Today’s Outdoor Picture of the Day takes us to the heart of the University of Colorado campus in Boulder, where one of the school’s most storied landmarks—the Hale Science Building—stands proudly against a stunning summer backdrop.

Built in 1892 and named for Horace Hale, CU’s second president, the building is one of the oldest structures still in use on campus. Hale played a crucial role in shaping the early years of the university, guiding it through both financial struggles and periods of expansion. His legacy endures not only in the name of the building but also in the traditions tied to it. For generations, CU students have passed by Hale on their way to class, finding inspiration in its red sandstone walls, Gothic-style arches, and the feeling of continuity it brings to a campus that has grown and evolved around it.

Hale has long been a touchstone of CU traditions. Alumni recall walking past it on their way to their first lectures, attending early science labs in its historic classrooms, or simply pausing on the lawn to meet friends between classes. Its presence anchors the university in a sense of history, reminding students that while much changes with each new class of Buffs, some things remain steady.

Today’s photo captures Hale in all its glory beneath a bright blue summer sky. Beyond its stately façade, the Flatirons rise in the distance, iconic and timeless, as if standing guard over the campus. To the far left, Green Mountain and Bear Peak add to the sweeping view, creating a scene that perfectly captures Boulder’s unique blend of academia and nature. It’s this seamless union of scholarship and outdoor beauty that makes CU Boulder one of the most admired campuses in the nation.

On a day like today, with sunlight warming the sandstone walls of Hale and the mountains etched sharply against the horizon, it’s easy to see why students, faculty, and visitors alike feel such a strong sense of connection here. The photo is not just a snapshot of a building—it’s a reminder of history, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Boulder itself.

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