🌲 Foot of the Mountain Motel: A Nostalgic Stay in the Heart of Boulder, Colorado

Foot for the Mountain Motel, Boulder Colorado

Because sometimes, the places you don’t plan for, end up being the ones you’ll always remember.

It wasn’t supposed to be a Boulder trip.

I was actually heading to Steamboat Springs to visit a friend, but something in me whispered, slow down, make a stop, see Boulder. I’ve always felt drawn to this town, tucked between the mountains and the sky. It’s been one of my dream places to call home, and this felt like the right time to see if my heart still felt that pull.

So, on a whim, I booked a flight to Denver and decided to spend a couple of days in Boulder before continuing north. What I didn’t realize was that my timing couldn’t have been more chaotic. It was Parents’ Weekend at the University of Colorado and there was a big football game in town. Nearly every hotel was booked solid, and the few that weren’t booked, were charging triple their usual rate.

Just when I was ready to give up, I stumbled across a little place called Foot of the Mountain Motel. I’d never heard of it before, but the name caught my attention. Something about it sounded peaceful, maybe even a little poetic. I booked it without thinking twice, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those beautiful surprises that make travel so rewarding.

🏡 A Step Back in Time

Foot of the Mountain isn’t your typical modern stay. It’s a piece of Boulder’s history. Built in 1934, this family-owned motel has been welcoming travelers for almost a century. The moment I arrived, I felt like I’d stepped into a simpler time. One where the journey mattered more than the destination.

The check-in office is small and full of character, the kind of place where the person behind the counter greets you with a genuine smile and not a rehearsed script. Within minutes, I had my red key in hand and a map of nearby trails. That little gesture said it all, this is a place for explorers and adventurers like me.

💫 Cozy, Retro, and Full of Heart

My room felt more like a tiny mountain cabin than a motel. The warm wood tones, the soft glow of the lamps, the little retro details. A red rotary phone on the desk, a matching red mini fridge, it all made me smile. It was simple, clean, and full of charm.

The bed was surprisingly comfortable (I slept like a rock), and the bathroom, though small, was spotless. I’ll admit, I’m not a big fan of shower curtains. That was my only discontent. I’m a “give me a door” kind of person, but that’s just me. Nevertheless, the shower was also clean.

In the morning, I wandered over to their continental breakfast, which felt just right: bagels, oatmeal, pastries, cereal, and plenty of coffee. They also keep a self-serve station with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available all day. I loved that I was able to refill my water bottle throughout the day. It’s such a small thing, but it saved me from buying bottled water and felt so thoughtful.

🛏 A Lucky Last-Minute Find

I got lucky. It was the last room available that weekend. Honestly, it felt meant to be.

Normally, Foot of the Mountain is one of the more affordable stays in Boulder, with rooms usually ranging from around $100 to $180 per night, depending on the season. Each one is different, which adds to the charm. You can tell they’ve put care into making every space feel a little unique.

I stayed in the Cozy Queen Room, and that’s exactly what it was: cozy, quiet, and perfect after a long day of exploring. The red accents, the cabin vibe, the warmth, it was exactly what I needed that weekend.

🌄 Location, Location, Location

You can’t beat the location. The motel really does sit at the foot of the mountains. You can walk to Boulder Creek, hike Flagstaff Mountain, or head straight into Chautauqua Park and the Flatirons. For hikers, it’s a dream basecamp.

If you want food or shopping, Pearl Street Mall is just a short drive (or walk, if you’re feeling ambitious). You get the best of both worlds. Quiet nights under the pines and quick access to everything Boulder has to offer.

And here’s something I didn’t expect: they also have Ember & Ice Mobile Saunas on-site. These handcrafted cedar saunas offer a private Nordic-style heat session right at the motel, complete with an optional cold plunge. I didn’t have time to try it, but it’s definitely on my list for next time.

❤️ Final Thoughts

What I love about places like Foot of the Mountain Motel is how they remind you that not everything has to be fancy to feel special. Sometimes, it’s the small details, the creak of the old floors, the scent of pine in the air, the quiet hum of Boulder Creek at night, that make you feel grounded and grateful to be exactly where you are.

If you love nature, simplicity, and that nostalgic “road trip” charm, this is your spot. It’s cozy, comfortable, and full of soul, just like Boulder itself.

I came for a short stopover, but I left thinking… maybe this could be home someday.

🏔 Ready to Book Your Stay?

If you’re planning your own Boulder getaway, you can book Foot of the Mountain Motel through the link below:
👉 Foot of the Mountain Motel

And if you’re ready to explore beyond your stay, check out my curated Boulder Experiences Viator Shop filled with my favorite local tours and experiences. Everything from scenic hikes and e-bike rides to guided nature walks and foodie adventures. Because Boulder is even better when you experience it fully.

☕️ Where to Eat & Grab Coffee Nearby

After a day on the trails, reward yourself with a little Boulder flavor:

• Ozo Coffee Co. – Local favorite with great coffee and mountain vibes.

• The Laughing Goat – Perfect for a latte and a pastry before a morning hike.

• Alpine Modern Café – Clean, minimalist design and delicious espresso just minutes from Chautauqua.

• The Sink – A funky Boulder institution since 1923 (try the pizza!).

• Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant – Gorgeous plant-based menu featuring local ingredients—perfect for a post-hike dinner.

🧭 Pro Tips

• Book early. Even small motels like this fill up quickly during football games and campus weekends. Here are my Boulder Hotel Recommendations.

• If your property has it available, ask for a mountain-facing room. Waking up to that view? Unmatched.

• Bring layers. Boulder weather changes by the minute—sunshine one second, drizzle the next.

• Take advantage of their drink station. Refill your water bottle, grab a hot chocolate, and skip the bottled stuff.

🎒 Gear I Always Recommend for Boulder Adventures

These are a few things I always keep in my backpack:

• Rain Gear: I was so glad I brought my Northface rain jacket, it poured one afternoon. If you don’t have one, a poncho is perfect (you can throw it right over your backpack).

• Layers, layers, layers: The weather in the mountains can change quickly. I always bring my REI down jacket, which is easy lightweight and easy to pack.

• Extra Shoes: After hiking all day, slipping into a comfy pair of Tevas or sandals feels heavenly.

• Favorite Hiking Outfit & Socks: Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics make all the difference on the trails, especially around the Flatirons. Shop my Favorite Hiking and Backpacking Gear for Women.
  
  

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