Be it your first visit or your 100th, Boulder's trails and open spaces have much to offer!
Get prepared here.
View information about specific recreational activities on OSMP:
Have an alternate plan in case the parking lot is full. Parks and trails are generally less crowded on weekdays. Trailhead parking lots are often full early in the morning on weekends. Review the Visitation Data Explorer to see when trailheads are less busy.
OSMP’s trailhead cameras help you see what's happening at some of your favorite trailheads—so you can better plan your visit and enjoy Boulder’s remarkable open space.
It is unsafe and illegal to park in a way that:
All vehicles parked in a manner described above are subject to being ticketed/towed.
Never park in the roadway. The roadway is defined as the space between the white (fog) line and the yellow (center) line (see photo). If ANY part of your vehicle (tire, mirror) is between the white and yellow lines, your vehicle is a hazard and can be ticketed/towed immediately.
It’s often legal to park in residential neighborhoods but please be considerate and don’t block driveways or encroach on private property.
Dress in layers and be prepared with rain gear, lots of water and sun protection. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are important to protect your skin and eyes at high altitude.
Appropriate footwear: stay on trail and walk through mud to prevent habitat damage and trail widening.
During fall, winter and spring, you may encounter icy sections of trail; metal traction devices for your shoes/boots are recommended (see below).
Other items to keep in your pack:
Dogs can suffer from heat exhaustion, pad injuries and dehydration, just like humans. If you’re bringing your dog with you, be sure to bring enough water for them to drink and a portable water bowl. Please also pack poop bags to pick up after your dog and then pack it out with you.
Learn about Boulder's wildlife, history, landscapes and more through guided outings with staff and volunteers. Programs are free and open to all.
Give back to nature while enjoying it. Projects range from one day/one-time opportunities to ongoing projects.
Contact us to schedule educational programs, recreational excursions, accessible bike rides, contemplative experiences and more. Programs are free and open to all.
Choose from a menu of fun, interactive, standards-based nature and local history programs for grades PK-12 or create your own.
