The Hearth: Highlands Ranch's Newest Neighborhood

The Hearth is one of the newest neighborhoods in the Highlands Ranch area, and it is, therefore, located right on the outer edge of the community. This means that many of the houses in The Hearth have views directly out over the surrounding countryside. Some properties in The Hearth stand alongside the beautiful Backcountry Wilderness Area, an area of preserved natural habitat that plays an important role in making the Highlands Ranch community what it is. The beauty and recreational potential of the Backcountry Wilderness is one of the main attractions of the Highlands Ranch area, so any home that backs onto this area is highly desirable.

Construction in The Hearth only began in 2005. There are now a range of different properties in the neighborhood. Many are ideally situated on peaceful cul-de-sacs or backing onto the open space that is so common in the green Highlands Ranch community. Views of the Rocky Mountains are also available from some of the properties in The Hearth.

Since the homes in The Hearth are so new, they are all fitted with the latest amenities, and many of the people who have chosen to live in this neighborhood were as excited about the properties themselves as much as the amenities of the area into which they were moving. The Hearth is characterized by large single family homes, many of which are painted in rich, attractive colors that are bolder than those that are commonly seen elsewhere in Highlands Ranch.

The Hearth is an excellent neighborhood in which to bring up a family. There is an abundance of open space in the area, including the nearby Backcountry Wilderness and Daniel's Gate Park. Children living in The Hearth usually attend either the Wildcat Mountain or Redstone elementary schools, depending upon their exact address. They then move on to middle school at Rocky Heights and high school at Rock Canyon.

Daniel's Gate Park is the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing picnic, while the Backcountry Wilderness and the Highlands Ranch trails system offer many possibilities for residents of a more active nature. Hiking, cycling and running are all popular activities, and there are also a number of routes that are suitable for horseback riding.

The Highlands Ranch Community Association is very active in organizing activities and events for the local community. It also maintains many of the amenities in the area, including the local recreation centers. The Southridge Center is closest to The Hearth, and is within walking distance of many of the homes in the neighborhood.

Southridge is also the nearest shopping area, with a range of different stores and services, and a good selection of restaurants. Slightly further away are the Highlands Ranch Town Center and the Eastridge shopping area, which are both still within easy reach of The Hearth, as is the Park Meadows Mall.

Commuting into Denver from The Hearth is very easy, and many of the locals choose to do so. It is equally easy to visit the city center in order to take advantage of the many amenities that are available there.