Dumont, Downieville and Lawson
Most people don't realize these are three separate little communities until they're driving through. They sit shoulder to shoulder along Clear Creek between Idaho Springs and Empire, at exits 234 and 235 off I-70. There's no real downtown. That's part of the appeal.
What you get instead is quiet, a creek in your backyard if you want it, and a 10-minute drive to Idaho Springs for groceries, Indian Hot Springs and dinner.
The commute math
Dumont is one of the easiest mountain commutes in Clear Creek County. You're about 40 minutes from the Denver metro on a normal day. On a Sunday ski-traffic afternoon, it's a different story, and you'll learn to plan around it like everyone else up here.
The upside is that you're close to everything going west, too. Loveland and Arapahoe Basin are about half an hour away, and you'll beat the Front Range crowd to the lifts.
What to look for in a Dumont home
- Sun: the valley is narrow. Some lots on the south side of the creek barely see winter sun, and that means icy driveways and higher heating bills. I check this on every showing.
- Flood zone: creekside is beautiful, but ask for the FEMA flood map and an insurance quote before you write an offer.
- Road noise: homes up the hillside get bigger views and less interstate hum.
- Wells and septic: most homes are on both. Older cabins especially need a close look at the septic and the well's production.
Who Dumont is a good fit for
Ski commuters, remote workers who still need to be in Denver now and then, and buyers who want a real mountain home without paying Evergreen or Georgetown prices. If that sounds like you, I'd love to show you around.
Nearby: Idaho Springs · Empire · Clear Creek County
