BOULDER , located northwest of Denver on is an idyllic college town at the base of the Flatiron Mountains. Its young population creates a slightly bohemian culture, with a liberal bent attracting intellectuals, individualists and radicals. The town was founded by a prospecting party in 1858 as a central hub for miners and farmers. Northwest of the campus, is the Pearl Street Mall which is lined with restaurants, bars and shops. Southeast is the National Center for Atmospheric Research which houses an art gallery. Westward, the Flatiron Range forms a picture perfect backdrop framing the city.