Want to reach 6,500+ Boulder locals who love supporting local?

From trails and coffee shops to events and small businesses, our readers are deeply plugged into Boulder life.

🥾 Hiking Beneath the Icons

The Flatirons are part of more than 46,000 acres of protected Open Space & Mountain Parks — which means miles of trails with up-close views of these rocky giants.

Most hikes begin at Chautauqua Park, right off Baseline Road. It’s popular (read: parking fills fast), so give yourself extra time — or consider the Park-to-Park shuttle in summer.

Easy-to-moderate favorites:

• Flatiron Loop Trail (2 miles): A scenic forested loop with classic views.

• Woods Quarry: A short hike with a peek into a historic sandstone quarry and stone benches with incredible overlooks.
  
  

Trail etiquette reminder: yield to hikers going uphill. It takes more energy — and we’re nothing if not polite about our elevation gain.

Pro tip: Winter is actually one of the best times to hike here. Fewer crowds, crisp air, and all you really need are solid boots (maybe Yaktrax for traction).

🧗 Rock Climbing (For the Bold)

Want to get even closer? Climb them.

The First and Third Flatirons are legendary multi-pitch climbing destinations, drawing experienced climbers from around the country. Routes range from 4 to 10 pitches, offering long, varied ascents and unbeatable views.

A few things to know:

• The approach to the First Flatiron is no joke — but the reward is worth it.

• The Third Flatiron is typically closed from early February to late July to protect nesting raptors.

• Over the years, climbers have tackled these routes in roller skates, under a full moon, and… without clothes. (We’ll let you decide how Boulder that is.)

If you’re new to climbing, go with a guide. The Flatirons are iconic — but they’re not beginner playgrounds.

🧺 Picnicking at Chautauqua

Not feeling like breaking a sweat? You can still soak in the view.

Grab snacks from the Boulder Farmers Market (Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings) or swing by the General Store at Chautauqua. Then claim a patch of lawn and enjoy one of the best backdrops in Colorado.

After lunch:

• Hit the playground

• Rally on the tennis courts

• Or catch a show at the historic Chautauqua Auditorium
  

Flatirons + sunshine + people watching = peak Boulder.

Wednesday, February 25

Thursday, February 26

Full-time

Contract

Boulder dates blend nature and culture effortlessly. Stroll Pearl Street Mall for coffee and people-watching, wander the Boulder Creek Path, or catch golden hour beneath the Flatirons at Chautauqua Park. For something laid-back, North Boulder’s breweries and eateries keep things casual and cozy.

👉 Vote and we’ll share the top picks—chosen by locals—in an upcoming issue. 💌