Long before we were asked to ‘shelter in place’ due to the threat of Coronavirus, the Surface Creek Valley in western Colorado has been a quiet refuge for families, retirees and individuals wishing to escape the busy and crowded lifestyle of metropolitan areas. Whether you’re looking to recreate or relax, retire or raise a family, a home in the Cedaredge area provides time to enjoy all the wonderful things that the area has to offer in a relaxed and safe lifestyle. The Western Slope way of life appeals to an increasing number of new residents each year. Much of the appeal comes down to a brief list of attributes: affordable living, year-round temperate climate, proximity to outdoor recreation, access to locally grown food and wine, clean air and water, and great healthcare and schools. If you’re considering a move to the Surface Creek Valley, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Affordable Living
In Surface Creek Valley and Delta County in general, the cost of living is low. Most people considering a move to the area are able to buy land and/or a house for less than their property in a metro area is worth. Often, new residents are able to use equity from their previous house sale for a large down payment and low monthly payments on a nice house in this area. That affordability runs through to services, restaurants and retail establishments in Delta County.
Year-Round Temperate Climate
The Surface Creek valley boasts a mild 4-season climate and is a pleasant place to live year-round. Many residents point to the extended growing season as one of the main draws to the area. The Surface Creek Valley is also protected from most natural disasters. It’s certainly a draw for those looking to move from areas that are prone to earthquake, tornado, hurricane or hailstorms. Wildfires are the main threat to this area, with the major potential being on public lands, rather than housing communities protected by fire mitigation.
Location, Location, Location
With quick access to the Grand Mesa National Forest and public lands all around, the Surface Creek area has incredible access to outdoor activities. Hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, road and mountain biking, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, rafting, boating, golfing, horseback riding, kayaking and more. Living on the western slope of Colorado also provides easy access to many national parks and monuments. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and the Colorado National Monument are within an hour drive of the area with Canyonlands, Arches, Mesa Verde and Capital Reef National Parks being within a day’s drive. It’s common to have a hiking or biking trail to yourself or see only a car or two on the drive back from the local ski area. Outdoor access and freedom on the trails are huge benefits to living here. Cedaredge also has easy access to the conveniences of larger communities like Montrose and Grand Junction.
Local Economy
From orchards to farms, ranches to wineries, the Surface Creek area produces an abundance of fresh, locally grown food products and wine. Home to the largest organic producing region in the state, Delta County provides visitors and locals alike with clean, sustainably-grown produce, meats, eggs, and more. In summer months, it’s not uncommon to travel a county road and see coolers with eggs for sale, apples and peaches by the box or local green chilies fresh out of the roaster.
Blessed with clean air and water, this valley provides a safe and sustainable way of life for locals and visitors alike. The Surface Creek lifestyle is laid back and the locals take time to appreciate all that Western Colorado has to offer: great weather, delicious food and boundless outdoor activities. Whether you’re considering relocating to the Surface Creek area or just visiting, you’re sure to appreciate its unique appeal and fall in love with the Western Slope way of life.
