Bow Mar, Colorado, is a small town 12 miles southwest of Denver, straddling Arapahoe and Jefferson counties. It developed as an agricultural area in the late 19th century before incorporating in 1958. The town's name combines those of pioneers John Marston and Joseph Bowles. Bow Mar offers a tranquil setting with prairie-style homes and extensive recreational facilities, including a private lake. It maintains a strong family-oriented community life, while its natural surroundings and urban amenities offer a unique living experience, inviting deeper exploration.
Expert Highlights
- Situated 12 miles southwest of Denver, between Arapahoe and Jefferson counties.
- Incorporated in 1958, named after farmers John Marston and Joseph Bowles.
- Developed from an agricultural area to a residential oasis.
- Homes feature Frank Lloyd Wright's prairie-style architecture.
- Offers recreational facilities like a private lake and beach.
Location and History
The Town of Bow Mar, situated approximately 12 miles southwest of downtown Denver, serves as a residential oasis between Arapahoe and Jefferson counties in Colorado.
Initially developed as an agricultural area in the late 19th century, it supplied food to nearby Littleton and Denver. The town was officially incorporated in 1958, adopting its name from two pioneering farmers, John Marston and Joseph Bowles.
Today, Bow Mar offers a peaceful community environment with single-family homes, often echoing Frank Lloyd Wright's prairie-style architecture, and features recreational activities around Bow Mar Lake. Similar to hidden gems in Kiowa, Colorado, Bow Mar maintains its small-town charm while preserving its rich agricultural heritage.
Community Life
Building on its foundation as a peaceful residential oasis with a rich history, Bow Mar's community life is characterized by a strong sense of family orientation and exclusive recreational opportunities.
Residents enjoy access to a private 100-acre lake, beach facilities, tennis courts, and clubs like the Bow Mar Yacht Club. These amenities foster a close-knit community, with events such as the Summer Sunset Concert Series encouraging neighborly interaction.
The town's governance style, featuring active participation, further enhances this sense of community.
Like vibrant Colorado cities, Bow Mar prioritizes quality of life through careful community planning and recreational activities.
Local Amenities and Attractions
As Bow Mar residents take advantage of the serene surroundings and exclusive recreational facilities, they also benefit from being strategically situated near a variety of local amenities and attractions.
The neighborhood is surrounded by parks and open spaces, including Bow Mar Lake, which offers swimming, fishing, and boating activities. Nearby attractions like the Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve and the Mary Carter Greenway Trail provide opportunities for hiking and cycling.
Residents can also enjoy shopping at the Aspen Grove Shopping Center and dining at local restaurants like Smokin Fins.
Residential Features and Demographics**
Residents of Bow Mar, Colorado, live in a unique blend of luxury and community spirit, surrounded by the tranquility of nature yet strategically located near urban amenities.
The town's residential features include spacious lots and mid-century modern homes, with many properties featuring unique architectural charm.
Demographically, Bow Mar has a population of approximately 996 residents, mainly U.S.-born citizens (95.48%), and a median age of 46.5 years.
The community is largely owner-occupied, with 97.15% of housing as owner-occupied units.
Expert Final Thoughts
Bow Mar, Colorado, boasts a harmonious blend of rural tranquility and modern amenities. Incorporated in 1958, it spans both Arapahoe and Jefferson counties, featuring around 300 homes on one-acre lots. The community offers a serene lakeside setting, year-round recreational activities, and a strong sense of community. Its history reflects a shift from agricultural lands to luxury residences, influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural styles. With a population under 900, Bow Mar remains a charming and exclusive residential haven.
