S23 is in Colorado (CSU) and while he loves the outdoors and touring (he’s in Moab this weekend), it does require a car (or a friend with a car) and hours of driving. He often drives 3 hours on weekends to go exploring somewhere although there are also great places to explore within an hour or just a bike ride away. The idea of “close” out west is entirely different than the east coast.
That’s where he should go then! My son was totally set on going to another school until he visited CSU. And then he just knew. I have to say, he’s definitely living his best life out in Colorado. It’s so different than where we live and he’s loving it. I love that he’s getting such a different perspective. There is just something about Colorado for a certain type of kid.
Just be aware that off campus housing is very expensive in Boulder. Make sure you factor that into the finances.