Highlands Ranch, Colorado, is a master-planned community spanning 22,000 acres in northwest Douglas County, home to about 103,000 residents. Founded in 1981, it offers quality living, family-friendly environments, and robust outdoor activities. The Highlands Ranch Metro District manages infrastructure and services. Residents enjoy well-rated schools, extensive parks, and trails, complemented by urban amenities via proximity to Denver. For a deeper look into its vibrant lifestyle and attractions, exploring further provides additional insights.
Expert Highlights
- Highlands Ranch is a 22,000-acre master-planned community in northwest Douglas County.
- It was established in 1981, now housing about 103,000 residents.
- The community offers over 70 miles of hiking trails and 8,200 acres of backcountry wilderness.
- Highlands Ranch features high-rated schools within the Douglas County School District.
- Residents enjoy a mix of suburban tranquility and easy access to urban amenities like Denver.
Community Overview
Highlands Ranch, Colorado, is a master-planned community encompassing approximately 22,000 acres in the northwest part of Douglas County. Established in 1981, it has a population of about 103,000 residents and offers a high quality of life with vast open spaces and recreational facilities.
The community is maintained by the Highlands Ranch Metro District, providing essential services such as road construction, parks maintenance, and water management. It is an upper-middle-class area known for its safety and family-friendly environment. Just a short drive away, residents can explore the charming Wheat Ridge area for additional recreational activities and community events.
Outdoor Activities and Amenities
Residents of the Denver metropolitan area are increasingly drawn to outdoor activities, particularly those offered in nearby communities like this one, which boasts an impressive array of recreational options.
Denver residents flock to nearby communities for diverse outdoor activities.
Highlands Ranch enhances quality of life with diverse outdoor pursuits. Key activities include:
- Hiking Trails: Over 70 miles available for walking and biking.
- Backcountry Wilderness: An 8,200-acre conservation space.
- Chatfield Reservoir: Offers kayaking and fishing.
- Golfing: Scenic courses for golf enthusiasts.
- Pickleball and Disc Golf: Recreational sports in local parks.
Similar to nearby Parker, Colorado, the area provides extensive outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Education and Community Life
Beyond its natural attractions, this community's quality of life is further enhanced by a robust educational system and vibrant community interactions.
Highlands Ranch is served by the Douglas County School District No. RE-1, which boasts high-performing schools like Rock Canyon High and STEM School Highlands Ranch. These institutions provide excellent academic foundations, with STEM School ranked among the top public high schools in Colorado.
The community's strong educational focus supports a dynamic lifestyle that attracts families seeking a well-rounded environment.
Recent discussions regarding potential school closures highlight efforts to optimize educational resources efficiently.
Living in Highlands Ranch**
Living in Highlands Ranch involves managing a delicate balance of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of individuals and families.
Key aspects of living in Highlands Ranch include:
- High-Rated Schools: Excellent public schools in the Douglas County School District.
- Community Facilities: Access to recreation centers and open spaces.
- Natural Beauty: Scenic landscapes and access to parks like Chatfield State Park.
- Cost of Living: Higher than the national average, with a median home value of $641,995.
- Urban Access: Easy commute to Denver, offering cultural and employment opportunities.
Expert Final Thoughts
Highlands Ranch, Colorado, stands out as a master-planned community, offering a high quality of life with extensive recreational and educational opportunities. The area boasts over 2,500 acres of open spaces and 8,200 acres of conservation area, providing ample outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding. Excellent schools in the Douglas County School District contribute to the community's appeal, along with numerous cultural and social events managed by the Highlands Ranch Community Association.
