Open Space and Mountain Parks

Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) are a very special place. The open space lands teem with native plants and wildlife and are home to threatened and endangered species. They serve as a buffer between Boulder and nearby development. They sustain agriculture uses and add untold benefits to the natural environment - clean air, water, and earth.

The lands shape the urban mosaic of the Boulder Valley and provide residents with passive recreation opportunities. Trails are used by walkers, hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders, dog walkers and other passive recreational uses.

OSMP Alerts

Trail/Trailhead Closures

Please see the temporary closures page for more details on the trail closures below. OSMP's interactive trail map also shows these longer-term trail closures and restrictions:

Muddy trail closures: Please check the trail map or temporary closures page for any muddy trail closures.
Boulder Falls closure: Boulder Falls will be closed beginning 10/21 because of road construction in the area.
IBM Connector Trail closure: The trail will be closed west of 63rd St. beginning 9/11.

Project Updates & Other Alerts

Prairie Dog public process: The City of Boulder has begun an expedited review of how it manages irrigated agricultural fields and prairie dogs later and is seeking input on ways it can foster healthy soils and promote sustainable agricultural land uses. Learn more.

Tall Oatgrass Management Program: Grazing and its associated livestock fencing are an important part of a continuing OSMP restoration project to help contain tall oatgrass – a highly invasive, non-native grass – in the area.

Purchase OSMP annual parking permits online: Visitors whose vehicles are registered outside of Boulder County can now purchase OSMP annual parking permits online. Learn more about parking permits.

Open Space and Mountain Parks Calendar

Free, public Nature Hikes and Programs can be found at NatureHikes.org.

Expedited Review of Prairie Dogs in Irrigated Lands

Monday, January 27, 2020 @ 5 to 7 p.m.

OSMP is seeking public feedback on a draft approach and evaluation of potential actions to manage prairie dogs on irrigable agricultural land. Share your input.

Expedited Review of Prairie Dogs in Irrigated Lands

Tuesday, February 4, 2020 @ 2 to 4 p.m.

OSMP is seeking public feedback on a draft approach and evaluation of potential actions to manage prairie dogs on irrigable agricultural land. Share your input.