If you’re thinking about moving to Evergreen, Colorado—but worried about the commute to Denver—let’s set the record straight. Because truthfully? Commuting from Evergreen to Denver isn’t that bad. In fact, it might just be the most peaceful, scenic, and downright enjoyable commute in the entire Denver metro area.
Whether you’re heading into downtown Denver a few days a week or working a hybrid schedule with occasional in-person meetings, this drive is more of a perk than a pain. Here’s why:
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1. You Get to Live in the Colorado Mountains—Without Giving Up the City
Let’s start with the obvious: Evergreen isn’t some remote ski town hours away. It’s just 30 to 45 minutes from downtown Denver, depending on where you’re headed and which route you take. But unlike most Denver suburbs, Evergreen gives you space, trees, trails, and actual wildlife—not just a strip mall and a chain grocery store.
Wake up to mountain views, not honking horns. Enjoy your morning coffee on a sunny deck while watching deer stroll past. And yes, it’s as magical as it sounds.
2. The Commute Is Actually Beautiful—No, Seriously
Whether you’re cruising down I-70 east, winding through Highway 74, or taking the secret weapon that is Highway 285, your drive is gorgeous. You’ll trade traffic lights and construction zones for scenic canyons, towering evergreens, and wide-open skies. It’s like your own personal nature documentary every morning.
Pro tip: Highway 285 through Conifer and Morrison is a great alternative route, especially during peak ski season or when I-70 gets backed up. Locals love it for
r its reliability and smoother winter driving. Plus, it brings you into the southwest Denver metro area near Lakewood and Littleton—perfect if you’re headed that direction.
3. It’s Podcast Heaven (or Audiobook Nirvana)
Let’s talk real life. For most of us millennials, the commute is less about the drive and more about what we can do with that time. A 35-minute ride? That’s an entire Up First episode, or a good chunk of The Daily, Armchair Expert, or whatever your current obsession is.
You’re not wasting time—you’re making time. Think of it as your built-in buffer between work and home life. And honestly, that’s kind of priceless.
4. Evergreen Makes Work-Life Balance Way Easier
Forget fighting for weekend parking at a Cherry Creek trailhead or waiting in line for brunch in LoDo. When you live in Evergreen, your weekend is already here. You’ve got hiking trails, paddleboarding at Evergreen Lake, mountain biking, skiing, breweries, and local boutiques—all within minutes of home.
After a day in the office, you’re not stuck on a couch with takeout. You’re lighting a fire, cracking a beer, and watching the sun set over snow-dusted peaks. It’s the Colorado lifestyle, fully realized.
5. Hybrid Work? Evergreen Was Built for It
Most jobs in 2025 are at least partially remote. That makes Evergreen the perfect launch pad: far enough from the city for quiet and space, but close enough to hit a meeting in LoHi or Capitol Hill when needed.
With reliable high-speed internet, home offices with actual windows (imagine that!), and just the right amount of social distraction (aka elk in your driveway), Evergreen nails the work-from-home vibe. When you do head into the city, you’re not grinding it out five days a week—you’re popping in with purpose.
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6. Tips to Make Your Evergreen to Denver Commute a Breeze
Here’s how to make the most of commuting from the foothills:
• 🚗 Drive smart: AWD or 4WD is your friend. Invest in good tires for winter.
• 🕒 Leave early: Try heading out before 7:30 a.m. for a smooth ride.
• 🗺️ Use alternate routes: Know when to skip I-70 and take Highway 285. It’s a reliable route that often gets less traffic and fewer delays.
• ☕ Fuel up locally: Grab coffee at Bivouac or Muddy Buck before you hit the road.
• 🎧 Curate your car time: Think of your commute as your own mobile meditation studio, concert venue, or true crime bunker.
Final Thoughts: Evergreen to Denver Is a Power Move
If you’re on the fence about moving to Evergreen because of the drive into Denver, don’t be. This is one of the best Denver mountain town commutes out there—scenic, manageable, and 100% worth it for the lifestyle you get in return.
You’ll trade concrete for trees, congestion for calm, and apartment living for a life that actually feels like you’re living. Whether you’re commuting daily or just popping into the office a few times a week, Evergreen, CO is closer to Denver than you think—and a whole lot more rewarding.