"I’ve lived all over the state, and although this is not the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen, it’s in the top three," King said. Chris King has seen or lived in most every place in the state of Colorado, but he is quick to say Clark is special.

That says a lot, considering that this area, which stretches north from Clark to the Wyoming border, is not a hot spot for tourists. But the beauty of North Routt County, residents say, is enhanced by its remoteness. Clark is a 30-minute drive north from the center of Steamboat Springs, while traveling further north to Hahn’s Peak adds another 20 minutes.

Unlike other areas around Steamboat Springs that can best be characterized as "Western" environments with dry landscape, Clark and the rest of North Routt sit a little higher and so are characterized as "Alpine" environments.  That means tall, sweet-smelling pines, crisp air and clear, sharp light.

There’s a rural feel here, and life is ruled by both ranching and recreation. The area is home to a mix of ranchers and professionals, so residents who aren’t driving cattle around nearby fields are usually driving their cars back and forth to Steamboat.

Short-term supplies are easy to get at Steamboat Lake Outfitters or down in Clark’s Country Store, but many residents find themselves making a trip south to Steamboat at least once a week.

"It puts another twist on life when you’ve got a 40-mile commute to get a gallon of milk," King said.

But the commute is worth it for professionals looking to live outside a busy resort town. It’s also worth it for outdoor enthusiasts, who thrive on the range of outdoor activities that are accessible from the front and back doors of every North Routt home. During the winter, snowmobiling and backcountry skiing here are top-notch, with North Routt drawing "powder hounds" from around the state.  During the summer, residents find themselves with easy access to fishing, camping, rafting, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, sailing and hunting.