Bow Mar: A Lakeside Community

Bow Mar developed originally as an agricultural area that supplied the city of Denver as it grew. Two of the pioneering farmers who settled in the area were John Marston and Joseph Bowles. It is from the surnames of these two farmers that the area got its modern day name. It is still possible to see the farm that once belonged to the Bowles family, just to the south of the town of Bow Mar.

During the 1940s and 1950s, the continued growth of Denver generated a need for additional housing that surpassed the need for locally produced food from the Bow Mar area. The land was given over for residential development, with many single family homes being built before the end of the 1950s. Many of the houses were in the prairie style architecture derived from the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. They were built on large lots, with wide streets between them. Most properties were limited to a single storey at this time. In 1958, Bow Mar became an incorporated town. Since then, many of the original properties have been updated or demolished and replaced with modern buildings. The large one acre sized lots have been maintained however, as have the magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains that are enjoyed from all of the residences in Bow Mar.

The town of Bow Mar lies between Marston Reservoir and Bowles Lake, both of which provide excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. Bowles Lake, which is also sometimes known as Bow Mar Lake is a favorite recreational site for the local residents. It is also the site of the annual regatta held by the town's Yacht Club. In addition to sailing on the water, the lake is used for skating during the winter and has some beautiful picnic sites around it.

The Bow Mar public beach is one of the most popular destinations for recreation and entertainment in the town. This is a lake beach that is along the shores of Bowles Lake. The beach is used throughout the year as a venue for concerts and other social gatherings and events.

A range of other sporting and recreational facilities are also available in the town, including tennis courts and some beautiful walking trails. The local homeowner's association organizes numerous social events throughout the year which help to foster a feeling of community within the town.

The area around Bow Mar contains some beautiful scenery and untouched countryside that is perfect for outdoor activities and which provides a home for many native species. The local bird sanctuary is the perfect place to spot some of the most interesting wildlife.

Bow Mar is within easy commuting distance of Denver, and the many amenities of the big city are likewise within easy reach of the residents of Bow Mar. Nevertheless, the town has a very close knit community that creates a small town, rural atmosphere.

The nearby Bear Valley and the downtown area of Littleton offer the best shopping opportunities in the local area. Denver and Littleton are both close to Bow Mar, and many residents choose to visit these larger communities in order to enjoy the amenities or a night out.