"The Flatirons are the iconic rock formations that come into view when approaching Boulder, and they’re a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers. While there are numerous treks throughout the area, the Flatirons Vista Loop Trail is a good one to take for picture-postcard photos. It winds through ponderosa pines and wide open spaces which skirt the famous Flatirons just south of the city. It’s an easy 3.3-mile trek that can be accessed just south of Highway 128 along Highway 93, and you’ll also have the chance to spot wildlife like mule deer, black bear, bobcat and coyote. In the winter both golden and bald eagles are frequently seen." --tripstodiscover.com
The Flatirons Vista is a City of Boulder Park. Parking is available at the lot off CO-93, just south of CO-128 for a small fee.
For more info, visit bouldercolorado.gov
TRAIL MAP - PDF
PETS
Dogs are allowed on certain trails, leashed or under voice and sight control.
WEATHER
Located on the CU Boulder campus, the Fiske Planetarium offers guests the opportunity to experience the wonders of the Universe. Offering daily tours, lectures, a fully-immersive theater (similar to IMAX, but better), and laser shows the Fiske is a great indoor destination in Boulder regardless of your current knowledge of astrophysics.
Main Exhibit open Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM
Special Presentations are held on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Visit their presentation schedule for more info.
Parking differs based on time of day. Visit their parking page for more info.
On weekdays, park in metered spots in Lot 306 or along the Kittredge Loop Rd.
On weekends and evenings, parking is free in Lot 308.
A quick visit to view the regular exhibits if Free!
Shows and talks cost $10.
Ever wondered where all the paintings and sculptures of cowboys, bison, and mountain lions are on display? Well maybe not all are here, but the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art houses the largest collection of western art in the United States. The collection, held by Ed Trumble, features paintings, bronze sculptures, and more. Best of all, admission is Free!
From US-36, exit onto Foothills Pkwy north. Continue onto Diagonal Hwy (CO-119) towards Longmont. Turn right onto N 63rd St and follow for 1 mile to Longbow Dr. Turn right onto Longbow. Leanin' Tree is a little under 1/2 mile down on the right.
Parking is available near the large sculpture of a Native American on Horseback.
Not up for a serious hike? Take the drive to the top of Flagstaff Mountain (May-October only). From the top, take in the views to both the East and the West. The summit is also the home to a small nature center.
In the winter, the series of trails may also be accessed from town at the end of Baseline Rd.
The road to the summit is open May thru October. During the remainder of the year it is still possible to access the lookouts along Flagstaff Rd, including Panorama Point and Realization Point.
The map on the right is the base of Flagstaff Rd. Drive to the point shown and keep driving up the mountain.
Parking fees apply.
More info, City of Boulder OSMP.
Looking to take in the sites and sounds of a bustling town? Look no further than Pearl St. One of the nicest open air malls in the US, Pearl Street is the heart of downtown Boulder offering countless shops and restaurants. If you're looking for a slightly more serene or adventurous outing, travel 2 1/2 blocks to the south. Running from Broadway, in the center of town, to the base of the mountains is the Boulder Creek Trail. The trail is a ribbon of green space and parkland, offering an escape from the bustling town around it.
Street parking is available along any of the surrounding streets, including Walnut, Spruce Streets.
Several garages are also located along Boulder Canyon Dr.
The trail runs west from 14th St and just south of Boulder Canyon Dr. From Pearl St, walk south 2 blocks and cross Boulder Canyon Dr. Easy access is from 9th, Broadway, 13th, and 14th.
Looking to relax and warm up with some herbal tea? Look no further than the headquarters and factory of the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory. Started in 1969, Celestial Seasonings has grown into North America's Largest Herbal Tea manufacturer. Stop by for a factory tour and to enjoy some free samples.
Visit Celestial Seasonings' website for more info...
The tour lasts about 45 minutes and includes a brief film and 30 minute factory tour.
Tours are on a first-come basis on the top of the hour and are offered between 10a and 4p Monday-Saturday and 11a-3p on Sunday.
The Tea Shop, Samples, and Gallery are open 1 hour prior to 1 hour following tour times.
The factory is located at 4600 Sleepytime Drive in Northeast Boulder, a few blocks from the Leanin' Tree Museum.
Tours are free, however require a ticket, which are given out on a first-come, first-serve basis. Free samples are also available at the visitor center.