Tucked away in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Evergreen, Colorado, offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, a vibrant community, and a rich history. With its picturesque landscapes and charming atmosphere, it’s no surprise that Evergreen is increasingly recognized as the perfect place to call home.
Bergen arrived in Evergreen in 1860, during a time when most travelers passed through on their way to the Rocky Mountain gold fields. Although the nearby hills didn’t yield much gold, Bergen established a ranch and hotel on land that had once been a summer hunting ground for the Ute and Arapahoe Indians, becoming one of the first settlers in the area. Evergreen’s dense forests of pine, spruce, and fir provided lumber that supported local families and fed Denver’s demand for new homes and buildings. Farmers also supplied cattle, hay, potatoes, and peas to the city. Soon after Bergen's arrival, settlers began establishing homes and businesses in Bear Creek Canyon, the future downtown Evergreen. Homesteader D. P. Wilmot, who purchased land in 1875, named the area "Evergreen," a name that endured. By the 1880s, the population reached around 200, with six sawmills operating nearby. The town grew with road improvements in 1911 and electrical service in 1917.
In the 1920s, Evergreen transformed from a rural community into a popular summer resort for Denver residents, attracting Hollywood stars to upscale hotels like Troutdale in the Pines. The population swelled from about 600 year-round residents to nearly double in the summer. As roads improved in the 1940s and 50s, more people began commuting from Evergreen to Denver. By the 1970s, the town had established itself as a year-round commuter community.
One of Evergreen's most appealing features is its access to the great outdoors. The area is surrounded by lush forests, serene lakes, and breathtaking mountain views, making it an outdoor enthusiast's dream.
Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or horseback riding, the options are plentiful. Evergreen Lake, for example, provides opportunities for boating in the summer and ice-skating in the winter, while numerous trails wind through the picturesque foothills, inviting exploration year-round.
Despite its close proximity to Denver—only about 30 minutes away—Evergreen offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle that many crave. Residents can enjoy the tranquility of living in the mountains while still having quick access to city amenities, schools, and services.
The housing options in Evergreen vary from charming log cabins and quaint cottages to luxurious mountain estates, accommodating different preferences and budgets. The blend of rustic charm and modern comforts makes it an attractive choice for families, retirees, and individuals alike.
Evergreen boasts a variety of local businesses, including shops, restaurants, and services, ensuring residents have what they need without venturing far. The downtown area, with its quaint shops and eateries, offers a welcoming atmosphere where locals can gather and enjoy community events.
Dining in Evergreen is a delight, with options ranging from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. You can savor delicious local fare, including farm-to-table dishes that highlight fresh ingredients.
Bait Shack Tavern: is a cozy little joint within walking distance from the lake in the Heart of Evergreen. Stop by to catch a ballgame or just share some laughs with friends over a cold beer on our sunny deck. Seafood, hush puppies, BBQ, tacos, po' boys, sandwiches and more.
Beau Jo's Colorado Style Pizza: Colorado's only place for the original Mountain pizza pie. Beau Jo's created Colorado-style pizza 50 years ago, with a hand-rolled edge of crust and pilling toppings in the middle to satisfy any mountain-goer hearty appetite.
Bistro Del Lago: is elevating the art of fine dining. They create authentic Italian dishes, crafted only with fresh and local ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally and their wines are sommelier selected for perfect pairing with their seasonal menu. Enjoy dining in a sophisticated atmosphere surrounded by incredible art and live music. This unique, cozy supper club vibe delivers an exceptional dining experience.
Cactus Jack's Saloon & Grill: has a variety of live music from bluegrass to rock and roll with entertainment scheduled every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in the summer. The food is locally sourced and the libations are good and cold! Everyone is welcome at Cactus Jack’s.
Campfire Evergreen: Inspired by their love of cooking with fire, Campfire offers our guests the best of Neapolitan-style pizza, Texas-style BBQ, and Fire-Roasted Chicken...all in a mountain landscape with a coastal feel! Enjoy the outdoor patio by day, and sit around the campfire with friends while the kids play at the playground and count the stars at night!
The Colorado Creamery: is a locally owned ice cream shop in the heart of Evergreen serving scoops of Little Man Ice Cream, milkshakes and malts, sundaes, ice cream pints, and more. They have vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options available.
Creekside Cellars: wines are produced in Downtown Evergreen with 100% Colorado fruit. More than a winery, Creekside doubles as a Mediterranean café, featuring a menu of paninis, salads, olives, fine cheeses, and antipasto. This is a special destination with an outdoor patio deck overhanging Bear Creek for an enjoyable afternoon shared with family and friends.
Java Groove: a popular coffee shop located in Denver, Colorado, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious offerings. It typically features a cozy setting, making it an ideal spot for coffee lovers, remote workers, or anyone looking to relax with a good drink.
Kiki's Fresh Bowls: offers made-to-order acai bowls, poke bowls, smoothies, and refreshing beverages. Whether you want something savory to delight your taste buds or something sweet to satisfy your cravings, all of Kiki's ingredients are all-natural and flavor-filled.
Lariat Lodge Brewing Company: features classic brewed craft beers, and upscale comfort food locally sourced and handcrafted cocktails. Open daily with Happy Hour and Weekend Brunch menus available.
Little Bear Saloon: is known across the country for its atmosphere and live music scene. The Little Bear fits everyone's image of an old Western saloon: Swinging doors, brass registers, old wooden bar stools, walls, and ceilings covered with names carved into every square inch. There are numerous vintage signs and license plates from around the country and other corners of the globe.
Muddy Buck Cafe: Evergreen's original coffee bean roastery, coffee house, and boutique bar located along the historic boardwalk in Downtown Evergreen. Offering made-to-order savory breakfast and lunch, coffee drinks, loose-leaf teas, and freshly baked pastries.
Murphy's Mountain Grill: they visualized handcrafted cuisine and items made from scratch to be as fresh and natural as the scenery around them. The crisp mountain air and creekside setting invigorated their creative senses in crafting the distinctive, flavor-filled menu including unique tantalizing cocktails and artisan milkshakes.
Whether you enjoy arts and culture or outdoor adventures, Evergreen has something for everyone. The community hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Evergreen Music Festival, summer farmers' markets, ice skating, and holiday celebrations.
The gorgeous surrounding landscape is also a hub for winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, ensuring that Evergreen residents have access to year-round recreation.
With its breathtaking scenery, strong sense of community, and convenient access to urban amenities, Evergreen truly is the perfect place to call home. Whether you're looking for adventure, a serene lifestyle, or a close-knit community, you’ll find all that and more in Evergreen. If you’re considering a move, take a moment to visit this vibrant mountain town—you might just discover your new home!
Kelly Thompson-Milner, REALTOR
303.587.3846
Kelly’s Additional Credentials:
Residential Construction Certified
New Build Specialist Designation
ADDRESS
200 Columbine St #500
Denver, CO 80206
KELLY THOMPSON