Entertainment is rarely completely free these days, as the performers on Pearl Street frequently remind passerby during their shows. Hanging out in your locals parks is of course free, but unless you’ve taken the initiative to bring a bunch of books to study and are yourself already a skilled observer, you might not learn anything new. Fortunately many park departments in the area are happy to provide you with experts and educators to lead you through the outdoors.

Sawhill Ponds, Boulder on an early morning bird walk

There are free nature programs for everyone, and most parks departments host programs throughout the year to suit different interests and people. Here are some of the Parks Departments’ websites in the area.

• City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks- Nature Hikes and Programs
• Boulder County Parks and Open Space- Hikes and Events
• Jefferson County Open Space- Open Space Events (There’s even yoga!)
• City of Longmont Parks, Open Space, and Trails- Calendar

This past weekend I attended a Bird watching hike at Sawhill Ponds hosted by the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. The walk was great, Dave pointed out several different species and allowed the group to use his spotting scope to peer at the birds all while hiking around the park and spouting interesting facts about different animals and the Boulder ecosystems. The exercise, the beautiful day, and of course the gorgeous Boulder landscape made the hike great.

Sawhill Ponds, Boulder

Lizzie Etzel

Lizzie works as a seasonal for City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, spending her days among the flora and fauna of Boulder both on and off the job. When it comes to knowing what to do and whats going on in the numerous open spaces around Boulder, Lizzie is your girl. After graduating from the University of Texas with a Geography: Environmental Resource Management degree, she came to Salida, CO to work in the San Juan National Forest and surrounding areas on a trail crew. Previously she has worked for Boulder County Parks and Open Space, other trail crews, and as an environmental educator. She has a passion for spreading environmental knowledge and bringing nature straight to the people.