Best Outdoor Activities Near Boulder

Colorado is home to the Rocky Mountains, breathtaking landscapes, an active outdoor lifestyle, abundant wildlife, and charming communities. Whether you're touring one of the 42 state parks, four national parks, or stunning scenic byways, the Centennial State provides fantastic opportunities to connect with nature throughout the year.

Students at the University of Colorado at Boulder have many easy ways to get fresh mountain air after a long week of studying. There's something exciting to do, see, or discover every month of the year, making this one of the nation's best outdoor recreation states.

Hiking and Biking 

Discover the Boulder area's stunning mountain vistas with 300 miles of intriguing hiking and biking trails and around 45,000 acres of pristine outdoors. Many places have free or cheap parking and admission costs, and the routes are well-marked so visitors can easily find their way. Some local favorites include Red Rocks Trail, Wonderland Lake, Mount Sanitas, and Chautauqua Trail; however, be aware that it becomes crowded as the day progresses. If you still need to get the necessary gear, don't worry about missing out since there are plenty of equipment rental stores in the area. 

Leaf Peeping

There are many ways to welcome autumn in Boulder, and the best time to enjoy the vibrant foliage is from late September to the second week of October. Colorful landscapes may be seen around the Wonderland Lake loop route or along the Mesa Trail walking path. Other great locations to see the breathtaking changing leaves include Gregory Canyon, on the foothills border, Mapleton Avenue, Chautauqua Park, and Central Park. 

Jeep Tours

There is nothing like experiencing Colorado's wild terrain on a 4x4 or Jeep expedition. On the state's back roads and through mountain streams, Jeep rides, and four-wheeling companies can safely take you through abandoned towns and old mine camps, past the state's beautiful waterfalls and peaks, and along scenic backroads. Some trips may have a theme of visiting sights like fall foliage, views of mountains, wildflowers in bloom, or even historical places. Many companies even provide customized trips, including stops in the breathtaking Estes Park and Rocky Mountains.

Fishing

The Boulder area's ponds, lakes, and rivers are great spots for anglers to unwind while trying for that big catch. Fly fishing is also quite popular, and there are spots for novices and experts. Trout, bass, walleye, perch, bluegill, and catfish are just a few of the fish species in the region. 

Some of the most well-liked locations to cast a line include Lagerman Reservoir, Wonderland Lake, Walden Ponds, and Viele Lake. Visit a local sporting goods store to learn which fishing licenses are necessary.

Snow Sports

As the snow falls and thousands of residents and tourists hit the slopes, Colorado becomes a winter wonderland. The nearest ski resort to Boulder is Eldora, just 21 miles away (35 minutes by car). It has eight terrain parks and ten lifts spread over 680 acres. Freestyle, cross-country, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are all allowed in Eldora. For sledding, Scott Carpenter Park, Chautauqua Park, and Tantra Park are great places to go, and Copper Mountain, which offers snow tubing, is about an hour away. 

Colorado makes it easy to enjoy nature and have fun. Enjoy year-round gorgeous vistas and an excellent workout while you're there.