39.998287, -105.28416
Continue straight, heading southwest.
SAD003
Location: 39.997137, -105.285552
Turn right at Y-junction onto the Ski Jump Trail.
SAD004
Location: 39.996919, -105.28806
The trail enters the trees, which offer welcome shade during the summer months.
SAD005
Location: 39.996931, -105.288951
Turn right at the T-junction toward the Amphitheater Trail. The trail on the left leads to Chautauqua Trail and the Flatirons via the Bluebell-Baird Trail.
SAD006
Location: 39.996898, -105.289686
The trail begins a rocky descent into a thickly forested area. Watch your footing on this potentially slick section.
SAD007
Location: 39.9975, -105.291984
Turn left at 3-way junction. The trail narrows to a rocky path, but widens ahead.
SAD008
Location: 39.99735, -105.292089
Turn left @ T-junction.
SAD009
Location: 39.993446, -105.295908
A large peaked boulder on the side of the trail is the perfect place to take a rest and scope out views of Boulder and the CU campus.
SAD010
Location: 39.991416, -105.296928
The trail begins another steep ascent; boulders flank the path.
SAD011
Location: 39.989459, -105.30064
The Saddle Rock Trail ends at a small lookout with views of Boulder and the Flatirons. To add mileage, continue to Green Mountain Trail; otherwise, turn around and return to the parking area.
Flatirons
Location: 39.998821, -105.282819
Forest
Location: 39.996919, -105.288017
The broad, grassy plains make way for towering ponderosa pines.
Rock Walk
Location: 39.997498, -105.291955
The trail makes the shift from smooth dirt to steep, jutting rocks.
Views of Boulder
Location: 39.99345, -105.295828
Squirrel
Location: 39.992164, -105.296445
A small pine squirrel blends in with the rocks.
Stairway
Location: 39.990637, -105.297708
The broad steps of the trail allow for easy passing and a gradual, comfortable ascent.
Trail’s End
Location: 39.989464, -105.300589
Another stunning view of Boulder from the end of the Saddle Rock Trail.
From the well-signed trailhead, hike northwest on Mount Audubon Trail. The first stretch is easy going as the path climbs gently through fragrant evergreens and passes a golden meadow with intermittent views of the Indian Peaks. At mile 1.3, cross a small boulder field dotted with stunted spruce before heading above treeline.Pikas squeak and scurry across rocks as you climb through alpine meadows and cross another rocky landslide. On cloud-free days, Longs Peak (the highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park) dominates the northern ...
From the well-signed trailhead, hike northwest on Mount Audubon Trail. The first stretch is easy going as the path climbs gently through fragrant evergreens and passes a golden meadow with intermittent views of the Indian Peaks. At mile 1.3, cross a small boulder field dotted with stunted spruce before heading above treeline.
Pikas squeak and scurry across rocks as you climb through alpine meadows and cross another rocky landslide. On cloud-free days, Longs Peak (the highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park) dominates the northern skyline from a grassy saddle at mile 3.4. The final 0.3-mile stretch slows down the pace and ascends talus slopes to Mount Audubon. Pull out the camera and capture stunning views from Lake Granby to Winter Park to Rocky Mountain National Park before retracing your route back to the trailhead.
-Mapped by Kim Phillips and Matt Vellone
AUD001
Location: 40.083763, -105.5811
Follow Mount Audubon Trail, a wide, dirt path that travels northwest through shady conifers.
AUD002
Location: 40.086708, -105.58564
Easy-going trail gently climbs to the north.
AUD003
Location: 40.0905, -105.587326
Pass a golden meadow rimmed by conifers on the right; the Indian Peaks rise dramatically in the background. In .1 mile, the trail switchbacks to the left; gaps in trees reveal views of Brainard Lake to the south; look for white-tailed ptarmigans near the trail.
AUD004
Location: 40.092995, -105.58358
The trail rounds to the north and crosses a small boulder field dotted with stunted conifers.
AUD005
Location: 40.095398, -105.58445
Pass through treeline, and begin traveling up expansive slopes. In 450 feet, pass a skinny wooden post stuck in a rock cairn.
AUD006
Location: 40.097973, -105.586159
A large cairn blocks the path. In 100 yards, keep left @ Y-junction; Beaver Creek Trail diverges on the right. Climb continues ahead.
AUD007
Location: 40.099983, -105.58799
Look to the right across alpine meadows for a dramatic skyline dominated by Longs Peak’s distinct summit ridge.
AUD008
Location: 40.102707, -105.597672
Follow narrow path across a small boulder field; four switchbacks ahead.
AUD009
Location: 40.102169, -105.607193
Navigate a rock-strewn path. Look behind you to the east for views of Boulder’s Flatirons and the eastern plains; pikas squeak and scurry across rocks surrounding trail.
AUD010
Location: 40.102753, -105.611275
Longs Peak comes into view again, rising behind open, grassy slopes. In 650 feet, you’ll crest a grassy saddle.
AUD011
Location: 40.102978, -105.613693
Start the final .3-mile summit climb up talus-covered slopes; cairns mark this off-trail route. A small, rounded rock wall can be found 350 feet to the northwest on the saddle—a perfect place to take shelter from the howling winds. Look down rocky slopes to find 2 small lakes.
AUD012
Location: 40.10218, -105.614166
Continue scramble up talus slopes, heading southwest. Audubon’s broad summit awaits.
AUD013
Location: 40.099197, -105.616264
Mount Audubon (13,223 ft.): Rock shelters dot this long, rock-strewn summit. Views stretch across the Indian Peaks to Lake Granby, Winter Park, the Gore Range, and Longs Peak. Follow same route back to the trailhead.
Meadow
Location: 40.090485, -105.587082
Indian Peaks
Location: 40.091286, -105.585854
Views of the Front Range
Location: 40.103077, -105.60218
View of Longs Peak
Location: 40.102703, -105.611206
Grassy Ridge
Location: 40.103344, -105.613007
Panoramic Views
Location: 40.103077, -105.613541
Summit Climb
Location: 40.102169, -105.614128
Rocky Slopes
Location: 40.101475, -105.614662
Mount Audubon Summit
Location: 40.099289, -105.61615
As historic drought conditions on the Western Slope fuel another dangerous wildfire season, a new paper from researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder warns that human-caused climate change is playing a major role in making those conditions worse.Previously published climatological research has found that the Colorado River Basin’s current “megadrought” is the worst dry spell the region has experienced in at least 1,200 years. But a new study, published last week in the journal Nature, concludes that those pe...
As historic drought conditions on the Western Slope fuel another dangerous wildfire season, a new paper from researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder warns that human-caused climate change is playing a major role in making those conditions worse.
Previously published climatological research has found that the Colorado River Basin’s current “megadrought” is the worst dry spell the region has experienced in at least 1,200 years. But a new study, published last week in the journal Nature, concludes that those persistently dry conditions are being driven by human activity “more intensely — and more directly — than previously understood,” its authors say.
Jeremy Klavans and Pedro DiNezio of CU Boulder’s Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences worked with other scientists from around the country to model how global climate patterns affect rainfall across the U.S. southwest.
Their findings concern a climate pattern known as the Pacific decadal oscillation. Related to the better-known El Niño-La Niña cycle to the south, the PDO is a natural fluctuation that brings warm water to the northeastern Pacific Ocean near the U.S. West Coast during its “positive” phase, leading to more storms and higher-than-average rainfall. During its “negative” phase, however, cooler water and air temperatures result in less precipitation in Western states.
Despite typically reversing itself every one or two decades, the PDO has been “stuck” in the negative, dry phase since the 1990s. By analyzing more than 500 climate model simulations developed by climatologists around the world, the study’s authors were able to paint the clearest picture yet of the influence of human activity on the PDO, and the resulting Southwestern megadrought.
“All of them had this common signal when we averaged them together,” DiNezio said in an interview. “By having so many simulations, we could be absolutely sure that this was not an artifact of a single model, or of a subset of simulations.”
Severe drought conditions have persisted in the Colorado River Basin since 2000, putting increased stress on the water supplies relied on by about 40 million people in Colorado and six other Western states. Water levels in two key reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, have fallen to record lows in recent years.
Rising levels of greenhouse gases, mostly the result of fossil-fuel combustion, have caused much of western Colorado and neighboring states in the Colorado River’s Upper Basin to warm by an average of more than 4 degrees Fahrenheit above pre-industrial levels, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data.
Prior research has attributed about 40% of the post-2000 megadrought to higher temperatures alone, as hotter weather leads to greater evaporation of moisture from water surfaces and soils. Modeling global warming’s precise impacts on rainfall patterns has proved more elusive, but DiNezio said the new research “add(s) more human influence to that previous number.”
“What’s important here is that we’re showing that rainfall has also been influenced by humans, in addition to just evaporation,” he said. “Both contribute to drought.”
Colorado and other states that are parties to the 103-year-old Colorado River Compact have negotiated for years over how to distribute the cuts to water use made necessary by the basin’s ongoing drought. The federal Bureau of Reclamation on Friday announced another year of reduced water allocations for the Lower Basin states of Arizona and Nevada.
Not long ago, the possibility that the Pacific decadal oscillation would eventually reverse itself offered hope that the long-term drought outlook for the U.S. Southwest wasn’t as bad as it seemed. Instead, evidence now suggests the last two decades are the region’s “new normal.”
“I was a Ph.D. student in 2012, and there was a consensus that eventually (the PDO) was going to flip,” DiNezio. “We had a big El Niño in 2015, and there was this idea that El Niño will flip the PDO back to the opposite, rainfall-producing phase. And we had that big El Niño event, and the PDO remained stuck. We just had an El Niño event in 2023 … and (it) also didn’t flip the PDO.”
“That’s the most important implication of our findings,” he added. “That this drought is here to stay, unless we we do something about rising temperatures and global warming.”
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