Experience the many recreational and cultural opportunities that will increase your awareness and appreciation of our natural and cultural resources in Boulder County region. Enjoy hikes, indoor programs, special events, seniors hikes and family friendly programs. The county prioritizes the conservation of open space lands for the protection of critical wildlife habitats, protecting farms and ranches and creating quality recreational experiences. Experience for yourself the many recreational and cultural opportunities that make Boulder County such a remarkable place to live and visit.
Wildflowers of Caribou Ranch
Saturday, July 6; 9:00am to noon
Caribou Ranch Open Space; 2 miles north of Nederland on County Road 126
Escape the summer heat and enjoy beautiful wildflowers! Volunteer naturalists will be available along the 4.2 miles (roundtrip) of easy-moderate trails to help you identify and learn about the wildflowers as you explore the beautiful montane forest, meadows, and wetland landscape. Participants should be prepared to hike at an elevation of about 8,500 feet, and bring a rain poncho and drinking water.
Night Hike at Walker Ranch
Tuesday, July 9; 8:00pm to 10:00pm
Walker Ranch; approximately 7 miles west of Boulder on Flagstaff Road; meet at the Meyers Homestead Trailhead
Join volunteer naturalists for an evening exploring Walker Ranch under cover of darkness. We’ll hike about two miles round-trip on an easy trail, enjoying the starlight, listening for night sounds, and learning about some of the nocturnal habits of the critters that live here. Bring water, closed-toe hiking shoes/boots, suitable clothing for the weather, a flashlight, and your night vision. All ages are welcome.
Let’s Talk Chickens
Sunday, July 14; 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Agricultural Heritage Center, 8348 Ute Hwy, west of Longmont
Please join volunteer and chicken enthusiast Barb Kirchner, as she shares personal experiences and lessons learned from raising her own chickens. Learn why chickens have been popular as pets and livestock for centuries and how they are perfectly suited to your backyard today. Kids (and adults) can learn how to walk, talk, and act like a chicken. Bring your kids and your questions to this informal drop-in hen party!
Ground-breaking Ladies
Sunday, July 14; 11:00am to noon
Walker Ranch Homestead; 7701 Flagstaff Road, approximately 7 miles west of Boulder on Flagstaff Road
Join us as we explore the lives of two adventurous women who were a bit before their time. Martha Maxwell had a wildlife museum, some of which she showed off at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. Hazel Schmoll, from a mining family in Ward, was the first woman to earn a doctorate in botany from the University of Chicago. She even had a plant named for her–the Astragalus schmolliae or Schmoll’s Milk-vetch which is found in various Colorado national parks and Indian reservations. All ages are welcome.
Summer Heritage Evening at Walker Ranch
Saturday, July 20; 5:00pm to 7:30pm
Walker Ranch Homestead; 7701 Flagstaff Road, approximately 7 miles west of Boulder on Flagstaff Road
Summer is the height of the growing season for those who make their living raising crops and cattle. Bring your family and a picnic supper, and a blanket to enjoy that on and then visit costumed volunteers as they demonstrate various chores associated with rural living in the late 1800s. Activities demonstrated include doing laundry the old-fashioned way, woodworking, meal preparation, blacksmithing, and children’s games. Visitors are invited to participate in some chores and games. Guided tours of the homestead will be offered each hour. This event is free and open to all ages. For more information, please call 303-776-8848 or send an email to skippen@bouldercounty.org. Please note: Dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the site.
Hike for Seniors
Thursday, July 25; 10:00am to noon
Bald Mountain Scenic Area
The last Thursday of every month, Boulder County Parks and Open Space hosts a nature hike for seniors at a county park. Programs include information about an area’s history, wildlife and current resource management projects, unless specified otherwise. NO REGISTRATION IS NECESSARY. For more information and directions to open space properties, please call 303-678-6214.
Boulder County Sunset Hikes
Boulder County Parks and Open Space offeres weekly sunset hikes. Volunteer naturalists will interpret each park’s history, geology, ecosystems, wildlife, and plants. Bring your family and friends to enjoy an evening exploring your local parks. Hikes start at 6:30 and and end at sunset. Sunset hikes are easy-moderate hiking and suitable for all ages.
- Wednesday, July 3; Heil Valley Ranch Open Space (Lichen Loop Trail; meet at the group picnic shelter)
- Thursday, July 11; Mud Lake Open Space
- Friday, July 19; Bald Mountain Scenic Area
- Monday, July 22; Betasso Preserve
- Tuesday, July 30; Caribou Ranch Open Space
For more information or directions to a park, please visit our website: www.bouldercountyopenspace.org , or contact the Boulder County Parks and Open Space Department at 303-678 6214.
For information about these programs or to arrange a volunteer-led program for your group please contact:
Larry Colbenson
Natural History Program Coordinator
Boulder County Parks and Open Space
5201 St. Vrain Road, Longmont CO 80503
303-678-6214