Frequently Asked Questions

Trailblazer Broadband is a community-owned high-speed internet service in Estes Park, designed to provide reliable and fast connectivity through a fiber-optic network. This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for better internet services, as indicated by local residents' feedback.

Benefits of Trailblazer Broadband:

• Speed and Reliability: Offers internet speeds up to 100 times faster than existing options, ensuring consistent performance even with multiple users and devices.
• Local Ownership: Being community-operated means profits are reinvested locally, supporting jobs and services in Estes Park.
• No Long-Term Contracts: Users can enjoy the service without being tied to lengthy commitments, allowing them to experience the benefits firsthand.
• Enhanced Services for All: It supports both residential needs and local businesses, improving capabilities for remote work, video conferencing, and streaming.

Overall, Trailblazer Broadband represents a significant advancement in internet access for the Estes Park community, promising exceptional service tailored to local needs.

Residents and businesses of Estes Park have expressed a need for faster, more reliable internet for many, many years. In a 2018 scientific survey,  two-thirds of respondents told us that they wanted the Town to provide better internet service, their highest priority among 40 current and potential services. Private companies were highly unlikely to bring fiber-optic internet to Estes Park and surrounding areas due to the large up-front investment associated with the project.
In addition to faster, more reliable internet, Trailblazer Broadband is an investment in the community. By investing in its own broadband service, the Town of Estes Park is keeping dollars in the community while also creating jobs and ensuring high-quality local support through Estes Park Power & Communications.

Absolutely! As of 2024, Trailblazer provides Commercial Service to over 300 clients.  Our Customer Support team will work with businesses to meet their individual needs.  Contact Trailblazer Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM MT at 970-577-3770 or email us at info@TrailblazerBroadband.com. 

In March 2019, the Town Board approved the launch and initial funding of the  community-owned and operated broadband service.  The initial startup phase will take advantage of Estes Park Power and Communication’s Smart Grid fiber optics infrastructure, which already exists in specific neighborhoods and is currently under construction in others.
In late 2019, a bond issuance is planned to fund the four-year buildout of the utility -- across the entire Power & Communications service area in Estes Park, Glen Haven, Allenspark and portions of the U.S. 34 and U.S. 36 corridors to the east. To ensure the business is funding itself, the order of service additions will be based on the construction cost and revenue potential.
Beyond that, your rate payments for service go right back into running, maintaining, and expanding the system because this is your community-owned broadband. Community tax dollars are not used for the project. 
As of 2024, to continue to keep costs low and not use community tax dollars, additional grant funding is needed to complete the buildout. Read the 2024 Project Update here. 

Although Crown Castle and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) are installing 5G cellular towers and broadband coverage along a 20-mile stretch of US 36 between Lyons and Estes Park, 5G cellular service is not pervasive throughout Estes Park, and currently there are no plans to expand that service anytime soon. On the other hand, Trailblazer Broadband is available to about 82% of the Estes Park Power and Communications service area, including Glen Haven. However, some outlying areas still do not have service. 

Fiber is significantly more reliable than 5G in numerous ways:  

• Fiber capacity is easily over 10,000 times that of a perfectly functioning 5G wireless network. 
• Fiber is not susceptible to interference like wireless technologies. 
• Fiber is not impacted by atmospheric and physical obstruction like 5G. 
• Fiber is more secure than all wireless technologies. 
• The data carrying capacity of fiber is for all practical purposes, virtually unlimited. 

Fiber internet also performs significantly better than all existing and proposed satellite internet options in almost every way.

Read more in our blog "Fiber and 5G Cellular - What You Need to Know."

The Town intends to complete this fiber network to support our electric SmartGrid rand to meet Estes Park's renewable energy goals. As of 2024, the project is approximately 84% complete, providing service to the majority of the residents and businesses served by Estes Park Power and Communications.  

Yes – we’re in good company! In 2017, Longmont became Colorado’s first “Gig” city with its Nextlight service.  Ft. Collins Connexion and Loveland Pulse are also building their own fiber networks.
For additional perspective, more communities than ever are embracing building their own broadband networks as an alternative to the Comcast status quo. More than 750 communities across the United States have embraced operating their own broadband network, are served by local rural electric cooperatives, or have made at least some portion of a local fiber network publicly available. 

According to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR), since January 1, 2021, at least 47 new municipal networks have come online with dozens of other projects still in the planning or pre-construction phase, which includes the possibility of building 40 new municipal networks in California alone. 

Unlike wireless connections or copper lines which can be tapped, your data is safe with a "hard-wired" fiber cable connection. It doesn’t radiate signals and is almost impossible to tap. If the cable is tapped, it’s very easy to monitor because the cable leaks light, causing the entire system to fail. If an attempt is made to break the physical security of your fiber system, it will be readily apparent. 

FOR BUSINESSES: Fiber networks also enable you to put all your electronics and hardware in one central location, instead of having wiring closets with equipment throughout the building.

You may have heard that the Estes Park Town Board is considering electric rates changes.  

Power and Communications maintains a list of capital improvement projects which will improve service reliability and quality. 

• As part of the improvement to our electrical system, Power and Communications will construct smart grid infrastructure in parallel with the broadband installation. 
• Smart grid modernizes our electric grid to enable increased renewable energy resources.
• Power and Communications will also continue the deployment of smart meters. 
• More smart fuses will be installed across the electric system to increase reliability and reduce the number of power outages.

It's important to know that electric rates do not support Trailblazer broadband, although our smart grid system (smart fuses and smart meters) requires a fiber network. Electric rates will fund only the smart fiber portion needed for the electric system. 

To learn more about the electric rate studies and proposals, you can go to the Town website at https://www.colorado.gov/townofestespark/electricrates or attend/watch a recording of one of our Town Board meetings. 

Trailblazer Broadband is the only high-speed internet service delivered over 100% fiber-optic lines, resulting in the fastest and most reliable option available to residents and businesses of Estes Park.Here are just a few examples of the benefits that Trailblazer Broadband offers that differ from other services in the valley:

• Community Owned & Operated-Estes Park’s only Local Broadband Internet Service 

• We are Here for You - Local Customer Support You Can Count On-As we are local, we are able to be more responsive faster! 

• Fastest Speeds-Up to 1 Gigabit BOTH UPLOADS AND DOWNLOADS EQUALLY* which is up to 100x faster than other services in the area!

• Fiber Optics-Built directly to your home for the future (vs old technology and old cabling)-This increases your functionality and adds value to your residence.

• Best Value-No Contracts, No Data Caps-With Trailblazer you have the freedom to choose your own services.

• Reliability-New system buildout provides the most dependable internet service in Estes!

*  No one else in the valley offers comparable upload speeds which is important for emailing or posting larger files, pictures, videos, etc. as well as for video calls which have become so as more and more of us are video conferencing, telecommuting and keeping in touch via the  internet through applications like Skype and Zoom. 

Fiber optic cable is less likely to cause interference than the normal wired circuits since the signals are carried by a light beam inside a piece of fiber.

Fiber optic cable doesn't emit any electromagnetic radiation from the cable itself, no matter how high the frequency of transmission is. This is possible because an optical fiber carries just light, which can be a kind of invisible light like infrared, or normal visible light. We could keep an active fiber optic cable under our pillow during the night without any risk of electromagnetic radiation.

Fiber optic networks may have some electromagnetic emissions from the nodes of the network, or from any device that connects two or more cables, but keep in mind that all metal wires emit some electromagnetic radiation when they carry an electromagnetic signal. 

Source: https://www.lowemfoffice.com/plastic_optical_fiber_overview.htm

Trailblazer Broadband has triple redundancy and three distinct fiber paths out of town that run along Highway 34, Highway 36 and through the Adams Tunnel. We use an auto-failover system as well as redundancy in our local network to avoid loss of connectivity should one route be compromised.

Trailblazer is the only local provider that offers a symmetrical speed up to 1Gbps (meaning upload & download speeds are the same).  

Using our equipment designed for speed tests, your installer will verify the max speed you are receiving at the time of your installation. Though speeds can vary for a number of reasons, typically, the installation speed test results show in the mid 900Mbps range directly wired into the modem/router device we provide with your service. Your installer will also verify max wireless speeds in your home.  

Speeds may vary on your home or business devices.  

See also: 

Why don't I get 1 GIG speeds on all my devices?

Slow Internet & Speed Test Instructions 

What is upload speed and why does it matter? 

Here are the payment options available for your Trailblazer Broadband account, along with step-by-step instructions:

1. Autopay by Credit Card (Preferred)

• Why It's Recommended: This is the easiest and most secure payment method.

• How to Set Up:

  1. Log in to the Client Portal.

  2. Visit the Payments Page.

  3. Click "Add credit card."

  4. Enter your credit card details and click Save.

• How It Works: Your saved credit card will automatically pay all future invoices.

2. Autopay via Bank Account (ACH) - Immediate Setup

• Why It's Recommended: Immediate, simple, and secure.

• How to Set Up: Follow the instructions provided in the link for immediate setup.

3. Autopay via Bank Account (ACH) - Manual Setup

• Why It's Recommended: Secure, though it takes a bit longer to set up.

• How to Set Up: Click the link and refer to Page 6 for manual setup instructions. This typically takes 1-2 business days.

4. Manual Monthly Payments

• Using Credit Card: Log in to the Client Portal each month and apply a credit card payment manually.

• Using Bank Account Bill Pay: Set up an auto-draft from your bank account to pay Trailblazer Broadband by the beginning of each month.

5. Check, Money Order, or Cashier's Check

• How to Pay: Mail your payment to Trailblazer Broadband at 1180 Woodstock Drive, Estes Park, CO 80517. Include your account ID on the check.

• In-Person Payment: Drop off your payment at the office between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Additional Notes:

• Existing Balance: If you have an existing balance when setting up Autopay, you will need to pay the invoices manually once.

• Customer Support: Available for any additional questions or assistance. Call 970-577-3770 for help.

You can change your payment method or make a payment through the Trailblazer Client Portal by following the steps outlined in this downloadable guide: Trailblazer Broadband Payment Options. 

If you have questions or would prefer that we help you take care of this over the phone, please contact our Customer Support team at 970-577-3770 between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, and we'll be happy to take care of it for you!

OUTSTANDING PAYMENTS:  

If you have added a new payment method after an invoice has been issued and is pending, autopay will NOT cover existing invoices. Autopay will only capture invoices generated after the payment change.  Invoices are typically generated 10 days prior to the due date, so if you change or add a payment method during that 10-day period a payment will not automatically be made, even if your account is signed up for autopay (which is the default setting).

For assistance with any outstanding invoices, please call 970-577-3770, Option 1 to reach Customer Support so we can assist you with making a payment. Please call or email me if you have any questions or concerns. 

 Yes. Trailblazer Broadband adheres to the highest standards for security. We rely on trusted third-party payment vendors to securely store and process all payment related information in an encrypted PCI-compliant digital vault.

Yes, you will receive an email within the 10 days leading up to your due date. If you have autopay enabled, your monthly payment will be automatically charged to the credit/debit card or bank account you provided when you signed up for the service. Additionally, you will receive a payment confirmation email once the payment has been processed.

We ask for a commitment upfront not only to lock in a space on our busy installation schedule but also to ensure that we can give priority availability to only our most interested customers. In most cases, the deposit is equal to the cost of one month of service. The deposit you pay at sign-up becomes a credit on your account and then is applied to your 1st month of service. Since the first month is prorated, any remaining balance will be applied to your second month of service with us.

• When you sign up for service, you will have the choice to provide a credit card or bank account information. 
• You will be billed a deposit of one full month's service fee plus any installation charges when you sign up for service.
• Then, on the first of each month, your monthly fee for internet  will be automatically charged/deducted from your account (unless you prefer to make a manual payment). 
• There is a 6 day grace period for late payments.  
• You will receive an invoice each month as a reminder, but as long as you leave your credit card on autopay,  you don't have to do anything; the payment will come out automatically, and you will receive an email confirmation of payment.  

Paper billing is currently not available.  PDFs of monthly invoices and account statements can be downloaded and printed from your Client Portal. 

As Estes Park's municipal broadband company, Trailblazer wants everyone in the community to have the best we can offer.  We provide our 1 GIG service for upload and download to everyone, residential and commercial.  

Because of that, we don't have a laundry list of commercial plans like some companies, because most plans are based on speed and data limits that we don't have.  

Instead, everyone gets the 1 GIG service and our business pricing is based on business classification.  The basic rate for small businesses is $129.95/month. Of course, some business service rates are higher based on business volume, users, and individualized needs.

For unique use cases that require additional bandwidth, a 10 GIG option is available. Trailblazer Customer Support can provide more information on this option. 

Fill out our quick Business Assessment Survey here so we can get an idea of your internet expectations.  

In reality, we didn’t increase rates for businesses, but instead are doing the opposite. We provide residential customers with what many internet companies only offer to business customers - symmetrical speeds for upload and download, no data caps, and no throttling - at a deeply discounted cost. 

We offer a 1 GIG plan to both business and residential customers so everyone can have the full advantage of fiber reliability, speed and bandwidth. 

There are two main differences in Trailblazer business versus residential service:  

1. We prioritize all business traffic on our network over residential traffic.  Think of it as an “express lane” for business internet. Trailblazer has 2 express lanes in our network that carry nothing but traffic.      CSR NOTE:  This is also known as prioritized traffic queuing for our more technical customers.  
   

2. Businesses also have priority access to our 24 x 7 tech support because we know that reliability and support are key when you're depending on the internet to make your living. 

Our business rates are significantly less than in neighboring communities even though we’re building a completely new infrastructure from scratch in a much larger area over much more difficult terrain.

We have worked very hard to provide a superior product at a fair price for both residences and businesses while ensuring we can successfully build out our new fiber network and make the service sustainable over time.

Our rates are based on business classification and individual business needs.  As you can imagine, different businesses have very different internet needs, so we don't have a set of cookie-cutter rate plans.  Instead, we take steps to understand exactly what you need and how you use the internet and provide you the lowest price we can to fit those needs.  I can't speak to someone else's plan, but let me review your information and get a quote put together for you.  

All businesses have basic WiFi capability included with their package and routed through the Nokia Gateway that Trailblazer provides as part of its service. This WiFi service is sufficient for streaming music and connecting a few devices, similar to what you might expect from a residential WiFi service.  

Beyond that, Trailblazer does not provide managed WiFi or networking services for businesses.  If you have more complex WiFi requirements and configurations, those would need to be managed internally or through the support of an independent IT management company of your choice. 

If you're using a WiFi connection, speeds will always be slower than with a wired connection, and WiFi signal strength   may be impacted by a number of factors including distance from the gateway, interference from appliances and other devices, walls, floors and other WiFi devices nearby.  

During your installation, the fiber technicians will run Speed Tests throughout the home to determine if the WiFi signal is optimal.  If necessary, the technicians may recommend a WiFi Beacon, or extender, to increase the WiFi signal in more remote parts of your home or those impacted by interference.  With the current Gateway strength and WiFi technology and strength, there is less and less need for Beacons in the home.

Yes, you can turn the light off with these easy steps: 

1. From the Nokia WiFi device list, tap the device you wish to view. At top of the screen, you see the device name.
2. The Nokia WiFi device's LED status is also shown under Configuration. 
3. The LED Light is enabled by default, selecting this option (clicking on the dot to disable) turns off the LED on top of the Nokia WiFi device.

Where you place the Nokia Beacon Gateway provided with your service (which functions as a modem AND a wireless router) can affect your wireless coverage.   During installation, the installers will review your home layout and how you use the internet to help you select the best location for your gateway following our Standard Installation Procedures.  

In general, the ideal position for a wireless router is in a central location and near where you use the internet most. Placing your router in the center of your home reduces wasted coverage area and eliminates unnecessary distance between the unit and any connected devices on the outside edges of the coverage area. 

It should be near an electrical outlet and at least 3 feet away from any appliances or wireless devices that may cause interference (e.g. Microwaves, Cordless Phones, Baby Monitors, Older Electronic Equipment etc.).

The NOKIA Beacon supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless frequencies.  The Beacon switches automatically depending on what the clearest channel is away from interference. Go to 192.168.18.1 (paste this IP address in your browser) and enter the email and password on the bottom of your device to review your settings.   

The primary differences between the two frequencies are the range (coverage) and bandwidth (speed) that the bands provide. The 2.4 GHz band is the "traditional" band provides coverage at a longer range but transmits data at slower speeds. The 5 GHz band provides a stronger signal with less coverage, so it transmits data at faster speeds.

You can download the Nokia WiFi App from To log in to the Nokia WiFi app from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

To log in: 
- You'll need a smartphone or tablet running the Nokia WiFi app connected to your existing wireless network
- Launch the Nokia WiFi app and tap Sign Up
- Please use the email address Trailblazer Broadband has on file for your account (bob@bobleavitt.com)
- The password can be whatever you'd like
- Tap Create
- Check your email and click the link to verify the account

The type of Ethernet cable you use can have an impact on your internet connection and speeds. 

Trailblazer provides a CAT 6 ethernet cable (recommended) at the time of installation to connect the Gateway at no additional charge.

Standard Cat 6 cables support the same speeds as Cat 5e but give you more than double the bandwidth. The higher bandwidth helps reduce download and upload times, especially if you are transferring files from one computer to another via a Cat 6 cable.  This cable is also "shielded" to reduce crosstalk and signs interference.  

Pure copper rather than copper clad aluminum will give you a better connection, and before purchasing, be sure to consider the length you may need.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ETHERNET CABLES AND PRICING HERE 

If you have installed your own your conduit, Trailblazer's team of experts will assess your existing conduit to verify its suitability for fiber line placement and equipment installation. A pre-installation walkthrough will help determine the conduit's viability and identify any necessary additional work.

Not all existing conduit will be useable because:

1. Since we are running fiber optic cable instead of copper cabling, we are using a conduit that is best suited for housing and protecting our fiber.  
2. The existing conduit may not feed into a point of entry that allows for optimal equipment placement, so additional trenching or fiber may be needed, which may result in additional charges for custom placement.
3. Also, much of the existing conduit in Town belongs to other entities and providers.  If we ran fiber through their conduit and they chose to remove it, our fiber would be removed with it.  
4. IMPORTANT:  Trailblazer cannot utilize existing conduit owned and maintained by other service providers. 

See also:  How to Prepare New Construction for Trailblazer Broadband

Our team needs to leave the vehicle running to power the equipment necessary to splice the fiber to individual addresses. 

Installing a new utility network in an established community presents unique challenges, particularly in areas with rocky terrain, limited space, and complex landscaping. Our installation teams work meticulously to follow approved designs, especially in easements and HOA common areas. They make minimal adjustments only when absolutely necessary to preserve existing landscaping or when technical constraints prevent standard vault installation.

Once the network is installed, we do not plan to relocate fixtures in common areas. However, we remain flexible and open to collaboration. HOAs interested in reviewing the installation can request a site visit where we can estimate potential modification costs and explore alternative options beyond our standard buildout. Some homeowners have found creative solutions, such as landscaping around network vaults while maintaining essential access for future installation, repair, and maintenance needs. These approaches might include planting strategic bushes or installing removable decorative enclosures that blend with the existing environment.

If fiber in your area is run underground (typically following the same path as your electrical lines), Estes Park Power & Communications will complete locates before digging or trenching to lay the fiber.

Locates identify and label public utility lines that are underground. These lines may include cabling for telecommunication, electricity distribution, natural gas, cable television, fiber optics, traffic lights, street lights, storm drains, water mains, and wastewater pipes.

There is nothing you need to do, and there is no cost to you for this process. You may see different colors of flags or spray paint in your neighborhood as shown below.  To learn more about the process, you can go to 

colorado811.org/educational-resources.

All of our fiber and trenching contractors are DOT certified and must adhere to the DOT guidelines by carrying safety features such as fire-extinguishers in their vehicles. 

Vehicles are inspected and maintained to follow these guidelines to protect the safety of the crews and the community. 

Because Trailblazer Broadband is owned by the Town of Estes Park and operated by Estes Park Power & Communications, it is easy to ensure that your new build is equipped with the proper conduit for Trailblazer’s fiber-optic lines at the time of construction. 

The Power & Communications team reviews all new construction and remodeling plans for electrical installation.  During construction, your contractor can run conduit to make your new home Fiber-Ready for Trailblazer Broadband. Even if service isn’t available yet at your location, you can avoid future disruption to hardscape and landscaping. 

Fiber-ready conduit should be installed following your power feeds from the vault at your curb to your home. By coordinating with your contractor to trench and install the appropriate fiber-ready conduit ahead of time during the construction process, you will save the trouble of having Trailblazer’s fiber teams do a second trench to your home, which might have to cross finished surfaces such as driveways or walkways.  

IMPORTANT:  Existing conduit may or may not be useable for Trailblazer Broadband fiber installation.  

Please understand that placing conduit for fiber during construction does not always mean that you will have service immediately.  Your actual service availability will still be based on our overall Construction Schedule during which we run and test the fiber optic lines to your area.

We are making every effort to minimize disruption, but some trenching is necessary to run the fiber for our internet service.  

• We are following the path of existing electrical lines. 
• We also must follow existing easements which is why we may have to "cut through" a sidewalk or parking lot rather than going around it.  
• Crews utilize the least invasive trenching methods. Trenches will be filled when work is complete, results vary depending on the location and material. While it may seem odd that you will see a trench run through the middle of a road around town, that is actually the BEST location because it avoids lanes where disruption could cause tire damage as well as the edges of the asphalt on each side which is weaker than down the middle of the road.  
• Once trenching in asphalt is done, road surfaces will be resealed. After the top layer is applied, it is considered a permanent fix. 

In order to build our infrastructure, the main fiber network must be installed. Trailblazer does this by running fiber optic cable along the powerlines. As with all utility work, teams from Estes Park Power & Communications must access the utility easements at your location. For more information on utility easements follow this link for the Town of Estes Park information. 

After you sign up for service, we will also be running fiber lines from the curb to your home or business following the existing power lines, either overhead or underground.  

As always, Trailblazer appreciates your patience and cooperation as we complete this work as quickly and efficiently as possible while maintaining the integrity of your surrounding property to the best of our ability. 

You will select your installation date and time when you sign up for service. A confirmation email will be sent to you confirming the time and date of your installation. You can go into your Client Portal at any time to check the installation schedule if you forget. We will also contact you with an installation reminder approximately 3 days prior to installation. 

Our Trailblazer installer will arrive within the window that you have selected when you signed up for service online.  If there is a delay, we will give you a call and let you know.  

If you need to change your appointment or need further assistance, please call our Customer Support team at 970-577-3770.

After you sign up for service, fiber is connected from the terminal to your residence following your existing power feed either overhead or underground.

• Overhead feeds will be done on the day of your scheduled installation (you are asked to be home for installation).

• Underground work occurs between service sign-up and your scheduled interior installation (you do not need to be home for this). 

• For underground, expect locates from Utilities marked by flags or paint in your area.  

• Please move any obstacles between your home and the fiber terminal, e.g., vehicles, RVs, planters, etc.  

• Crews utilize the least invasive trenching methods. Trenches will be filled when work is complete, results vary depending on the location and material.  

• Once trenching in asphalt is done, road surfaces will have at least one layer of Mastic to seal them, so water won’t penetrate and damage the road. After the top layer is applied, it is considered a permanent fix. Mastic is not just a tar, or crack sealant. It is considered an asphalt replacement, used by highway departments and airports regularly for long-term use. 

See also:  What are all the flags and markings in my neighborhood/yard? 

Make sure you're home during the installation. The installer will need to drill a small hole from outside to and fiber will run through a wall plate on the interior. Think about where you'd like the equipment placed—ideally near an electrical outlet and away from devices that might cause interference. The standard installation covers specific distances, so if you have special requests, contact us ahead of time. Read more about installation in our Standard Installation Terms.

You will need to be present for your in-home installation, and we ask that you plan to be there for the entire installation process.  

If you absolutely cannot be there, you can designate someone to be there instead of you; however, we highly recommend that you try to be there yourself because we want to ensure that you are pleased with the process and equipment location.  

During installation, the installers will work with you to establish the placement of your broadband equipment as well as the wall plate where the fiber enters your home. You, or the person you designate, will be asked to sign off at the end of the appointment that the installation has been completed to your satisfaction.  

If you require changes or an additional service call after the installation appointment, additional charges may apply, so it's important to get it right the first time.

If you need to change your installation appointment, simply call our Customer Support team at 970-577-3770. They will assist you in finding a new date and time that works for you. After you select a new appointment, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It’s best to contact us as soon as possible to ensure we can accommodate your request. You will receive a confirmation email shortly after rescheduling. Additionally, you can log into your account online at any time to check your installation schedule. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to call our Customer Support team at 970-577-3770.

You can work with the installer at the time of installation to select the best location for your broadband equipment and the wall plate where it enters your home.   

Every home and installation is a bit different, but I can tell you that the standard installation will include a maximum of 30 feet of fiber on the exterior of your home. 

• Interior installation will require drilling a small hole on the exterior of the home to the interior.
• A junction box will be mounted to the exterior and fiber will run through a wall plate on the interior.
• Your installer will review options for the optimal interior location of your equipment based on:
  • Where you use your internet most.
  • Placement near an electrical outlet.
  • At least 3 feet away from any appliances or wireless devices that may cause interference (e.g. Microwaves, Cordless Phones, Baby Monitors, Older Electronic Equipment etc.).
  • A maximum of 20 feet from the point where fiber enters the interior.
  • On the main or central level of your home. 

The Town of Estes Park's Power & Communications department handles all installations with their in-house fiber team. You can expect professional service throughout the process.

When you sign up for Trailblazer service, the cost of leasing the Nokia Gateway, which acts as both a modem and router, is included in your package. If you choose the Mountaineer Package, you'll also get WiFi (a $6.95/month value) at no extra charge. While you can use your own modem and router, we recommend our equipment for better performance and support. If needed, additional Nokia Beacons can be added to enhance WiFi coverage throughout your home. That need will be determined during your installation. 

Yes, you can use your own wireless router during installation. However, we can't guarantee the same speeds or performance, and we won't provide support for third-party equipment. Our Nokia Gateway is included in your service and is designed for optimal performance.It may be possible to set up your router in bridge mode with our Nokia Gateway, to pair your network hardware with Trailblazer's modem-router combo unit. Bridge mode is a networking feature that enables two routers to coexist without any issues. Once it is enabled on the router, the extended router essentially creates a mesh network that can extend your Wi-Fi coverage.It is our goal to set up your service to your satisfaction during the installation appointment.  We will connect to your existing router and ensure that your internet is functioning properly.  If there is a custom request or something unusual about your existing configuration that requires additional time or a return visit, an additional fee may apply.

See Also:  “What is Trailblazer Wifi and Why do I need it?”

You can hardwire your computer or another device directly one of the ethernet ports on the back of the Gateway with an ethernet cable. We recommend Cat 6a ethernet cable. Many people choose a hardwired connection because it is typically faster than any WiFi connection and may be more secure as well.  

See Also: What ethernet cable is best for hardwiring devices to Trailblazer Broadband’s Nokia Gateway?

When fiber is initially installed, the fiber location is pre-determined by our fiber team for maximum efficiency and to align with our standard installation guidelines. Running fiber within the home according to those standard parameters is what allows us to offer free installation with our Mountaineer Discount Package.  

When changes or custom fiber runs are requested the $89.95 installation fee applies. Another alternative is to leave the fiber where it is, and our installation team can look into adding a beacon to ensure the best Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. Beacons are provided for $5/month with a $25 activation fee per beacon, which may be better and less expensive than moving the fiber.  

The type of Ethernet cable you use can have an impact on your internet connection and speeds. For home equipment, Cat 6a is more than sufficient, even for gaming,

Trailblazer provides a CAT 6 ethernet cable (recommended) at the time of installation to connect the Gateway at no additional charge. If you're purchasing more ethernet cables for other connections, be sure to consider the length you may need.  Trailblazer also recommends that you buy pure copper rather than copper-clad aluminum because it will give you a better connection.  All of the cables cost approximately $10 - $20 depending on the length.  

Standard Cat 6 cables support the same speeds as Cat 5e but give you more than double the bandwidth. The higher bandwidth helps reduce download and upload times, especially if you are transferring files from one computer to another via a Cat 6 cable.  This cable is also "shielded" to reduce crosstalk and sign interference.  If you are planning on buying more Cat 6 cable, it runs about $10 to $15 for a 12-foot cable.

OTHER OPTIONS:

• Cat 5e is the current industry standard and the lowest “grade” capable of supporting GIG internet and it is built to reduce crosstalk which can occur with the signal between cables; however, Cat 6 cable is preferable.
• Cat 6a supports 1 GIG speeds and higher bandwidth for faster downloads and uploads.  It’s also safe to say this cable will support your high-speed internet connection for years to come, even as faster cable and fiber-optic internet speeds become available. Plus, all Cat 6a and higher cables feature shielding designed to eliminate crosstalk almost entirely.
• Cat 7 are very similar to Cat 6a aside from slightly higher bandwidth which allows for faster data transfers if you plan on downloading or uploading large files.
• Cat 8 is the most modern, fastest Ethernet cable standard available today. Although it has more speed and bandwidth than Cat6a or Cat7, it is mostly used in data centers and server rooms for switch-to-switch communications. Cat8 cable can be difficult to install and overkill for most home applications.

Custom install charges apply for work beyond a standard installation. Standard installs include exterior fiber installation that follows the electric service path to the premise and the simplest entry method inside the premise near an electric outlet in a climate controlled space. Custom Install hourly rate recovers the cost of 1 Technician and vehicle (1 hour minimum). Materials costs are recovered at the per foot of additional interior fiber cable installed. After-hours/overtime charges may apply. All Custom Installations are subject to payment prior to completion of the installation.

For some large (3,500+ square feet) and complex properties as well as business locations, a Custom Site Review is recommended to ensure the most efficient installation. If you feel a custom site review may apply to your property. Call our Customer Support Team at 970-577-3770. 

There is no cost to you for the site review; however, we ask that you sign up for service and pay the standard deposit equal to one month of service to secure your spot.  At that time, we will schedule your site review as well as your installation.  

After the site review, if you are not satisfied with the plan or if any custom charges apply, you can cancel your sign-up and get a refund of your full deposit as long as no work has been completed. We are committed to your satisfaction and want you to have all the information you need to become a satisfied Trailblazer customer.

With Trailblazer Broadband, you will have the fastest, most reliable internet service in Estes Park, which gives you the freedom to choose TV and phone services that can save you quite a bit over traditional cable and phone plans. 

Purchasing high-speed internet and adding phone and streaming services separately is often more cost-effective and flexible than traditional bundles. Here's why:

1. Declining Bundle Discounts: Many providers have reduced or eliminated bundle discounts, making separate services more appealing.

2. Customization: You can choose exactly what you need without paying for unnecessary components.

3. Competitive Streaming Options: Services like Sling TV can be cheaper than traditional cable TV.

4. Avoid Hidden Fees: Streaming services typically have straightforward pricing without additional taxes and fees.

5. No Long-Term Contracts: Most internet-only and streaming plans offer flexibility without commitments.

6. Tailored Phone Solutions: VoIP services or mobile phones can replace landlines, further reducing costs.

This approach allows for greater flexibility and often results in lower overall costs compared to traditional bundles. Learn more about getting: 

STREAMING TV SERVICE

VoIP PHONE SERVICE

Trailblazer Broadband does not directly provide phone service. However, there are a couple of attractive alternative phone options. 

• Cell Phone Only: Many customers choose to use their mobile phone exclusively. With more reliable internet from Trailblazer, one option is to eliminate your landline and use your cell phone only.  As of the end of 2022, the NCHS estimates that 73.2% of adults in the US live in homes without a landline. 
• VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Services: These internet-based phone services are an excellent landline replacement.

VoIP Options

Although we don't recommend any servcie in particular, some popular VoIP providers include:

• Vonage Home
• Ooma
• Callcentric
• Google Voice

Key Benefits of VoIP Services

• Often less expensive than traditional phone services
• Works over your internet connection
• Typically allow you to keep your existing phone number
• Provide features like international calling and mobile apps

Important Considerations

• These services work through your internet connection
• No additional phone line infrastructure is required
• Easily set up with your existing Trailblazer Broadband service

Learn More

By partnering with MyBundle.TV, Trailblazer Broadband empowers its customers to make informed decisions about their streaming options, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually while enjoying their preferred content.  MyBundle.TV is a valuable service that simplifies the process of finding and managing streaming options for Trailblazer Broadband customers. 

Here's how it works:

1. Personalized Recommendations: The free "Find My Bundle" tool asks users about their viewing preferences and creates tailored streaming package recommendations.

2. Cost Savings: MyBundle helps users save money by identifying the most cost-effective combination of streaming services that meet their needs.

3. Comprehensive Channel Selection: Users can choose their must-have channels from a wide range of options, including popular networks and genre-specific contenrt.

4. Flexible Options: MyBundle presents three main options:

   • ALL MY CHANNELS: Includes 100% of selected channels

   • BEST/GREAT VALUE: Offers many selected channels at a lower cost

   • BUILD MY BUNDLE: Allows for custom selection of individual services

5. Streaming Management: Users can create a free profile to track subscriptions, monthly costs, and available promotions.

6. Freedom of Choice: There's no obligation to purchase, and users can subscribe directly to streaming providers through MyBundle if they choose.

7. Content Discovery: The MyBundle App helps users find new shows and movies across their subscriptions, simplifying the search process.

LEARN MORE

Three steps to streaming all your TV (even Live TV and local channels)

When you cut the cable cord, you experience a lot of freedom. 

You can choose which live TV streaming platform you want to use and how you want to watch your shows. 

You’ll watch your favorite content from any device you want. 

And you’ll never have to look at those overpriced cable TV bills again. 

Before you disconnect the coax cable and shred those bills, you’ll want to take three easy steps to make sure you have the best streaming experience possible. 

Step 1—Get high-speed internet from Trailblazer Broadband. Streaming is best when it's paired with fast, reliable fiber internet. With Trailblazer, you’ll have the speed and bandwidth to stream on multiple devices throughout your home.

Step 2—Find the streaming device you want. If you have a Smart TV, that may be all you need. If not, you can choose from several options, like the Roku or Amazon’s Firestick. Each is a bit different in what it offers, but they’re all reasonably priced, meaning you can turn any TV in your home into the ultimate streaming device. Remember, you can stream from computers, tablets, and iPhones, too!

Step 3 - Take the Find My Bundle quiz to find your perfect streaming bundle. Whether you’re a live sports fan or just need your favorite shows and news, MyBundle takes the guesswork out of finding the right streaming platform.

Absolutely, 1 gig internet can support 4K and 8K video streaming, which means you can enjoy crystal-clear visuals and immersive audio.You can expect near-instant buffering. This means that you won’t have to wait for what feels like an eternity for your favorite show or movie to start playing.

Please keep in mind that not all devices support 4K or 8K streaming, and older devices may struggle to process high-resolution videos. For example, if you’re playing Mario Kart on an old Nintendo 64 gaming console, you won’t be getting 4K resolution.

It's a Smart TV if: 

• It has built-in apps like NetFlix, Vudu, Pandora, Amazon Prime Video, etc.? 
• It connects to the WiFi to access the internet for streaming and/or other purposes?
• It has a network port on the back of the TV set. Usually this is labeled ‘LAN’.

Even if you don't have a smart TV, you can often still connect a “smart” device to it, like a Roku “set-top box,” or Roku stick, FireTV stick, etc. 

You can connect your TV either via cable from this port to an identical port on your internet router (the Nokia Gateway that is provided with your Trailblazer Broadband service). 

The other option is to to enable the ‘WLAN’ (Wireless LAN) / ‘WiFi’ option in the menu of your TV and connect to your Trailblazer WiFi network with the user name and password provided during installation. 

Currently, all new Trailblazer customers who have not had service with us before are eligible for the Mountaineer Discount Package.  We have extended this discount package through our main construction process. 

With the Mountaineer Package, you'll get up to 1 Gbps Upload and Download speeds at $69.95 which is
$20 off the standard monthly charge of $89.95. WiFi is included and the standard $89.95 activation fee is waived. There are no other taxes, fees or hidden charges added to this monthly rate, unless you need a wifi extender at the time of installation.

LEARN MORE

During the build-out and construction phase of Trailblazer Broadband, all first-time residential customers are offered the Mountaineer Discount plan. You pay only $69.95 per month for symmetrical speed of 1 GIG for uploads and downloads, which is a $20 savings off the standard rate.  This is for internet service, including Wifi (a $6.95/month value), the lease of your equipment, with no additional taxes or hidden fees.  The service activation fee of $89.95 is waived, so it's a substantial saving for you.   As of now, no end date has been set for this discount offering. As a Mountaineer customer, you will always have a lower rate than the standard published price as long as your account at that location remains open and in good standing.

Generally speaking, the need for 10 GIG in a home environment is somewhat rare.  The real advantage of 10 GIG is to allow you to perform many high bandwidth functions quickly at the same time.  To put it in perspective, 10 GIG will let you download a 4K movie in less than 30 seconds or you could stream around 1,700 movies simultaneously.

Trailblazer's 10 GIG Package Details:

•     $159.95/mo with $159.95 activation fee
•     Up to 10 Gbps upload and download, Wifi not available
•     Requires device with 10 GigE port (provided with our Gateway) 
•     Actual throughput depends on your device capabilities and other remote device limitations. 
•     This is the fastest residential internet service available in the US.

10 GIG internet is best suited for people who:

1. Are uploading and downloading a lot of data/files/games/movies and want to do it very quickly. 
2. Have multiple users who require fast speeds simultaneously.  
3. Work from home and wants a dedicated 1 GIG to their computer even while teenagers in the house are downloading movies and video games.  
4. Own several 4K TVs that would be streaming simultaneously.

Reliable high-speed internet is essential to running a business in today’s competitive marketplace, whether you are a local small business, a world renowned 5-star hotel or anything in between. In fact, the reliability and bandwidth of a company’s internet can have a large impact on its overall success – from operations to customer service.

Currently, Trailblazer Broadband serves over 340 area businesses. Investing in better internet is an investment in your business and also in our town. All Trailblazer business clients benefit because business traffic is always prioritized on the network. Technical Support for businesses is prioritized as well because we know your business depends on it.

Business rates are customized to the unique needs of the your organization. 

All businesses have basic WiFi capability included with their package and routed through the Nokia Gateway that Trailblazer provides as part of its service. This Wifi service is sufficient for streaming music and connecting a few devices, similar to what you might expect from a residential Wifi service.  

Beyond that, Trailblazer does not provide managed WiFi or networking services for businesses.  If you have more complex Wifi requirements and configurations, those would need to be managed internally or through the support of an independent IT management company of your choice.

Contact Trailblazer about connecting your business at 970-577-3770. 

 LEARN MORE 

If you intend to connect more than one device to your new Trailblazer Broadband service, it is important to have Wifi in your home, so you can connect devices in various rooms without cords.

Trailblazer's managed WiFi is the best WiFi option with our service because it allows our Trailblazer Broadband team to support you better through remote troubleshooting and improved network performance, utilizing cloud-based monitoring and administrative tools. After installation, it also allows you to log into your online account anytime to check your internet speed or the usage of various devices you have connected in your home. 

Although they are not necessary in most cases, some Trailblazer clients may need one or more Nokia Beacons, which connect to the main ONT or Gateway to provide a strong WiFi signal throughout the home or office.  This will be determined during the installation process in most cases.  If needed, a Beacon will be added to your service for $5/month and a one-time $25 activation fee.

The standard activation fee for service is $89.95; however, if you are able to take advantage of our Mountaineer Discount during Trailblazer's buildout phase, that fee will be waived.

Because we are building the fastest, most reliable all-fiber network for the Estes Park area, our motto is "Everybody Gets a GIG."  We are building out this network at the lowest possible cost to our subscribers, and we want to connect our community with the best possible internet service.  You can actually SAVE money by subscribing to Trailblazer Broadband. 

We encourage you to look at the bottom line of your current internet bill.  After taxes, fees and other ancillary costs, the actual monthly fee is often the same or higher than our current Mountaineer Discount Plan Price of $69.95.  That is the total monthly cost for our 1 GIG internet service including basic wifi and equipment leasing.  There are no hidden fees added on and no long-term commitments.
With better internet, you may also be able to save on your TV costs by trading in cable for streaming TV, and exploring less expensive phone options.

We do offer a Seasonal Hold option for part-time residents.  Please note that this option is for residential service only and does not apply to businesses.  

Here’s how it works: 

• During the seasonal hold period, your service bandwidth will be dialed back to around 6 Mbps which is just enough to run a security system or perhaps check email.  
• You can activate seasonal hold one time during a 12-month period.  
• The minimum hold period is one (1) month and the maximum is six (6) months. 
• The cost for service during the seasonal hold is $19.95/month. 
• There is an activation fee for initiating the season hold, which is $29.95 for customers who have had continuous Trailblazer service for a minimum of 12 months.  For those who have had service for less that 12 months at the time the seasonal hold is activated, the activation fee is $89.95. 
  • The Seasonal Hold activation fee allows us to offer the seasonal hold and still cover our upfront costs for building out the fiber network.  Essentially, we are recouping the installation fee that was waived when you signed up for service. After the first year of seasonal hold, you won't be charged that $89.95 again on this account; the admin fee is only  $29.95 for subsequent years. 
• The activation fee is charged at the beginning of the seasonal hold period.        
• A seasonal hold period will start on the 1st of the designated month and can be reactivated any day of the returning month. Service fees for a partial month are prorated. You will be billed the prorated monthly fees at the time of reactivation. 
• We ask that you provide your start and end date at the beginning of the seasonal hold period, but you can adjust the end of the hold later on if your plans change, as long as the total hold period does not exceed 6 months.  
• Autopay is required.

If you’d like to institute the seasonal hold for your account,  please email support@TrailblazerBroadband.com or call our office at 970-577-3770 Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Service will be offered on a month-to-month basis with no long term contracts.

Mountaineer customers will always have a lower rate than the standard published price as long as your account at that location remains open and in good standing. At this point, we have no plans to increase prices in the future. 

If you've ever watched a video on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or YouTube on you computer or TV, you are already streaming! Instead of locking you into a single TV offering with our internet service, Trailblazer Broadband gives you the freedom to choose from many streaming options so you can watch what you actually like. 

Learn how it works here.

Trailblazer offers you the freedom to choose your phone service depending on your current needs at prices that are lower than what we could offer in an internet bundle.  There are really two main options: 

1. More and more people are choosing to use their cell phones and give up home phones (landlines) altogether. Some also use a free internet service such as Skype, FaceTime or Google Hangouts for video calls that doesn’t require any additional hardware or set up.  You simply use an app on your phone or download the software to your computer, laptop or tablet. 
2. If you prefer to keep your home phone, internet phone service is economical and just as easy to set up as the land line phone service that you have right now.  The only difference is it works over the internet instead of a traditional phone line.  Learn more here.  

Currently, we don't have a low-cost program in place, as the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program has ended, and Lifeline doesn't apply to us since we do not offer phone service. 

We're exploring the development of our own discount program for eligible households and monitoring for new government-funded initiatives. While we don't have a specific timeline, we're committed to creating affordable options and will announce them as soon as they're available.

We have found that many customers prefer to have an email account that will move with them rather than being tied to their internet service.  If you're looking for more email information, you may want to look at this article on the Best Email Services for 2025.

Since Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo and others offer free e-mail accounts that are easy to set up, those are great options. You can find easy setup instructions online for each of those services:  

Set up Gmail 

Set up Microsoft Outlook (formerly Hotmail) Email

Set up Yahoo Email

At this time, Static IP addresses are only available with a commercial Trailblazer Broadband account. 

To include a Static IP, you have the option to upgrade to a home business account which is 1 Gpbs Up/Down, no data caps or contracts, and we can waive the installation/activation fee as with your home installation barring any custom work needed.  Please contact Customer Support at 970-577-3770 or info@TrailblazerBroadband.com for more information.  

We know this isn’t the update you were hoping for—and if you’ve been waiting months or even years for service, we want to start by saying: we see you. We hear the frustration, and we truly wish we could flip a switch and bring high-speed fiber to every doorstep today.

But here’s the honest update.

Trailblazer has completed most of the mainline construction throughout Estes Park and along our primary routes to Glen Haven, and Allenspark. These are the backbone connections that make the rest of the network possible but we still have a lot left to build to be able to install at your address. But if you’re in one of the more remote or lower-density parts of the valley, you’re likely in Phase 4 of our buildout—the last and most difficult phase.

Right now, construction in Phase 4 is on pause. And that’s not because we’ve forgotten you. It’s because:

• Our original funding is exhausted. Rising costs, supply chain issues, and inflation have stretched our initial construction budget beyond what was expected.

• We’re still financially strong—but limited. Trailblazer is covering its operational costs and bond obligations without raising rates or using tax dollars. But we haven’t been operating long enough to generate the kind of surplus needed to fund major new construction.

• We’re actively pursuing grant funding. We’ve applied for every qualifying rural broadband grant available at the state and federal levels. While we’re hopeful, the process is slow, competitive, and doesn’t fully cover the gaps.

What’s the Plan?

Once grant funding can be secured, we'll be focusing our build efforts on areas that qualify for grant support—because every dollar we bring in there helps move the entire network forward. In general, we prioritize future areas based on cost, community interest (your registrations really do matter!), and construction feasibility.

We’ve also moved new construction in-house. This saves costs long-term but does slow us down in the short term.

If you’re in a more remote or rugged part of the valley—or even just in a neighborhood where the numbers don’t yet justify the cost to build—you’re still on our map. But we need more time and more funding to get there.

So… When?

If you don’t yet have service, you’re in Construction Phase 4—and we simply don’t have a timeline right now. We know that’s hard to hear, especially when you've waited so long already. We promise: you haven’t been forgotten, and we’ll contact you the moment we have updates.

What You Can Do

You can help move this forward:

• Register to Stay Informed – https://trailblazerbroadband.com/ to receive all the latest updates. 
  (It helps us know where interest is highest!)

• Like us on Facebook to receive more information.

• Check for Updates – [Trailblazer News Page & Construction Schedule]

• Reach out to Congressman Joe Neguse
  Share your experience. Ask for his continued support for rural broadband funding.

From One Neighbor to Another

We know this has been a long road. Some of you have been incredibly patient. Others are feeling rightfully discouraged. No matter where you are in that mix—we’re with you. We live here too. We’ve built Trailblazer not as a big telecom, but as a local utility with a long-term community mission: to connect all of us.

We still believe in that mission, and we’re not stopping until it’s done.

Thank you for hanging in there with us.

Still have questions? Give us a call or drop us a note. We’re always here to talk.

For Email: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-C3RXuXn1TIwYcZ6nWyD_E2po4sgGDKxCfga6TxlJnI/edit

NOTE: For detailed information on specific locations within Phase 4 visit https://trailblazerbroadband.com/construction-schedule

We have divided the project into four major phases, each of which targets several different areas

for service.  We are currently in the final phase of construction, and service is available to over 90% of the Estes Valley. 

Our construction plan follows the power grid, connecting a certain number of homes and

businesses to central fiber locations or cabinets. In some cases, the dividing line between

phases, power lines, and cabinets is such that one property will have service before another adjacent property. 

I can understand that might be frustrating if your property is scheduled for a later time frame, but

we are trying to work as quickly and efficiently as possible, so we appreciate your patience as

we move forward.

To make sure that you stay informed as the build-out continues, there are 3 things you can do: 

1. Register for interest at https://trailblazerbroadband.com/ to receive all the latest updates.  
2. Like us on Facebook to receive more information.
3. Visit our Construction Schedule to see if time frames have changed.
4. See Service is Not Available Now, When Can I Expect it?  

If you are building a new home or structure within our service area, we recommend ensuring the conduit for fiber internet is placed at the same time as your electrical lines.  

Please understand, that doesn't mean that you will have service immediately.  Your actual service availability will still be based on our Construction Schedule.  However, if conduits are in place for the fiber, you will be ahead of the game when service is available in your area.  

If you are planning new construction please review our Contractor Support webpage and share it with your contractor. 

Also, we recommend that you contact our Trailblazer Customer Support line at 970-577-3770 or email us at support@trailblazerbroadband.com, so we can make note of your plans and answer any further questions.  

Unlike other providers, as a municipal provider, we must obtain HOA approval to build our service lines on common property outside utility easements before we can provide you with Trailblazer service.

As we are nearing the last phase of our fiber internet buildout, we have coordinated with most HOA's in the area to complete the main construction process in the neighborhood so that individual HOA members can have Trailblazer Broadband installed at their residences.  

Call us at 970-577-3770 to determine the the status of construction in your particular HOA. 

There are 3 scenarios: 

Scenario 1 - Service is Available:

Your HOA is in a service-available location and the HOA has approved Trailblazer for your community, so I can get you signed up for service right away.  Due to high demand, we are scheduling installations several weeks out at this point, so please contact us to secure your installation appointment as soon as possible. 

Scenario 2 - Service Has Been Approved by the HOA, but construction is not yet complete

Your HOA has approved Trailblazer for your community, however, there is still construction to be completed before we can get residents signed up for service.  

Scenario 3 - Your HOA has not yet completed the permission process to allow Trailblazer Broadband to run fiber in your community.  

In this case, we encourage you to speak with your HOA officers and to let the HOA know that you are very interested in having Trailblazer Broadband service at your home.  As soon as the HOA gives this permission, our team will let us know when the remaining construction can begin.  In the meantime, I encourage you to register with us to stay informed and we will alert you as soon as we can offer service to your address. 

In building a world-class broadband infrastructure, we want to make sure we do it right. We started the project in 2019, and as of 2024 year end, service is available to approximatley 82% of the planned service locations with the remainder being in harder to build or more rural locations.  

There are 3 main considerations: customer density, constructability and our mountains. As you can imagine, we face unique challenges building through our beloved mountains and rocky terrain to serve an area larger than Fort Collins, Loveland and Longmont combined.

For those reasons and to ensure sustainability for all concerned, we appreciate your patience, understanding, and support of the project as we move toward your area. To see our current service areas approximately when your area is slated to receive service, please refer to our planned Construction Schedule. Also, click here to read about areas where service is not available yet.  

A good portion of downtown is now eligible for service! To see if your location is eligible and to find out more about where Trailblazer is working around the valley, see our Construction Schedule Page. If you are a downtown business owner interested in service, we encourage you to contact us at 970-577-3770 to get a quote.

Sign up and installation will be easy, with minimal equipment installed by the Town’s dedicated fiber technicians. The simplest way to sign up for service is to call our local Customer Support Team here in Estes Park at 

970-570-3770.  

We also encourage you to Register to Stay Informed on our website. If service is available in your area when you register, you will receive an email with a customized link to sign up for service online. If you're not ready to sign up for service today or if service is not available in your area, you will receive periodic updates about our progess, and an email invitation to sign up when service becomes available at your address. 

Renters are welcome to sign up for service, however, we need landlord or property owner permission for us to install fiber in your rental property.  We will send your landlord the appropriate forms to authorize fiber installation.  

Unless your landlord has stipulated something different, you, as the tenant, will sign up for Trailblazer Broadband service in your name and will be responsible for being present for the service installation and responsible for payment of the account and equipment. You can sign up now and choose an installation date with the understanding that we will need to secure your landlord's permission prior to that installation date. 

No problem! Call our Customer Support team at 970-577-3770, and they will sign you up over the phone or resend the link to provide you with access to sign up online, whichever you prefer. 

If you have an internet connection, or using your cell phone, please refer to status.trailblazerbroadband.com for overall system status.  This is where you will find an indication of a partial or global system outage.  Please also remember that Technical Support by Phone is always available to you at 970-577-3770, #1. 

You can troubleshoot your home system with the following simple steps: 

- Ensure power is connected to all devices
- Ensure power button is switched to “On” on your modem (ONT)
- Confirm that all cables are plugged in properly. To be sure, you may want to disconnect and reconnect them.
- Check for power & service indicator lights
- Ensure you are connected to the proper WiFi system.
- Logout and back into your WiFi system (if you need your password, it can be found or reset from within your broadband account at https://portal.trailblazerbroadband.com)

Finally, download a copy of of our Troubleshooting Guide here for future reference.  

Please also remember that Technical Support by Phone is always available to you at 970-577-3770, #1.

• ONE OR 2 SENTENCES  - WHAT YOU WILL BE LEFT WITH AFTER INSTALLATION

• During installation, Trailblazer technicians will:

  • Install fiber and set up the Nokia Gateway

  • Ensure internet and WiFi are operational

  • Provide additional Beacons if needed for full coverage

  • Because most homes have numerous internet devices, we are not able to connect or configure all devices during the time allocated for installation.

• After Installation: IF YOUR DEVICE IS NOT WORKING BUT YOUR INTERNET IS.. OR FOR HOME NETWORKING HERE ARE OTHER OPTIONS 

• For internet issues, call Trailblazer's 24/7/365 support at 970-577-3770, #1.

• For device-specific connectivity, consult your device's instructions.

• For complex setups like home networking systems, smart home devices, or numerous devices, consider:

  • For local assistance, you may want to ask family and friends... contactspecialized local tech support companies (Trailblazer is not affiliate with nor does it endorse any specific organization on this list.)

  • Asking friends or family for assistance

  • Using larger tech support resources:

• Geek Squad (at Best Buy) has a Free Virtual Consultation at 1-800-548-0828  or you can call 
• Geeksonsite.com (Ft. Collins) 1-888-360-4335
• HelloTech.com  Nationwide at 1-833-599-5711 

To conduct the most accurate speed test on your Trailblazer Broadband service go to testspeed.trailblazerbroadband.com.  

Keep in mind that when running a speed test, the most accurate reading of internet performance is when you test from an updated device that is directly connected to your Nokia Gateway with an ethernet cable rather than over WiFi.  The speed is also dependent on the capability of your device and how many other devices are connected and running simultaneously.  

Please know that just because you don't always see a reading of 1000 Mbps, it doesn't necessarily mean that your internet is not working correctly.    

Signing into your account is easy! 

1. Go to https://portal.trailblazerbroadband.com/crm
2. Enter you User Name, which is usually the primary email address on your account that you entered upon registration and sign up. 
3. Enter your password, or if you don't remember it, click on Forgot Password.  An email will be sent to your primary email address with reset instructions.  

Due to the numerous WiFi devices and configurations available, we do not have specific instructions for all the various devices. For full support, refer to the user manual for your device for more specific instructions. 

Although each device is somewhat different, these simple steps should help you get you connected.
On your device:
- Go to Settings
- Select the option most closely related to one of the following: Network - Connectivity - Internet Connection
- Select WiFi Connection option
- When prompted, enter the WiFi name and password that are listed in your Trailblazer Broadband account
- Wait for the indication that the device is “connected”

You can perform these same steps in a wired configuration by connecting your device to the modem with an ethernet cable.
If you want to connect a device that does not have built-in WiFi connectivity, you can purchase a WiFi adapter that plugs into your device's USB port.

1. Try a quick reset of your router and devices.
2. If possible, move around to reduce interference from devices (microwaves) and obstacles (concrete floors and walls) and to be closer to your Nokia Gateway.  
3. Reduce network traffic (the number of users and/or devices) to increase WiFi speeds. 
4. Ensure that your devices are capable of the desired speeds and that the operating systems on those devices are up to date.  
5. Consider switching to a wired connection for maximum speed. You’ll be able to extract the maximum possible out of your internet package if you plug into your router; it’s much harder to do that on wireless, especially the further you move from your router.
6. Call Trailblazer’s 24 x 7 Tech Support at 970-577-3770 to diagnose any issues that could be impacting your WiFi speeds.

Your Trailblazer Broadband service is providing you with 1 GIG of bandwidth and is capable of speeds up to 1 GIG (1000 Mbps - megabits per second).  

When you're using multiple devices at once, each on is using a portion of your 1 GIG bandwidth.  

Perhaps think of it as having a 1 GIG loaf of bread.  Each device you use at the same time takes a "slice" of your bandwidth.  If you only have one GIG-enabled device hardwired to your Gateway, you will see your highest speeds, closest to 1000 Mbps. If you connect 2 devices, you may see 400 - 500 Mbps on each.  If you have 8 - 10 devices connected over WiFi in various parts of your home, it is reasonable to see speeds of up to 100 Mbps on each one.  

Keep in mind that some devices are not built for GIG speed, and when you're using WiFi versus a hardwired connection, speeds will always be somewhat slower. 

Beacon Performance

Also, if you have a beacon or two in addition to your gateway, it can take approximately 24 hours for the beacon to "learn" the best connectivity for providing WiFi, so you may not get the best results immediately.  If you feel your new beacon is not optimized, give it about 24 hours to acclimate.  After that, if you still feel it isn't functioning properly, give us a call.  

Battery backups, also called Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), are a good idea for computers, modems, and home office equipment that has potentially sensitive data. Plus, battery backups also allow you keep the internet (and your internet-based phone system, if you have one) up and running during a power outage.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BATTERY BACKUPS

Our status page is designed to reflect the operation of our core network at any given time. That page doesn't indicate the status of service at each individual location unless there is global disruption.  

For example, any individual customer's service may be out for a variety of reasons, such as:  

• Home remodeling where they disconnected the Nokia Gateway 
• A new puppy who chewed through the fiber line 
• A woodpecker that caused fiber damage to a targeted location.  

In each of these cases - all of which have actually happened - we will notify the affected customer(s) by phone and email to communicate any information we have and to troubleshoot the issue.  

Our rule of thumb is to place an alert on status.trailblazerbroadband.com if approximately 15 customers or more customers are without service. 

We are always committed to being responsive and restoring service as quickly as we can.   We always notify our on-call team so they can evaluate the situation immediately. Business has priority, generally fixed today.  Residential is next business day, larger outage is dependent on the cause and how long it takes to fix it.  

The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers and servers that provides access to vast amounts of information and resources worldwide. It is the broader network that allows devices to communicate with each other and access online services.

WiFi, on the other hand, is a type of wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to a local area network (LAN) or the Internet without using physical cables. WiFi is a means of accessing the Internet wirelessly, but it can also be used for local networking without an Internet connection. WiFi is not capable of providing the same speed as a wired connection.

In short, the Internet is the service, while WiFi is one of the methods used to connect to it.

Upload speed is how fast your data is sent from you to others. Uploading is necessary for sending big files via email, file-sharing or in using video-chat to talk to someone else online, since you have to send your video feed to them.

The demand for increased upload speeds has become important as more and more people are video conferencing, telecommuting and keeping in touch via the internet through applications like Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, etc. 

Imagine your internet connection as a highway. Bandwidth is like the number of lanes on this highway. More lanes mean more cars (data) can travel at the same time without slowing down.

• 1-lane road: 1 Mbps. Downloading a 5 MB file takes about 50 seconds. All traffic slows down if there's too much data.

• 5-lane highway: 5 Mbps. The same file downloads in about 10 seconds. Multiple devices can use the internet without slowing each other down.

Internet Speed is how fast these cars (data packets) move on the highway. With a fast connection like Trailblazer's 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps), many devices can use the internet simultaneously without causing congestion, ensuring all data moves quickly. However, actual speeds can vary based on your connection type (wired or WiFi) and device capabilities.