Evergreen, Colorado: A Scenic Foothills Community in Jefferson County
Nestled in the Front Range foothills of western Jefferson County, Evergreen, Colorado, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Located just 19 miles west of Denver, this unincorporated community serves as a peaceful retreat for many, functioning largely as a bedroom community for those commuting to the Denver metropolitan area.
Named for the lush evergreen trees that surround the area, Evergreen has evolved from its early settlement in 1859 into a vibrant census-designated place (CDP). Whether you are drawn to its historic downtown, its expansive park systems, or its recreational waters, Evergreen provides a quintessential Colorado experience.
Key Facts
- Location: Jefferson County, Colorado, within the Denver-Aurora-Centennial Metropolitan Statistical Area.
- Elevation: 7,162 feet (2,183 meters).
- Population: 9,307 (as of the 2020 Census).
- Climate: Humid continental (Dfb), featuring mild summers and wet weather year-round.
- Primary Recreation: Evergreen Lake and various Jefferson County Open Space parks.
History and Heritage
The history of the Evergreen area dates back to 1859, when it was first settled in what was then the Territory of Kansas. The community's identity is deeply tied to its natural environment, a fact honored by the Colorado Blue Spruce Monument, which commemorates the Colorado state tree.
The local post office has been a fixture of the community since July 17, 1876. Over the decades, Evergreen has grown from a frontier settlement into a well-established residential area, maintaining its connection to the landscape through its many historic sites and parks.
Geography and Climate
Evergreen encompasses a total area of approximately 11.6 square miles, with the vast majority being land. A significant portion of the local geography is defined by water, specifically the 53 acres of water that make up much of the Evergreen Reservoir.
The Alpine Climate
Under the Köppen Climate Classification system, Evergreen is categorized as having a humid continental climate (abbreviated as "Dfb"). This means the region experiences mild summers and receives precipitation throughout the year. Winters can be quite cold, with record lows reaching as low as -38°F (-39°C), and the area receives an average of 80.8 inches of snowfall annually.
Recreation and Local Attractions
For outdoor enthusiasts, Evergreen is a premier destination. The area is surrounded by thousands of acres of protected land within the Denver Mountain Parks and the Jefferson County Open Space park systems. Notable parks include Alderfer/Three Sisters, Lair o' the Bear, and Mount Falcon Park.
Evergreen Lake
Created in 1927 by damming Bear Creek, Evergreen Lake is a central recreational focal point. The lake offers diverse seasonal activities:
- Winter: Ice skating is popular from mid-December through late March. The lake hosts the annual "Skate the Lake" celebration on New Year's Eve and the Evergreen Pond Hockey Championship in early January.
- Summer: The lake and its surrounding Lake House serve as a hub for community gatherings and water-based recreation.
Community Profile and Infrastructure
As an unincorporated community, Evergreen is governed by Jefferson County. Services such as road maintenance, planning, zoning, and law enforcement are provided by the county, while the Evergreen Metropolitan District manages water and sewer services. Fire protection and emergency medical response are handled by Evergreen Fire/Rescue.
Demographics and Education
According to the 2020 Census, the population of the Evergreen CDP is 9,307, with a median age of 47.1 years. The community is predominantly White (90.7%), with a diverse mix of households. Education in the area is primarily served by the Jefferson County Public Schools, including Evergreen High School, Evergreen Middle School, and several elementary schools such as Wilmot and Bergen Valley.
Transportation
Access to Evergreen is primarily provided via two major roads:
- State Highway 74: Runs from I-70 through Bergen Park and downtown Evergreen, eventually connecting to State Highway 8.
- County Highway 73: Connects downtown Evergreen to U.S. Highway 285 in Conifer.
Public transit is available through the Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD), which offers regional routes to downtown Denver and a local "Call-n-Ride" service.
Summary of Evergreen, Colorado
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Area | 11.605 sq mi |
| Elevation | 7,162 ft |
| ZIP Codes | 80439, 80437 |
| Time Zone | MST (UTC−07:00) |
| Primary County | Jefferson County |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like in Evergreen, Colorado?
Evergreen has a humid continental climate, characterized by mild summers and wet weather throughout the year, including significant snowfall in the winter months.
How is Evergreen, Colorado governed?
Because it is an unincorporated community, Evergreen is governed by Jefferson County. Specific services like water and sewer are managed by the Evergreen Metropolitan District.
What are the main ways to get to Evergreen?
The area is accessible via State Highway 74 and County Highway 73. Additionally, the Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides bus services to the area.
What are the most popular recreational activities in Evergreen?Popular activities include ice skating and pond hockey at Evergreen Lake during the winter, as well as hiking and exploring the various Jefferson County Open Space parks.
Is Evergreen a mountain town or a suburb?
Evergreen is located in the Front Range foothills and functions largely as a bedroom community, meaning many residents commute to nearby Denver for work.