Against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains, the buildings of downtown Denver jut jaggedly into the skyline. It's a scene that might seem incongruous if it wasn't so appropriate to this city's spirit and history. Denver struggled a generation ago to shed the image of its Old West past and to define itself in modern terms. It succeeded so well that its vibrant economy, outdoor lifestyle, thriving culture, and sense of community may be the perfect embodiment of the new American West. Indeed, Denver and its northern neighbor, Boulder, have settled into a period of prosperity and optimism, with the last two decades bringing an influx of well-educated professionals who now call the area home. Whether encouraged by their economic prospects, the comfortable climate, or the endless outdoor adventures, they are proof that the area's beauty and sophistication are more than skin-deep.