10 Things to do in Boulder, CO for First Time Visitors
When you visit a place like Boulder, Colorado, you might be thinking that there isn’t really that much to do. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. There are dozens of outdoor activities that you can participate in and they are set in some of the most beautiful areas you’re ever likely to see. There’s also plenty to do indoors if your not really the outdoor type. Keep reading to find out 10 of the most popular activities in the area, listed below.
1. The Flatirons
If you love to go hiking, this is one of the first places you’ll probably want to stop. It’s a beautiful natural area that allows you to go hiking and rock-climbing until your heart’s content. For anyone that truly loves the outdoors or that likes a bit of a challenge, this is an activity that can quickly become one of your favorites.
2. Eldorado Canyon State Park
Here’s another great place to go if you love outdoor activities. You can go rock climbing, hiking, or merely sit and relax in one of the most beautiful places you’re ever likely to see. If you love outdoor experiences, Eldorado Canyon State Park might become a place that you have to visit at least once a year because once you get there, it’s not likely that you’ll ever be able to get it out of your mind again.
3. U.S. Route 36 in Colorado
This is one of the premiere routes for cyclists in the area. If you’re an avid cyclist or you just want to have an enjoyable afternoon, this is a great way to do it while simultaneously seeing the sights and getting in some physical activity.
4. Flagstaff Mountain
If you really want a great view of the entire area, consider going to the top of Flagstaff Mountain, which is almost 7,000 feet high. You don’t have to hike or cycle up the mountain, although you certainly could if you wanted to. There’s a perfectly good road that allows you to drive all the way to the top and then you can really sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. It really is a great way to get an entirely new perspective on life.
5. NCAR Mesa Laboratory
This is a unique building made out of pink sandstone that serves as both a museum and a state-of-the-art weather laboratory. Here, you can see all kinds of interesting weather experiments alongside pieces that were used to forecast the weather years ago. It doesn’t matter if you’re interested in science or history, this is a place that you will love to visit.
6. South Boulder Creek
Whether you like fishing or just being out in nature, this is a place that will make you feel like you’re almost in Heaven on Earth. You can even participate in fly-fishing from here, something that a lot of people quickly find is their new favorite hobby. Even if you don’t enjoy fishing in any capacity, you’re bound to love the cool, clear waters of South Boulder Creek.
7. Bear Peak
If you think Flagstaff Mountain is high, you might want to try hiking up this one. At just under 8,500 feet, you’re definitely in for a challenging hike. You can choose between a rocky climb or a walk through the meadow in order to get there, so it’s great for people of all skill levels. The real reward is getting to the top and being able to enjoy the fruits of your efforts.
8. Gross Reservoir
This Reservoir might have a funny-sounding name, but it doesn’t change the fact that it’s one of the best places in the area for fishing and camping. It’s a great recreational area that allows you to get in touch with nature and with yourself.
9. University of Colorado Museum of Natural History
If you like interactive exhibits or you’re interested in dinosaurs, this is one of the best places in the whole state for you to stop. Any history buff will find this an interesting endeavor, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon with the family when you’re too tired to do anymore outdoor activities.
10. Betasso Preserve Trailhead
This is a near perfect place to be if you like to do things like hiking or cycling, but it’s also one of the premiere trailheads for horseback riding. If that’s an activity you love, then this is probably going to be one of your favorite visits throughout the entire trip.
