5280 Magazine

Founded in 1993, 5280 is the largest local magazine in Colorado. The magazine's stories often make national headlines, and since 2005 5280 has been nominated for four National Magazine Awards. Get 5280 Magazine digital subscription today.

5280 Magazine

Replacing Black Gold

DAVID WILLIAMS • Freelance photographer

Fresh Picks

Puff, Puff, Passed

Love Stories

Back On Track • For one local writer, a forthcoming guidebook was more than an assignment—it was physical therapy.

APRÈS HIKE • Good pints, delectable comfort food, and scenic campsites can be as hard to find as first-rate trails, so we had Berman dish on his favorites.

Safe Spaces • A local design firm creates sensory rooms that help neurodivergent kids thrive.

The COVID-19 Tested • The Colorado freshmen who arrived on university campuses in fall 2020 encountered a very different environment than previous generations. With the COVID-19 class due to graduate next month, we asked four of them how the pandemic affected what were supposed to be the best years of their lives.

Rising Stars

Questions & Answers • At Hey Kiddo, chef-owner Kelly Whitaker wants to ignite your curiosity with a menu injected with sustainable ingredients and global flair.

JUST FOR YOU • If you can’t figure out what makes Ok Yeah’s cocktails taste so beguiling, it’s probably because they’re crafted with something unconventional like beef tallow. The intention behind this bar inside Hey Kiddo is “full utilization,” or thinking of typical throwaways, such as leftover pickle juice, as ingredients ready for a second life, says Caroline Clark, director of beverage and hospitality. Here’s how to enjoy the perfect sip.

Pipe Dream • Why has it taken more than 60 years for a planned pipeline to bring clean water to residents of the lower Arkansas River Valley?

HEY, YOU GOTTA SEE THIS! • Colorado is world famous for its natural landmarks, but our state also boasts its fair share of quirky human-made destinations. Here, 15 roadside attractions worth taking a detour to experience.

COLORADO GATORS REPTILE PARK

OUT OF THIS WORLD • An ET-curious traveler spent the night at the San Luis Valley’s UFO Watchtower.

LOFTY AMBITIONS • Almost 100 years ago, the World’s Wonder View Tower began dazzling passing motorists. Its new stewards hope the oddity stands for at least 100 more.

BISHOP CASTLE

“RITA THE ROCK PLANTER”

DRESSING THE PART • In the foothills between Fort Collins and Loveland, Masonville Mercantile is an unexpected treasure trove of period costumes and accessories.

DINNER & A SHOW • A 5280 editor’s Tripadvisor-style, hot and cold takes on three classic Colorado roadside restaurants whose wacky surrounds are just as much of a draw as the food.

TINY TOWN & RAILROAD

CRESTONE ZIGGURAT

STASHED AWAY • Four off-the-beaten-path—or just offbeat—museums scattered across the state.

GOING GRAY • Colorado’s 65-and-older population is exploding—a reality that has spurred local governments, educational institutions, health care providers, and nonprofit organizations to research solutions for common problems and find novel ways to support Centennial Staters as they age.

ANSWERING THE CALL

Beyond Generations

A WIDE REACH

STAYING SPRY • Ten out of 10 doctors agree: Staying active as you get older is a key to aging well. Coloradans are no strangers to outdoor recreation, but with each wrinkle, skiing those black diamonds can get more difficult. That’s why we asked three medical professionals how you might accommodate your changing body without sacrificing your favorite activity. (Make sure to consult your doc first, though.)

All In One Care •...