You Can Strike Gold Right Here in Colorado
So you wanna be a gold-digger? No seriously—here’s how to get started with gold-panning in Colorado.
Why It’s Important to Stay Home This Thanksgiving, According to an Infectious Disease Doctor
More Coloradans than ever are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 and the viral spread shows no signs of easing. To curb transmission, state officials are urging residents to avoid interacting with anyone outside their household for the rest of November—and that includes Thanksgiving.
How to Learn to Skateboard (aka, Fall on Your Ass With Grace)
When COVID-19 cleared Denver’s streets of cars, one local writer faced an existential question: skate or die?
First-Timer’s Guide: Curecanti National Recreation Area
This paradise in southwest Colorado brims with unworldly rock formations, hundreds of incredible campsites, and the state’s largest shoreline—and there are opportunities for adventure year-round.
Craft Beer World Remembers Denver Beer Co. Head Brewer Jason Buehler
Buehler, 43, died in a climbing accident near Aspen on November 6.
Have You Tasted These 3 Award-Winning Colorado-Made Products?
Grüvi non-alcoholic beers and wines, Mortal Kombucha beverages, and Bloombox Foods salad dressings took top honors at Naturally Boulder’s 2020 Pitch Slam.
Meet Iman Jodeh, Colorado’s First-Ever Muslim Lawmaker
Iman Jodeh, a 38-year-old daughter of Palestinian immigrants, was elected to serve as a Colorado state representative last week.
How One Denver Bar Owner Fought A Three-Day Eviction Notice
Bar Helix owner Kendra Anderson was ordered to vacate her bar despite a state-mandated requirement that tenants must receive 30-days notice.
Denver’s Hotel Industry Struggles to Rebound from COVID-19 Impacts
Almost eight months after hotels temporarily closed, the industry is still making up for lost time—and revenue.
Camp Christmas Returns with a Virtual Winter Wonderland
This year’s Camp Christmas offers access to an immersive online experience sprung from the imagination of creator Lonnie Hanzon, along with packages filled with festive crafts and activities to complete at home.
The Mental Health Advice We All Need Right Now
It’s been a quite a week and an extraordinary year. If you’re feeling anxious, know you’re not alone. We asked the experts to share practical tips for how to cope in these difficult times.
What the Mayor’s Latest Order Means for Restaurants and Bars
As of Sunday, November 8, in-person dining and liquor sales are prohibited after 10 p.m.
Mayor Hancock Issues a “Home-by-10” Order, Effective Sunday Night
City officials hope the new restrictions, which they wouldn’t call a curfew, will help avoid another stay-at-home order as COVID-19 cases continue to surge.
How Local Restaurants Are Reducing the Environmental Impact of Takeout
From fully compostable containers to a reusable tiffin system, Colorado eateries are taking great efforts to make to-go more sustainable.
Colorado’s COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Reach an All-Time High
During a virtual press conference on Thursday, Governor Jared Polis pleaded with Coloradans to avoid gatherings and continue wearing masks as the state’s COVID-19 rates head in a grim direction.
Howl About That: Coloradans Vote to Reintroduce the Gray Wolf
This is the first time voters had a direct say in reintroducing one of the most controversial canids in the United States.
The Woman Behind YeetCoryGardner Talks About the Instagram Account’s Viral Fame
Senator Gardner has, indeed, been yeeted, and even Sentor-elect John Hickenlooper got in on the fun.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Wants Your Help Finding Our Next State Park
Visitors to Colorado’s state parks have hit record numbers this year. Now, you can suggest locations for our next great outdoor recreation area.
Denver’s Average Single-Family Home Price Surpasses $625,000 for First Time
The weather may be cooler, but October’s real estate market was scorching hot, with record-breaking prices and low inventory.
Coloradans Voted in Record Numbers in the 2020 Election
More than 3.2 million ballots have been collected so far, for a turnout rate of about 85 percent. Once every vote is tallied, Colorado could end up with the highest turnout in the country.
Denver Votes to Repeal Pit Bull Ban
The contentious, decades-old ordinance will be replaced with a new licensing system for bully breeds, aimed at encouraging responsible pet ownership.
Coloradans Reject 22-Week Abortion Ban, One of the Election’s Most Expensive Initiatives
With the defeat of Proposition 115 on Tuesday night, representatives from both campaigns say this vote is the start of wider education efforts on abortion in Colorado—and beyond.
John Hickenlooper Defeats Cory Gardner in U.S. Senate Race
Former Governor John Hickenlooper ousted Senator Cory Gardner, who has served one term in the U.S. Senate and entered this race among the most vulnerable Republicans in the country.
Joe Biden Wins Colorado as Presidential Race Intensifies Nationwide
It’s too early to know who will ultimately be the next president, but former Vice President Joe Biden earned a convincing victory in Colorado on Election Day.
Election 2020: All the Results from Colorado As They Come In
The votes are cast, and now we wait. Follow along as we track the results from the statewide races and ballot measures.
More Than 600,000 Coloradans Are Expected to Vote Today as Turnout Soars
While many Coloradans will drop off their completed mail ballots today, polling places are still expected to see an influx of in-person voters.
What We’re Watching in Colorado on Election Day 2020
It’s safe to say that this election will be unlike any other. Here are six storylines we’re watching as the results unfold.
4 Reasons Why We Can’t Wait to Stay at Flying Moon Cabins—Again!
The recently reopened quartet of rental cabins near Idaho Springs oozes charm from every timeworn log beam—and offers a welcome escape to a simpler time.
Why Tipping Is A Broken System For Restaurant Workers—and Owners
Restaurant Olivia’s Austin Carson speaks out on pay equity in the hospitality industry.
Finding Hope and Middle Eastern Flavors at House of Kabob
After 35 years, the family-owned restaurant in University Hills is still going strong.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: 6 International Gear Makers That Moved to Colorado
These international outfitters traveled across the globe to set up their North American headquarters right here in the Centennial State.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Colorado’s Gear Companies
While Coloradans took to the outdoors to fight pandemic-related cabin fever, retail shops and makers tried to keep up with demand.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: Have Niche Outdoor Interests? Shop at These Local Purveyors
From fly-fishing to snowshoeing, Colorado has a gear maker for your special interest.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: Your Guide to the Ultimate Camping Set-Up
We found nine locally made items to make your campsite functional and fun—s’mores and dazzling starry nights not included.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: 4 Items to the Give to Adventurers in Your Life
Whether you need a stocking stuffer or a gift for the kid who has everything, check out what Centennial State makers are offering up this year.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: How the Cancellation of Outdoor Retailer’s Summer Show Affected Gear Makers
For the first time since 1982, the gear industry’s hallmark trade show didn’t go on as planned.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: 3 New Innovators in Centennial State Gear
From glue-free waterproof textiles to retro multipurpose bags, these newbies are making waves in the gear industry.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: How to Start Your Gear Stash From Scratch
Plus three places to pick up new toys.
The Rocky Mountain Gear Guide: Meet the Pioneers of Colorado-Made Gear
These five companies have been making world-class gadgets in the state for decades.
The Creator of Black in Denver on How the Black Lives Matter Protests Impacted Her Work
Narkita Gold’s colorful portrait series, which highlights the uniqueness of the Mile High City’s Black community, took on new purpose following this summer’s demonstrations against police brutality.
Jewelry Designer Jeffery Bolling Dishes on His Favorite Proposal Trends
We asked the owner of Jeffery B Jewelers in Cherry Creek whether he says ‘I Do’ to popular ring designs, wedding traditions, and more.
Will Ranger Participation in Homeless Encampment Sweeps Deteriorate Community Trust?
How Denver park rangers reconcile conflicting roles while fighting the opioid and homelessness crises.
7 Colorado-Made Lotions to Keep Your Skin Happy
All that hand-washing means a good moisturizer is a must. We help you find the perfect one for you.
Let Elita Specialty Market & Kitchen Help You Cook Thanksgiving Dinner
The butcher shop and cafe in Aurora will bring the flavors of Mexico and the Mediterranean to your holiday table.
Can Takeout Beat a Homemade Neopolitan-Style Pie?
5280‘s restaurant critic Scott Mowbray solves a local pizza mystery.
The History of Museums Is More Fraught Than You Might Think
For years, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science unwittingly held stolen carvings. What it took to get them home highlights the complex nature of decolonizing museums.
4 Times Colorado Mascots Proved They’ll Do Anything for the Team
Local mascots make a living doing over-the-top, wacky things. When those attempts at absurdity go awry, well, let’s just say things can get weird.
Living With Depression and Anxiety During a Global Pandemic
With mood disorders on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic, people who’ve never experienced mental health issues are enduring some of the emotions I feel almost every day of my life. Maybe that’s why I can finally tell my story.
The 5280 Guide to Avoiding Consumer Scams
Fraud is up across Colorado. We show you how to protect yourself.
Fraud Alert
A letter from the editor of 5280’s November 2020 issue.
With Wolf Creek Ski Area’s Opening, Colorado’s Ski Season Is Officially Underway
Before it could even begin, the race to see which resort would open first is already over.
Il Porcellino Salumi Turns Five — And Goes National
The award-winning Berkeley-based charcuterie shop and deli has big plans for the future.
7 Free Things to Do This November
With COVID-19 restrictions on the rise once again, it’s hard to find things to look forward to. Here are seven free virtual and in-person events to enjoy this month.
What Does Delisting the Gray Wolf Mean for Colorado?
The Trump administration announced on Thursday that gray wolves will be removed from the endangered species list, just days before Coloradans will vote on reintroducing them in the state.
A New Podcast Brings Listeners to the Scene of the Violin Vigil for Elijah McClain
Created by Soul Stories, the episode seeks to create a visceral reaction in people who weren’t at the protest.
Race to the Bottom: How the 15-Year Gardner–Hickenlooper Relationship Fell Apart
Over nearly two decades, as Cory Gardner and John Hickenlooper ascended in Centennial State politics, they were cordial, collaborative, and maybe even friends. Now, their bloody race for the U.S. Senate might be the death knell of Colorado bipartisanship.
3 New Bakeries Making Killer Loaves, Pastries, and Doughnuts
Satisfy your cravings for sweet and savory treats at Fox and Raven Bakery, Bakery Four, and Good Bread Bake Shop.
New State Restrictions Reduce Denver Restaurant Capacity to 25 Percent
Bars and restaurants can serve 50 or fewer people at a time and must have last call at 10 p.m.
Meet the Team in Charge of Safely Transporting Your Ballot
We rode along with two election judges to see the secure process they use to get ballots from 24-hour drop boxes and polling centers to Denver election headquarters.
Acorn at the Source Has Become Bellota, A Mexican Restaurant With Heart
Chef Manny Barella is cooking the foods of his Monterrey childhood with an eye to ease and elegance.
Denver’s COVID-19 Fight Moves Backward, as City Restores Level 3 Restrictions
Denver is losing ground in its fight against COVID-19. The city is now tightening restrictions and stay-at-home orders may be reinstated in the coming weeks.
Broadway Market Temporarily Shutters for the Winter
Owners cite lost revenue, concern over rising COVID-19 cases, and restrictions that hinder the dine-in experience. They plan to re-open the food hall in March 2021.
How to (Safely!) Host a Dinner Party During a Pandemic
Colorado event-planning pro Virginia Frischkorn shares her top tips for hosting get-togethers this holiday season—if and when local restrictions allow them, that is—and how her new service, Bluebird in a Box, can make them even more festive and stress-free.
Forget Me Not, From the Culinary Creative Team, Opening Soon in Cherry Creek
Beverage director Nicole Lebedevitch, the Culinary Creative leadership team, and developer Matt Joblon are planning a destination cocktail bar for the former flower shop behind the Cherry Cricket.
What Residents of Lauren Boebert’s Hometown Think About Its Conservative Star
Far-right congressional candidate Lauren Boebert has blasted her way onto Colorado’s political scene—does her hometown of Rifle support her?
Weekend Snowstorm and Frigid Air May Help Tame Wildfires
Single digit temperatures and up to a foot of snow will impact the wildfires burning in Colorado. But will it be enough to end them?
Denver Culinary Pros Unite for Get Out the Vote Webinar
Chefs Tajahi Cooke, Caroline Glover, Jesusio Silva, and more will participate in Sunday’s free Mobilize Your Menu to Get Out the Vote webinar.
Why One Boulder Chef Launched Two Ghost Kitchens Inside His Existing Restaurant
Cafe Aion’s Dakota Soifer operates three concepts under one roof: his decade-old Mediterranean restaurant and two takeout-only joints called Brasserie Boulder and Lil Bub’s Family Meal.
How New Biking and Hiking Trails Could Bolster Silverton’s Economy
Mountain towns around the country are increasingly relying on mountain bike trails and other recreation as an economic backbone. Will it work in Silverton?
Wildfire Updates: East Troublesome Fire Grows 100,000 Acres Overnight
Communities have been evacuated, Rocky Mountain National Park is closed, and officials are hoping the East Troublesome fire doesn’t connect with the Cameron Peak fire—the largest in state history.
How One Auto Industry Vet Launched A Brewery In Lakewood
Tom Schurmann launched 6 and 40 Brewery after 43 years of success in other lines of work, including car shop owner and brewing equipment retailer.
More Than One Million People Have Already Voted in Colorado
While it’s still too early to draw conclusions, Coloradans are successfully exercising their right to vote—and the record numbers prove it.
Stock Your Fridge with Canned Cocktails from 3 Colorado Brands
Lee Spirits Co., Abbot & Wallace Distilling, and Cocktail Squad craft highly sippable canned drinks made with local spirits and fresh ingredients.
What Was the Most Consequential Election in Colorado History?
We asked five experts to share their opinions.
The 43rd Denver Film Festival Moves Under the Stars and Online
The Denver Film Festival is a week longer than usual and features both screenings at Red Rocks and a virtual platform that could make it easier to see highly anticipated titles.
Are Wildfires a Natural Solution to Overcrowding on Colorado’s Trails?
It has been a massive (and in some cases tragic) year for Colorado wildfires. One silver lining? Some fragile ecosystems may now be able to recover without human impact.
23 Colorado Breweries Win 26 Medals at the 2020 Great American Beer Festival
More than 8,800 beers from 1,720 breweries across America joined the annual competition, which hosted its first-ever virtual awards ceremony.
Colorado’s Iconic Crystal Mill Needs Your Help
The Crystal Mill Foundation is looking to raise at least $5 million by the end of the year in order to save and preserve this historic landmark.
We’ve Got an “I Voted” Sticker for You
Voting by mail is great and all, but what about those quintessential “I Voted” stickers? Download one here.
L. Ercolani Makes its U.S. Debut at RiNo’s Studio Como
The British brand known for timeless modern furniture is making Denver its North American home.
The 10 Largest Wildfires in Colorado’s History
This year has been a devastating wildfire season as the state’s three largest-ever blazes ignited in the past three months.
How Your 2020 Ballot Choices Could Affect Local Agriculture
Which senatorial candidate you choose and whether you support Proposition 114 will impact Colorado’s small and mid-size farmers and ranchers.
How to Safely Celebrate Halloween During COVID-19
An infectious disease doctor shares dos and don’ts for trick-or-treating, haunted houses, scary movie nights, and more.
The Delicious Mission Behind the Helping Hen Food Truck
Internships on the Work Options for Women rotisserie chicken truck provide disadvantaged community members hands-on training for careers in food service.
7 Halloween Events & Activities to Enjoy (Responsibly) This Year
Lift your spirits with these Halloween events happening around Colorado. Bonus: Denver’s top haunted houses to check out.
Denver Restricts Public and Private Gatherings to a Maximum of 5 People
The new restrictions—which include a stiffer outdoor mask mandate—come as daily cases of COVID-19 in Denver reach a new high.
Larimer Square Is Evolving—And Bound to Be Delicious
Creative entrepreneurs are bringing new life and more drinking and dining spots to the historic downtown block.
Can Polis’ New Outdoor Dining Grant Help Restaurants Survive the Winter?
For owners who have relied on expanded patios to remain in business, the opportunity couldn’t come at a more critical time.
Can High Country News Rewrite the Narrative of the West?
When the editor in chief of the Paonia-based publication resigned last month, he did so with a tweet thread that pondered the magazine’s role in upholding—or dismantling—white supremacy. Can the next iteration of HCN write us into a more inclusive future?
History Colorado Displays Civil War Statue Toppled Outside the State Capitol
Leaders are now in discussion with Colorado’s Native American tribes about filling the vacant spot with a memorial to the Sand Creek Massacre.
Local Culinary Businesses Hit with ADA-Compliance Lawsuits
Owners speak out about complaints, which claim that websites cannot be fully accessed by screen-reading software used by visually impaired individuals.
Next 100 Colorado Is Seeking Stories of BIPOC Experiences on Public Lands
Making the outdoors more inclusive and welcoming for all starts with hearing the stories of people of color, in their own words.
Colorado’s COVID-19 Positivity Rate Exceeds 5 Percent
As another wave of COVID-19 infections hit Colorado, Gov. Jared Polis warned of health and economic repercussions while unveiling a new project to buoy the restaurant industry through the winter.
Bike Theft in Denver Is on a Record-Setting Pace This Year
As crime continues to rise during the pandemic, Denver Police Department data shows a sharp increase in stolen bicycles.
Without Federal Aid, Some Denver Restaurants Are Closing Until At Least Spring 2021
Hibernating and eliminating full-service dining are two approaches to the forthcoming cold, COVID winter.
A New Public Art Installation Celebrates Women in Architecture
The digital artwork on the downtown Daniels & Fisher Tower runs all month—and its organizers hope it inspires a new generation of female architects.
Number Thirty Eight Is A Massive New All-Weather Food and Music Venue in RiNo
You can watch local bands, drink local beverages, and eat international fare from a local chef at the indoor-outdoor spot.
What We Know About the Weekend Shooting in Downtown Denver
It was a violent weekend as dueling protests led to a shooting in downtown Denver. Here are the facts we know so far.
Leaders of Denver Gazette Discuss Their Role in the City’s Media Landscape
The digital-only newspaper launched in Denver during a period of social unrest, amidst a pandemic, and just six weeks before the election.
Dive Into Denver Metro’s South Indian Food Scene
These restaurants go beyond the usual naan and chicken tikka masala, serving delicacies from India’s southern region such as dosa and coconut curries.
38 Colorado Businesses Earn Spots on the 2020 Good Food 100 Restaurants List
The Centennial State had the most participants in the annual program, which honors restaurants and food service companies making a positive impact on their food system.
Mexican Modernism, Including Work from Frida Kahlo & Diego Rivera, Comes to the DAM
More than 150 works are featured in the traveling exhibit, opening October 25 at the Denver Art Museum, which also honors the city’s Hispanic population.
Temaki Den and Made In Japan Are Open at the Source
The Sushi Den team brings aburi nigiri, hand rolls, and sake to their new restaurant in the heart of the RiNo food hall, while the art-and-retail pop up is located in the hotel lobby.
It’s Simple to Vote by Mail in Colorado
Ballots will be arriving in all registered voters’ mailboxes as early as next week. Here’s how to ensure your vote is counted.
Where Are Colorado’s Black Brewers?
Here’s why diversifying the local craft beer industry should be on tap.
11 Festive Things to Do This Fall in Colorado
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall—we hope you do too! Here are 11 events (virtual and in person) to spice up your autumn calendar.
Comal Heritage Food Incubator Turns 4, Sharpens Its Focus
By tightening the restaurant’s lunch menu and providing additional educational opportunities, the program hopes to set up its participants for further success.
Your Guide to Denver’s 2020 Ballot Measures
Denverites will vote on 12 ballot measures, including how the city’s spending will be used to address climate change, the pit bull breed ban, and several initiatives that would attempt to move power from Denver’s current “strong-mayor” system.
Susan Polis Schutz’s New Documentary Gives a Face to Extremism—And Its Victims
In Love Wins Over Hate, the Colorado filmmaker (and mother to Gov. Jared Polis) seeks to understand the roots of prejudice.
