This summer will be my first in Colorado because I tend to go back home to California after school gets out. Though I am excited to stay here over the summer, I’ve been picking my head for activities in order to keep myself occupied and active. I hope this list of outdoor activities inspires more people to go out and explore their local areas this summer and to try something new!
1. Find hikes in your local area
One of the most popular hiking spots in Boulder is Chautauqua, which is based around the famous Flatirons. Though I have not personally been, it has been on my bucket list since coming to Boulder. The website linked below entails the different hikes and trails that are within Chautauqua. Estes Park is also a well-known spot to hike and take in the gorgeous scenery. As it tends to get upwards of 100 degrees fahrenheit in Boulder over the summer, I recommend lots of sunscreen, a hat, and an infinite supply of water if you are planning on partaking in this excursion. Stay hydrated and enjoy the beautiful views of Boulder!
https://www.bouldercoloradousa.com/outdoors/hiking/chautauqua-hikes
2. Visit a National Park
Connected to the idea above, I think it’s important to take time to be outdoors and “one with nature” this summer! There are a total of 6 main and well-known national parks within Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park, Green Sand Dunes National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Arches National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and Canyonlands National Park. With all of these amazing preserved outdoor spaces, there is plenty of time to explore and get lots of fresh summer air.
3. Find ways to contribute to your community
There are tons of volunteer programs and expeditions around Boulder over the summer to get you better acquainted with your community and your environment. It also doesn’t hurt to add to your resume and can be a productive and informational way to pass the time throughout summer.
4. Try Colorado-famous activities
Summer in Colorado is a wonderful time not only for outdoor fans but also for adventure fans. Colorado is known for white-water rafting along rivers such as the Colorado River, Arkansas River, or the Yampa River. Mountain climbing is also a popular activity, yet if scaling the Flatirons is a little too advanced, there are always indoor climbing gyms sprinkled around local areas. Mountain biking is also quite infamous in Colorado as there are many local trails with scenic views and great look out spots.
https://www.bouldercoloradousa.com/outdoors/biking/mountain-biking-trails
5. Go on a road trip around Colorado
If there’s limited activities to partake in this summer, a road trip around Colorado could bring endless possibilities of fun. Whether it’s taking I-25 straight through Colorado or small back roads with many pit-stops, road trips with friends or family are a great way to pass time. A road trip to neighboring states such as Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, or Kansas could also be an engaging adventure. With the Pink Lake in Utah, the National Parks in Wyoming, or the beautiful mesas of New Mexico, there’s never a dull moment.
6. Take part in the Colorado State Fair
Though the Colorado State Fair takes place towards the end of the summer, it seems like the perfect activity to partake in before school starts back up again. This fair annually takes place in Pueblo, CO this year and starts August 25 and continues on until September 4. If Pueblo is a little too far of a trek from Boulder, there is the Boulder County Fair in Longmont that begins a bit earlier on August 10. Full of yummy treats and fun games and rides, a fair seems like the perfect way to end your summer.
7. Go to a Red Rocks concert
Though I have only been to one Red Rocks concert that took place in the middle of winter, I can’t imagine how breathtaking it would be to go during the summer. This amphitheater is nestled into famous red rock (hence the name) and is located in Morrison, CO. There are plenty of performers lined up for summer 2023, many who are performing more than once. I highly recommend putting this on your summer bucket list as it is a once in a lifetime experience.
https://www.redrocksonline.com/events/
Most of these summer activities are either free or relatively affordable, providing great opportunities to be outside in the sunshine. So whether it’s going on a walk or a hike around Boulder or going to a festival or concert, there are many different ways to spend time outdoors this summer.