Boulder is famous for the majestic sandstone flatirons jutting from the mountainside above the town. Most people probably know that you can hike these soaring monoliths. The first and second flatiron trail is one of the most popular in Boulder County, climbing 2.7 miles through rocky debris and pine forests to sit among the boulders for which the city is named. Our Ratings: Crowd: 2/5. This is a very busy trail. On fair days and weekends you’ll be following a steady stream of other hikers up and down the mountain. Even at sunrise and during the winter the trail is well populated. If you’re... Read More

Not sure which trails are worth the trek? Never fear—we’ve compiled five of the best bike trails in the area to get you started. 1. Sunset Trail East, Erie CO For those looking for a gentle start, this 1-mile beginner loop in Erie has high ratings, views of the plains, and nice easy switchbacks for a pleasant afternoon ride. This singletrack trail offers connections to Sunset West, County Road 5, and other trails and roads for those who want to keep on going. 2. Wapiti Trail, Boulder CO For an intermediate pedal through the pines, check out this 5-mile out-and-back loop in the Heil Valley Ranch... Read More

If you’re still looking for a Christmas gift to get your friends with dogs, it may be wise to give them a leash. That, or maybe some classes. Effective on January 1st, Boulder will be introducing new requirements for the Voice and Sight Control program. What are the new requirements? Well, here’s the rundown: What it is: Dog owners who wish to walk their dogs without a leash must attend an education class about Boulder’s new expectations. In return, dog owners will receive a special blue tag for their furry companion, which will allow dogs to be legally off-leash. What to... Read More

Located just past the summit of Flagstaff Mountain, a short scenic drive from downtown Boulder, this large Boulder County Open Space park sports over 10 miles of trails as well as fantastic natural and cultural history. Check out Walker Ranch on BoulderCounty.org The Walker Ranch Loop is a 7.8 mile loop that meets South Boulder Creek multiple times and takes you through diverse terrain of a foothills ecosystem.  From singletrack sections through thick pine trees to sprawling meadows complete with views from all directions, this trail will take you on quite a journey. The best part about this... Read More

Boulder has a reputation for being a very healthy, active, and outdoorsy place. I was recently on Tinder and just about every girl on there had some sort of picture of themselves hiking, snowboarding, or finishing the Bolder Boulder on their profile. Their favorite places to shop include the bike shop, Whole Foods, and REI. It makes sense when you think about it, just look at the flatirons. I like to call it the health trap. Stay in Boulder long enough and eventually you will pick up an outdoorsy hobby. This hobby will introduce you to people who are healthy eaters. These health nuts will consciously... Read More

After facing the devastating floods that began on September 11, the result of an eight-day period in which The National Weather Service reported between 7 and 18 inches of rain, Boulder County has maintained its resolve and continues to rebuild. After the natural disaster, which destroyed approximately 2,000 homes, cut off entire towns, and washed away countless roads, hundreds of people were reported to be missing or unaccounted for. That number diminished quickly, however, as people checked in to authorities and on Tuesday, it was reported that the final six missing people were found to be safe. Of... Read More