Boulder is the 11th most densely inhabited city in the U.S. state of Colorado. It is the county seat and the most populous city of Boulder County. The city of Boulder is situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains foothills and sits at an elevation of 5430 feet or 1655 m. Boulder is situated 40 km or 25 miles northwest of Denver, in the state of Colorado. The 2010 census listed the population of Boulder City at 97,385. The USA Census Bureau showed that for the Boulder Metropolitan Statistical Area, the population was 293,161.
The city of Boulder has the reputation as being amongst the most liberal cities within the state. It is well-known due to its Western history and has the status of being a destination of choice for hippies in the late 1960s. It is the home of the University of Colorado, the state's largest university. The city of Boulder often acquires top rankings in quality of life, health, art, education and well being.
Until the latter parts of the 1850's, the Boulder Valley was mostly settled by Native American Groups like for instance the Southern Arapaho tribe. The very first non-native settlers were actually gold prospectors, who arrived around 1858, when the area of Boulder was part of the Nebraska Territory. The Territory of Colorado was created in the year 1861 by the U.S. Congress. During the year 1871, Boulder, that was then called Boulder City, became incorporated as a city. The University of Colorado at Boulder opened five years later in 1876 and Colorado achieved its statehood. Tourism and mining were two of the cities principal businesses through the early part of the 20th century.
The city of Boulder hosts various attractions and activities for various ages, with many recreational, outdoor, indoor, cultural and festive things to take part in. There are more than 31,000 acres of open space, and nature preserves in the region. This provides many opportunities for hiking, rock climbing and biking. Over 120 miles of trails vary in size and difficulty, from the technically difficult to the simple. The Boulder Creek Path is a well known trail, 16 miles long. It provides a terrific place for walking, in-line skating and biking. The Eldorado Canyon is located 6 miles south of Boulder and is home to world class rock-climbing. Estes Park is located one hour away and is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The main economic sectors within the region are found in technology and science. In addition, the city has become recognized for its academic resources and economic diversity. There area has developed electronic, high-technology and aerospace businesses with the assistance of the research carried out at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Numerous professionals and college graduates are attracted to Boulder's labor market due to the university and the numerous research and technology oriented businesses.
There are a few satellite and communication research centers and firms in the local economy along with many defense contractors as well. The city's technology sector has flourished and by doing so, has increased the manufacturing performed in the city. The economy is likewise powered by education, the government and healthcare.