Living in the Gunnison Valley

Transcript

Let’s stop over to talk with Tanner and learn all about Western’s unbeatable location in Gunnison, Colorado. With endless outdoor recreation opportunities, the two formally recognized Colorado Creative Districts, and a close-knit community feel, the Gunnison Valley is a place where students feel at home, no matter their personal interest. Let’s hear all about it. Take it away, Tanner.

– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Growing up in Kansas, my family would often vacation in the Rocky Mountains. This cultivated a love and passion for the outdoors and Colorado in general. After graduating high school, I knew Colorado was where I was meant to be. After a quick internet search, I found Western Colorado University, and immediately, I was hooked. My experience so far at Western has been nothing short of an adventure, both inside and outside of the classroom. There aren’t many schools that offer orientation trips that can include week-long rock climbing, rafting, or mountaineering trips. Because of the incredible location, services, and people that Western has to provide, I was able to learn great new skills like skiing, rock climbing, and backpacking. We are lucky enough to call beautiful Gunnison, Colorado Home. Gunnison is home to some great restaurants, fun shops, and beautiful views, all of which are commonplace here. The live music at the I Bar Ranch is a pretty big deal. We are also home to Cattlemen Days Rodeo, one of Colorado’s oldest and largest. For Gunnison being such a small town, there’s no shortage of things to do. One of my absolute favorite parts about the Gunnison Valley includes the seemingly endless amount of public recreational land that is available for everyone to use. Hartman Rocks and Taylor Canyon are both excellent examples of this. Gunnison also makes it easier for newer and less experienced students. The free RTA bus to Crested Butte is an easy and fantastic way to explore the valley. Western Colorado University has done an outstanding job welcoming me into the valley. Since my first day on campus, I knew this was a place I could thrive at, both in the classroom and the back country. Well, that’s it for me. Rock on, Alex.

– Thank you, Tanner. From what you’ve shared, it’s no wonder why the Gunnison Valley is becoming such a popular tourist destination, and now I get why so many alumni choose to make this place their permanent home after graduation. That was fantastic. Take care.