8 Quirky And Unusual Things No One Tells You About Living In Colorado

Welcome to Colorado, where the air is thin, the views are stunning, and you’ll start using words like “local” and “altitude” in casual conversation. Whether you’re hiking in the Rockies, skiing in the winter, or simply enjoying a sunny day with a craft beer in hand, Colorado has a unique charm that will quickly become your new normal. Here are eight things no one tells you about living in Colorado, but you’ll soon find out once you’re here.

The “Altitude” Is Real (And It’ll Kick Your Butt)

Colorado’s high altitude isn’t just something you hear about—it’s something you feel. Whether you’re in Denver (one mile above sea level) or up in the mountains, you’ll notice the effects—shortness of breath, dehydration, and an increased need for caffeine. Don’t be surprised if you get winded just walking up a flight of stairs, or if you start carrying a water bottle everywhere. You’ll eventually adjust, but the altitude will always remind you it’s there.

You’ll Find Yourself Saying “Boulder” Like It’s the Only Place That Matters

Living in Colorado means encountering the strange, wonderful world of Boulder. A town so chill, so health-conscious, and so full of craft breweries that it’ll make you feel like you’re in the middle of an influencer’s dream. The people here are obsessed with yoga, organic food, and biking everywhere (even in the snow). Soon enough, you’ll find yourself saying things like “Oh, I just love Boulder,” or “I need a day trip to Boulder this weekend.” It’s inevitable.

The Weather Will Make You Question Your Wardrobe Choices

One minute, you’re wearing a t-shirt, and the next minute, you’re bundling up in a jacket, scarf, and gloves—welcome to Colorado’s ever-changing weather. You’ll learn to live by the phrase, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” It’s not unusual to experience snow in the morning and sunny skies by the afternoon, so get ready to become a master of layering, and invest in a good jacket (seriously, it’s a must).

You’ll Learn to Talk About “Craft Beer” Like It’s a Sacred Ritual

Colorado is home to hundreds of craft breweries, and once you move here, you’ll start discussing the nuances of IPAs, stouts, and lagers with the same passion that others reserve for wine. You’ll find yourself asking locals for recommendations, going on brewery tours, and even throwing around terms like “hazy” or “sessionable” like you’ve been a beer connoisseur your whole life. Prepare for your weekend plans to revolve around tasting flights and trying the latest seasonal brews.

Hiking Will Become a Way of Life (And You’ll Get Really Into It)

Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or someone who just likes a good walk in the park, hiking will become an obsession in Colorado. With thousands of trails, from beginner-friendly walks to challenging climbs, you’ll quickly find yourself hiking on weekends and working on your “summit selfies.” Soon enough, your weekends will be booked with hikes to explore the stunning mountain views and get your nature fix, all while trying to find the perfect pair of hiking boots (don’t forget sunscreen).

You’ll Get Really Good at Talking About “Legalization” (Even If You Don’t Partake)

Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, and whether or not you partake, it’s part of the culture. You’ll find yourself having casual conversations about the latest cannabis-related products or the best dispensaries in town. If you’re not into it, that’s perfectly fine, but it will definitely come up at some point. People in Colorado are extremely laid-back about it, and honestly, you’ll get used to it—quickly.

Skiing Will Become a Competitive Sport (Even for Beginners)

If you move to Colorado and don’t ski, well…you’re going to hear about it. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, Coloradoans take their skiing seriously. Before long, you’ll find yourself booking ski trips for every winter weekend, trying to learn the difference between a bunny hill and a black diamond, and braving the cold to conquer the slopes. And even if you never truly master the art of skiing, you’ll definitely learn to talk about it like you’re a part of the Colorado ski culture.

You’ll Start to Use the Word “Eco” Like It’s a Pre-Requisite for Life

Coloradans are eco-friendly to the core—everything from composting to driving electric cars, and the idea of living sustainably is built into the culture. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself using “eco-friendly” as an excuse to buy yet another reusable water bottle or convince your friends to carpool to brunch. You’ll start researching sustainable products and patting yourself on the back when you choose biodegradable bags over plastic ones. You’ll also develop a guilty pleasure for “zero-waste” stores, where every product is perfectly eco-conscious.

Living in Colorado is about embracing the outdoors, getting into craft beer culture, and constantly adjusting to the altitude. Whether you’re hiking a mountain, discussing the best local brews, or just trying to catch your breath at 10,000 feet, life here is an adventure, full of surprises and quirky habits. Just remember to layer up, try every beer you can, and enjoy the fact that you get to live in one of the most beautiful places in the country—because in Colorado, adventure is always around the next corner.

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