Visitor Information

Be it your first visit or your 100th, OSMP has much to offer! Come explore, enjoy, and care for these majestic lands. Discover your own journey into nature, marvel at the wonders that surround you, and connect to something greater than yourself.

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Know Before You Go

Plan Ahead and Know Your Limits

Bear Peak in the fog

Recreational Activities

View information about specific recreational activities on OSMP:

Rules & Regulations

Parking

Plan Ahead

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.

Trailhead Webcams

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.

Don't Park Illegally

It is unsafe and illegal to park in a way that:

Illegal Parking
  • Blocks emergency access gate or fire lane;
  • Blocks pedestrian gate or driveway;
  • Prevents horse trailer parking; or
  • Along any highway or a roadway where prohibited by sign.

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.

What to Bring

Layers

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.

Footwear

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).

Footwear traction for icy conditions

Pack

Other items to keep in your pack:

  • Headlamp - in case your hike takes longer than expected.
  • Bug spray - OSMP is home to ticks and mosquitoes.
  • Snacks - eating is important to keep your energy levels up
  • Map - paper map or one downloaded to your phone

Bringing a dog?

And don’t forget about your dog! 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.

Flagstaff Amphitheater
Dylan Williams

Flagstaff Amphitheater by Dylan Williams

Woman in OSMP and the Arts Program