Boulder’s Phone-Free February Challenge: Ditch Your Phone, Embrace Real Life

Pear Street Mall
If you’ve ever walked down Pearl Street and noticed nearly everyone glued to their phones, you’re not alone. Our smartphones have become an extension of ourselves, often taking priority over the world around us. But what if Boulder took on a challenge to change that—at least for a month?
Enter Phone-Free February, a movement encouraging people to be more mindful about their screen time and reconnect with their surroundings. For a city as vibrant and active as Boulder, this challenge is a perfect fit. With miles of hiking trails, world-class climbing, and a community that values wellness, why not take a break from scrolling and truly experience what Boulder has to offer?
What is Phone-Free February?
Phone-Free February is a campaign launched by the Global Solidarity Foundation to promote healthier smartphone use. It doesn’t mean ditching your phone completely—unless you want to—but rather encourages being more intentional with your usage. Participants can choose between two levels:
- PhoneFlex: Use your phone less, set screen-time limits, and be mindful of your usage.
- Phone-Free: Go all in—put your phone away for the month. This is the extreme version, and while it might sound daunting, it could be a game-changer.
No matter which level you choose, the goal is simple: spend less time on your phone and more time engaging with the world around you.
Why Boulder is the Perfect Place for Phone-Free February
Boulder is an ideal place to take on this challenge. Whether you’re an athlete, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who simply loves the local food and coffee scene, there’s no shortage of ways to stay engaged without a screen.
- Reconnect with Nature: Instead of doom-scrolling, take a sunrise hike up Mount Sanitas or stroll around Wonderland Lake without your phone buzzing in your pocket.

Mount Sanitas
- Be Present in Conversations: Grab coffee at Ruzo Coffee or a beer at a local brewery without constantly checking your notifications.
- Engage with the Community: Boulder is known for its strong sense of community—whether it’s farmers’ markets, yoga classes, or live music. Being phone-free lets you fully enjoy these experiences.
The Science Behind It: Why Going Phone-Free is a Win for Your Health
Studies have shown that excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health, relationships, and even physical health. Here are a few benefits of cutting back:
- Improved Mental Health: Less time on social media means fewer opportunities for comparison and self-doubt.
- Better Sleep: Scrolling before bed can mess with your sleep cycle. Cutting back can lead to more restful nights.
- Stronger Relationships: Without distractions, you can be fully present with friends, family, and partners.
- Increased Creativity: Less screen time allows more space for creativity, mindfulness, and new ideas.
Join Boulder’s Phone-Free February Challenge
Boulder is already ahead of the curve when it comes to health, mindfulness, and community engagement. Why not take it a step further? If you’re up for the challenge, consider joining Phone-Free February and see how it changes your perspective.
Can you imagine a Boulder where people at Chautauqua Park are watching the sunset, not through their phone screens, but with their own eyes? A city where we truly engage with each other at coffee shops, instead of staring down at our devices?
The challenge starts February 1. Are you in?