The Local Advantage
As Estes Park’s locally owned and operated broadband utility, Trailblazer is uniquely focused on serving the Estes Valley and nearby areas. Much like other local businesses, Trailblazer thrives with the support of the community it was created to serve. The company was founded to fill a gap in broadband access that larger providers hadn’t addressed, and it remains dedicated to its mission of “Connecting the Community.”
To date, Trailblazer has extended service—without the use of tax revenue—to over 80% of its planned coverage area, reaching Estes Park Power and Communications customers with reliable fiber internet. This same network is also laying the groundwork for future SmartGrid and sustainability initiatives.
But today’s focus is on something that matters to everyone: getting real value from your internet service. Trailblazer aims to inspire trust by offering straightforward, transparent pricing—free from confusing bundles or surprise fees. What you see is what you get, with no long list of line-item add-ons. Whether you’re currently a Trailblazer customer or simply exploring your options, comparing providers is a smart way to ensure you’re getting the most for your money. The information below is designed to help you do just that—because making informed decisions benefits the whole community.
Why Comparing Internet Plans Matters
In today’s digital age, having reliable and fast internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or staying connected with loved ones, a good internet connection is essential. However, navigating the complex world of internet pricing can be daunting. In an industry notorious for confusing bills and hidden charges, transparent pricing is a real advantage. When you know exactly what you’ll pay each month—with no surprises—you can budget confidently and avoid the frustration of unexpected costs. According to industry research, customers value clear, easy-to-understand billing, and are more likely to trust and stick with providers who deliver it.
Not all internet plans are created equal, and neither are their price tags. Providers often structure their pricing in ways that can make direct comparisons tricky. For example:
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Promotional rates: Many ISPs offer low introductory prices that increase significantly after a few months.
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Equipment rental fees: It’s common for providers to charge $10–$15 per month to rent a modem or router—costs that add up quickly if you’re not paying attention.
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Installation and activation fees: Some providers tack on one-time charges that can range from $50 to $200.
- Data overage charges: Even with some “unlimited” data plans, providers will impose data caps and slow down internet speeds if the caps are exceeded.
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Taxes and surcharges: These can vary by location and provider, and they’re not always included in the advertised rate.
If you only look at the quoted monthly price, you might be surprised by your first bill. That’s why it’s a best practice to read the fine print, ask questions, and use comparison tools that break down all the costs—not just the headline rate.
How to Compare Internet Prices Effectively
When comparing internet prices, consider the following steps:
1. Check the Fine Print:
Look for any additional fees or taxes that might be added to your bill. Some providers charge extra for equipment rental or installation.
2. Evaluate Speed and Reliability:
Faster speeds often come with higher prices, but not all providers offer the same level of reliability. A 100% fiber-optic connection, provides superior speed and reliability compared to traditional cable, DSL services and even hybrid coax cable + fiber options.
3. Consider Customer Service:
Local providers often offer better customer support, which can be invaluable if you encounter issues with your service.
4. Look for Promotions and Discounts:
Keep an eye out for special offers or discounts that can reduce your costs. However, be wary of introductory rates that may increase after a promotional period.
The Value of Transparent Pricing
Before you sign up for a new internet plan, consider these best practices:
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Ask for a full breakdown of all costs, including equipment, installation, and taxes.
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Check how long promotional rates last and what your price will be after they expire.
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Look for providers that offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing—where the price you see is the price you pay.
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Read reviews and use comparison tools that highlight hidden fees and real customer experiences.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right internet provider is about more than just finding the cheapest option. It’s about getting the best value for your money while supporting businesses that care about your community. Trailblazer Broadband offers a unique combination of speed, reliability, and transparent pricing, making it an excellent choice for residents of Estes Park. By comparing prices carefully and considering the benefits of local support, you can ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck while contributing to the local economy.
Visit TrailblazerBroadband.com or call us today to learn more about the internet service that supports your community.
Sources:
1. nbsdc.org,nbsdc.org/comparing-inte…,Comparing Internet Plans: How Do Local Prices Stack Up? – nbsdc.org
2. KonectEaze,konecteaze.com/unmasking-hidd…,Unmasking Hidden Internet Fees That Will Haunt You | KonectEaze
3. Broadbandnow.com, broadbandnow.com/guides/avoid-h…,How to Avoid Hidden Fees on Your Internet Bill | BroadbandNow.com
4. CR Advocacy, advocacy.consumerreports.org/research/fight…,Fight for Fair Internet: Consumer Reports white paper on broadband …
5. Compare Internet,compareinternet.com,Compare Internet Providers and Plans | Compare Internet
6. CSG,csgi.com/insights/how-i…,How ISPs Can Leverage the FCC’s New Broadband Regulations to …
7. cnet, cnet.com/home/internet/…,You’re Buying Your Internet Wrong: Avoid These Top 10 Mistakes To …
8. nerdwallet,nerdwallet.com/article/financ…Average Internet Cost Per Month: How Do You Compare?
9. highspeedinternet,highspeedinternet.com/resources/how-…How Much Should I Be Paying for High-Speed Internet?
UPDATE – June 23, 2025: BEAD Program Changes May Limit Funding for Estes Valley
Since this blog was originally published, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has released further updates to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program that could impact our region’s eligibility for funding.
The NTIA has restructured the program under a new approach referred to as “The Benefit of the Bargain,” which emphasizes cost-efficiency over infrastructure type. These changes have triggered a full reset of the grant process, including the following key developments:
1. All Preliminary Awards Rescinded
The State of Colorado must now reopen the subgrantee selection process. This includes rescinding all preliminary awards, including the one Trailblazer Broadband had been conditionally approved for earlier this year. All potential applicants are watching for updated guidance from the Colorado Broadband Office (CBO) regarding next steps and location eligibility.
2. Technology Neutrality Introduced
BEAD funding will no longer prioritize fiber-optic networks. Instead, any broadband technology capable of delivering the FCC-mandated minimum speeds may be selected, including fixed wireless and hybrid systems.
While these technologies can offer faster deployment and lower up-front costs, they can be more expensive to scale over time and may face challenges in areas like the Estes Valley, where terrain, vegetation, and seasonal weather impact signal quality and network reliability. Fiber infrastructure, while more costly to build initially, remains the most consistent and scalable solution over time.
3. New Provider Challenge Process
Under the updated rules, broadband providers across the state will be allowed to resubmit data showing existing service coverage that meets the 100/30 standard. If accepted, these coverage claims may render certain locations ineligible for BEAD funding—even if residents in those areas still experience inconsistent service or lack reliable connectivity.
What This Means for Trailblazer & Estes Valley
These changes will likely reduce the number of areas eligible for support in our mountain community, where broadband construction is inherently more expensive. It also means cost, not durability or long-term performance, will likely guide funding decisions.
Trailblazer Broadband remains committed to advocating for solutions that meet our community’s needs—not just today, but well into the future. We will continue to work with the CBO and other partners to explore all available opportunities for support and will keep our community informed as more information becomes available.
Original Post – June 17, 2025
As many of you know, Trailblazer Broadband has already invested nearly $30 million to bring high-speed fiber internet to our community. We’re proud to be among the many “shovel-ready” broadband projects nationwide—fully engineered, permitted, and ready to build the final miles.
Unfortunately, recent federal developments have added a new layer of uncertainty. On June 6, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced sweeping changes to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.
Among the most impactful:
- States must now conduct at least one more competitive funding round—even if they’ve already selected awardees.
- The former preference for fiber-optic technology has been removed. Now, any solution that meets minimum speed and latency requirements is considered a “priority” project.
- States will be required to re-submit their BEAD proposals, with a new emphasis on selecting the lowest cost-per-premise
While Colorado has been proactive—submitting letters to Secretary Lutnick and continuing to advocate for BEAD deployment—we don’t yet know how these new federal mandates will affect preliminary awards like ours. At a minimum, we anticipate that the application process will be extended and that previously planned allocations may be reevaluated under this new framework.
We’re sympathetic to the growing frustration these delays and changes create—not just for communities still waiting for service, but for small local teams like ours who are balancing day-to-day operations and navigating the increasing complexity of federal grant compliance. These changes could mean more competition for limited dollars and a higher cost-efficiency bar to clear—despite the fact that we’re ready to build today.
Still, we remain committed to seeing this through. Trailblazer Broadband will continue advocating for Estes Park, Glen Haven, Allenspark, and the entire Estes Valley—because reliable, high-speed internet isn’t a luxury. It’s fast becoming a utility, and a necessity.
We’ll keep you posted as we learn more from the State of Colorado in the coming weeks. In the meantime, thank you—as always—for your patience and support.
Cultivating a Water-Wise Colorado Garden
In Colorado, where water is precious and drought conditions are common, responsible gardening practices are more important than ever. Xeriscaping—a landscaping approach that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental irrigation—has long been a staple of smart, sustainable gardening here. But now, thanks to the power of smart technology and fiber internet from Trailblazer Broadband, it’s easier than ever to cultivate eco-friendly gardens that thrive in our unique climate.
Whether you’re growing native plants, herbs, or vegetables, gardening can be both therapeutic and rewarding. But the physical effort and constant upkeep often required can be daunting. Fortunately, smart gardening technology offers innovative tools to help Colorado gardeners save time, conserve water, and boost yields—all while protecting our natural resources.
Smart Gardening in Colorado: Technology Meets Sustainability
Smart gardening integrates modern technology into traditional gardening practices to help you monitor, automate, and optimize your garden using devices that sync with your smartphone or tablet. These tools are especially valuable in water-conscious states like Colorado, where efficient irrigation and climate-appropriate plant choices make all the difference.
Here’s how smart tech is transforming sustainable gardening across the Centennial State:
🌱 Smart Irrigation Systems
Smart irrigation systems are a game-changer for water conservation. These systems use soil moisture sensors, weather data, and plant-specific watering needs to deliver just the right amount of water—only when it’s actually needed. This means healthier plants, lower utility bills, and significantly less water waste.
Local Tip: Look into rebate programs from local water districts like Northern Water or Resource Central in Boulder for discounts on smart irrigation tools and consultations.
🌿 Advanced Soil Sensors
Good soil health is key to a flourishing garden. Smart soil sensors take the guesswork out of gardening by measuring critical metrics like moisture levels, temperature, and nutrient content. This data empowers gardeners to make informed decisions about watering, fertilizing, and planting—minimizing both waste and effort.
🌼 Xeriscaping and Native Plants
Colorado is the ideal environment for xeriscaping, which emphasizes drought-tolerant native plants like blue grama grass, blanket flower, and Rocky Mountain penstemon. These plants require far less water than traditional turf lawns and support local pollinators and wildlife.
Want to learn more? Check out the Colorado Native Plant Society and the Plant Select® program for ideas on what to plant in your region.
🤖 Smart Gardening Devices
From automated drip irrigation to robotic weeders and mowers (for those who still maintain some grass), smart gardening tools can dramatically reduce the physical labor required for upkeep. These devices use GPS, AI, and advanced programming to care for your garden efficiently—freeing up more time to enjoy the outdoors rather than toil in it.
The Future is Fiber-Powered and Eco-Friendly
All of these innovations are powered by fast, reliable internet. Trailblazer Broadband’s high-speed fiber network ensures that your smart gardening tools stay connected and responsive—whether you’re adjusting irrigation schedules from your kitchen or checking soil conditions on vacation.
As Colorado communities grow more climate-conscious, the future of gardening will be defined by low-water, low-maintenance, and high-tech solutions. By embracing smart gardening, you can do your part to protect our natural resources while cultivating a vibrant and sustainable outdoor space.
Helpful Colorado Resources for Smart, Sustainable Gardening:
Ready to grow smarter? Let Trailblazer Broadband connect your garden to the future—one drop of water at a time.
By: Trailblazer News Team – Special Report
At Estes Park Middle School, a group of computer science students turned frustration into innovation.
Faced with persistent internet connectivity problems and sluggish classroom computers, students in one of the Computer Science classes—led by their dedicated teacher, Mrs. Ravi Davis—decided to do what real problem-solvers do: investigate the issue, dig into the data, and present solutions. And that’s exactly what they did.
Instead of shrugging off the tech troubles, these students put on their analytical hats and embarked on a full-blown inquiry into why their classroom experience was lagging. Over the course of the term, they explored everything from bandwidth limitations to outdated hardware, and what they found was eye-opening.
During a recent presentation to Estes Park School District administrative staff, including the IT Systems Administrator/Cyber Analyst and a few guests from Trailblazer Broadband, the students impressed everyone with their research, professionalism, and thoughtful recommendations.
🔍 Root Cause: Found!
The students outlined several key issues impacting their ability to learn effectively:
- Unstable WiFi connectivity within the school made it frustratingly difficult to stay connected to online resources. Frequent disconnections and lag—likely caused by environmental interference (concrete walls and school construction materials) and older devices not equipped for high-speed wireless—disrupted their ability to complete coding assignments or use the curriculum smoothly.
- Outdated classroom computers were also a major roadblock. Equipped with aging Intel Core i5 processors, only 8GB of RAM, and limited integrated graphics, these machines struggled to handle even basic programming tasks.
- Operating system concerns added another layer to the tech tangle, prompting the students to explore a more holistic solution involving upgraded devices.
💡 Tech Tip: WiFi vs. Internet—What’s the Difference?
It’s a common mix-up! WiFi is the wireless signal that connects devices to an internal network. The internet, on the other hand, is the connection Trailblazer Broadband provides from the outside world to the building (home, business or school!). In this case, the internet wasn’t the problem—the WiFi signal inside the classroom was. Things like concrete walls, older laptops, and limited wireless access points can all make WiFi connections drop or slow down, even with a strong internet feed coming in. |
💡 Solutions: Researched and Ready
But this wasn’t a “complaint session” by any stretch of the imagination! These students came prepared with three researched computer options—models from Lenovo, HP, and Dell—comparing specs, RAM, graphics capabilities, storage, and price. They even considered the financial implications of reducing the class size to make new technology more affordable.
The highlight? Their thoughtful consideration of how improved devices would benefit not just this class, but future students. Better equipment means smoother curriculum delivery, stronger skill development, and fewer tech-induced roadblocks in their learning journey.
| 🖥️Which Computer is Best?
The students had excellent suggestions and after consulting with the IT Systems Administrator/Cyber Analyst, it was determined the best fit for the class should be devices designed to meet tech needs for several years. This is the district-recommended workhorse!
DakTech Discovery H810 Desktop:
● Processor Intel Core Ultra 7 265 30M Cache, 2.4 GHz (Turbo 5.30GHz)
● Memory 32GB DDR5 5600MHz
● Video Card 8GB GDDR6 NVIDIA RTX A1000
● Monitor ASUS 27″ VA27DQ 1080P Full HD 1920 x 1080 |
🎤 Tech Talk with the Trailblazers — Q&A for the Class
- What was the thing that surprised you the most during this project? “We initially thought it was the internet causing our electronic troubles. But truly, it was the devices that were rubbish.”
- What part of the research did you enjoy the most—and why? “We enjoyed presenting our proposal to the administration and Trailblazer Broadband the most, and have our voices heard.”
- Was there anything that frustrated you along the way? “Having to work on the outdated computers along the way.”
- Knowing what you know now, and considering long-term future use, if you had unlimited funds, what kind of computers would you pick—and what features would they have? “We would like to have the computers that Mr. Compton spec’d for us, based on our research and what we needed.”
- Did this project change how you think about technology in schools? How? “Yes. It changed how we think about technology because we now understand the importance of having good technology to support computer science education.”
- What was it like presenting to adults from the district and Trailblazer? Nerve-wracking, exciting… or both? “Nervous and exhilarating! It felt incredible to be able to present in front of administration and Trailblazer.”
- Would you want to work in tech someday? If so, what kind of job would you love to have? “Yes – film animation, video game development, and Space Force!”
👏 Community Collaboration
And yes—when asked what surprised them most, one student (very enthusiastically!) said:
“That Trailblazer actually came to our class to listen to our presentation!”
You bet we did—and we left inspired. These future engineers, analysts, and innovators reminded us that problem-solving starts at any age, especially when guided by a supportive educator and a curiosity to make things better
| Thank You To the Estes Park School District! |
The great news is that the District was able to purchase 15 of these devices already!!
Estes Park Middle School Tech Students still need more devices so class size doesn’t need to be reduced and they can all participate.
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You Can Support Computer Science at Estes Park Middle School!
Fundraiser Report from the Estes Park School District
We are working to expand access to computer science and technology education at Estes Park Middle School. Your support can help us purchase computers to ensure all students have the tools they need to fully participate in our growing computer science program — including courses in game and animation design, coding, and web design.
To make a donation:
Please make checks payable to EPMS Computer Science and mail them to:
Estes Park School District
c/o Wendy Rashid
1605 Brodie Avenue
Estes Park, CO 80517
Thank you for investing in our students and their future! |
In Estes Park, CO, where breathtaking mountain views meet the charm of small-town living, more and more residents are embracing the convenience and peace of mind that comes with a smart home. At the heart of this modern transformation is Trailblazer Broadband—Estes Park’s community-owned, 100% fiber-optic internet service.
With ultra-fast, reliable internet as the backbone, homeowners can take full advantage of today’s smart technology—whether you live here full-time or just during part of the year.
Fiber Internet: The Backbone of a Smart Home
A smart home is only as strong as its internet connection. Devices like smart thermostats, cameras, lighting systems, door locks, and sensors all rely on steady, fast, and responsive connectivity to work as intended. Trailblazer’s fiber network provides the kind of high-speed, low-latency internet that allows these systems to operate smoothly—whether you’re streaming real-time security footage, adjusting your thermostat remotely, or getting alerts about an open window.
Seasonal Hold: Stay Connected, Even When You’re Away
One of the unique challenges of mountain-town living is that many homeowners only spend part of the year here. Trailblazer recognizes this and offers a seasonal hold option that keeps your connection live with just enough bandwidth to support essential smart home functions while you’re away.
This means your security cameras can continue monitoring, your smart thermostat can protect your pipes from freezing, and motion sensors can send you alerts if something’s not right—all without having to fully disconnect your service. It’s a quiet, behind-the-scenes way to maintain peace of mind when your home is sitting empty.
Smart Home Functionality: Beyond the Basics
Most people are familiar with the basics of smart homes—voice-controlled lights, smart thermostats, security cameras—but the possibilities go far beyond that. With a strong fiber connection like Trailblazer’s, here are some lesser-known and surprisingly useful things you can do with smart home tech:
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Remote Pet Monitoring: Set up cameras and treat dispensers that let you watch, talk to, and even reward your pet while you’re away.
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Smart Leak Detection: Water leak sensors can notify you of potential issues before they become major damage—particularly helpful in vacation homes.
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Automated Blinds: Smart shades can adjust based on the time of day or sun position, improving energy efficiency and protecting furniture from UV rays.
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Geo-Fencing: Your home can respond to your location—unlocking the door and turning on lights when you arrive, and adjusting energy settings when you leave.
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Voice-Controlled Appliance Integration: From ovens that preheat on command to washers that text you when the cycle’s done, smart appliances can streamline your routine.
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Smart Plugs & Energy Monitoring: See how much energy specific devices use and automate when they turn on or off to reduce waste.
- Health & Wellness Features: Devices like Alexa or Google Assistant can offer medication reminders, daily wellness checks, and even emergency calling features—making them especially helpful for seniors aging in place. And with a stable internet connection, telehealth appointments are smoother and more accessible than ever, even in a mountain town.
Energy Efficiency: Smart for Your Wallet, and the Planet
One of the biggest benefits of a smart home—especially one connected through a fast, reliable fiber network—is energy efficiency. By learning your habits and making real-time adjustments, devices like smart thermostats, lighting systems, and irrigation controllers help reduce overall consumption.
You can monitor and optimize your energy use room by room, day by day. Not only does this lower your utility bills, but it also reduces your environmental footprint—an especially meaningful choice in a place as beautiful and ecologically sensitive as Estes Park.
A Smarter Way to Live in the Mountains
Trailblazer Broadband gives Estes Park residents the digital infrastructure to support the kind of smart home living that was once only a futuristic dream. Whether you’re automating your home for everyday convenience, monitoring it remotely from across the country, or just trying to reduce your impact on the environment, fast and reliable internet is the foundation that makes it all possible.
Smart, secure, sustainable living isn’t just for big cities anymore—it’s right here in the Rockies, powered by the community and connected by Trailblazer.
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