Active City Spotlight: Boulder

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Go west and you have mountains. Go east and you have flat farmland. Go north and you have rolling hills.

Go on a run and you might get passed by ultramarathon legend Scott Jurek. Go for a bike ride and you might see Ironman legend Dave Scott.

There's a reason that Boulder, Colorado is the mecca of endurance sports. The challenge you're looking for—climbing, flatlands, whatever—isn't far away.

"I think that's the appeal for all the athletes to come here," said Jimmy Archer, a triathlete and coach who lives in Boulder.

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All the athletes. Like Jurek and Scott. Ironman champions Mirinda Carfrae and Craig Alexander. Pro cyclists like Taylor Phinney. Swimming champions like Christine Jennings. The list of elite endurance athletes who spend at least part of the year in Boulder is almost overwhelming.

Boulder is a town full of scenery and activity, about 30 miles northwest of Denver at the edge of the Rocky Mountains. It sits about a mile above sea level and is the home of the University of Colorado.

But for the active crowd, know that Boulder welcomes you with open arms. Just make sure you pack your workout clothes.

Whether it's hiking the Flatirons, running in the mountains or cycling through the rural farmlands surrounding the town, Boulder truly has something for everyone. Here is your ultimate guide to getting Active in one of Colorado's most iconic towns.

More: How to Stay Fit While Traveling