Things To Do
in Nederland

Nederland, Colorado is a charming mountain town located just 16 miles above the city of Boulder. Nestled at an elevation of 8,230 feet, it offers stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Known for its vibrant arts scene and eclectic culture, Nederland provides visitors with a unique blend of outdoor adventures and local festivities.

The town is particularly famous for its annual festivals, including the Frozen Dead Guy Days and the Nederland Music Festival.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Town
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at The Blue Owl, known for its delicious pancakes and local coffee. Afterward, stroll through the town's charming streets and check out local shops and galleries.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Barker Reservoir for a scenic hike and enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the picturesque views. Spend some time exploring the historic Carousel of Happiness, a beautifully restored carousel.

evening
:

Dine at the Nederland Brewing Company for a taste of local craft beers and hearty pub fare. Wrap up your day with a live music performance at one of the local venues.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast at The Last Stand, head out for a morning of hiking on the trails around the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The trails offer various difficulty levels and stunning nature views.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local food truck and then take a leisurely drive to the scenic Peak to Peak Highway for breathtaking mountain vistas. Stop at various viewpoints for photo opportunities.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at The Stagecoach Restaurant, where you can savor traditional dishes and enjoy a cozy atmosphere. Consider a night stroll to see the stars in this low-light pollution area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$4-$6
🚌Local Bus Fare$1.50
🏕️Camping Fee$20-$30 per night
🏔️Hiking PermitFree

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culture and arts scene.
  • Friendly, small-town atmosphere.
  • Limited dining options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher elevation may affect visitors not acclimated to altitude.

Places to Visit in Nederland

Visit one of these nice places.

Barker Reservoir

A picturesque reservoir surrounded by mountains, perfect for capturing reflections and wildlife.

Indian Peaks Wilderness

Stunning landscapes with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

The Carousel of Happiness

A beautifully restored carousel that offers whimsical photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nederland

Nederland offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its mountain town charm, combining local ingredients with unique flavors.

Nederland Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rocky Mountain Oysters

A local delicacy made from bull testicles, often breaded and fried.

Must-Try!

Bison Burger

A leaner and flavorful alternative to beef, served with local toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nederland Farmers Market

Open on Wednesdays during summer, featuring local produce, crafts, and food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nederland experiences a highland climate with cold winters and mild summers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summers are pleasantly warm, averaging in the 70s°F. Rain is common in the summer months, while snowfall can be significant in winter, making it a great destination for snow sports.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Nature

Keep trails clean and adhere to Leave No Trace principles while enjoying the outdoors.

Greet Locals

A friendly wave or smile to fellow residents and visitors is appreciated.

Support Local Businesses

Shopping at local stores and dining at local restaurants fosters community spirit.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nederland is generally safe, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be cautious of wildlife encounters, especially in the wilderness areas, and ensure they are prepared for changing weather conditions when hiking.

Tipping in Nederland

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A standard 15-20% tip is expected in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, but it’s good to carry cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect melting snow, blooming wildflowers, and mild temperatures, making it ideal for hiking and biking.

Summer

Warm weather with plenty of outdoor activities available, including festivals and concerts.

Fall

Enjoy colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow, great for winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Nightlife Guide

Nederland at Night

The nightlife in Nederland is laid-back and community-oriented, with live music at venues like The Caribou Room and The Stagecoach Restaurant. You'll find a variety of genres from bluegrass to rock, often featuring local artists. Many bars serve craft beer and cocktails, creating a relaxed atmosphere for socializing among locals and visitors.

Hiking in Nederland

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lake Isabelle Trail

A moderate 5.5-mile round-trip hike offering stunning views of Lake Isabelle and surrounding peaks.

Royal Arch Trail

A challenging 3.2-mile hike that rewards with breathtaking views from the iconic arch formation.

Airports

How to reach Nederland by plane.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Located about 65 miles from Nederland, this major airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the closest option for air travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nederland is a small town, making it very walkable. The downtown area is compact, with shops, restaurants, and attractions within a short walking distance. Sidewalks are available, and the town is generally pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to enjoy the local scenery on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals are attracted to Nederland for its outdoor lifestyle and artistic community.

Retirees

The town is also home to a significant number of retirees who appreciate the tranquil mountain environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Popular winter sports in the nearby mountains, with several ski resorts within a short drive.

Mountain Biking

A favored activity during the warmer months, with trails catering to various skill levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nederland is typically light, especially outside of peak tourist season. Public transportation options are limited, but there are local shuttles during the winter ski season. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles for travel to and from surrounding attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nederland.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in the summer markets.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available in most cafes and restaurants, but it’s advisable to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Nederland is limited, with a small clinic available for basic medical needs. For more serious health issues, residents and visitors typically travel to nearby towns such as Boulder, which has a larger hospital and medical facilities.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide