The view over Boulder from Chautauqua Park. (CU Independent/James Bradbury)
Make the most of syllabus week by taking advantage of outdoor activities before homework and snow pile up.
The remnants of the warm weather gives students a chance to enjoy Boulder’s healthy, active lifestyle.
Hiking the Flatirons is an activity no Boulderite should pass on. These trails, nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, are just a short drive or bike ride away from campus. Access them at the Chautauqua Park Trailhead, located near Baseline and 9th St.
Bring a picnic lunch to the the Flatirons’ many trails for half-hour stroll to an all-day adventure. On nice days, these trails are filled with students and locals hiking with their dogs, friends and family.
If you’re looking for a lazier way to spend the day, tubing down Boulder Creek is a summer-only activity that college students partake in often.
(CU Independent/James Bradbury)
Find a few friends, rent some tubes, grab a cold beer, and work on those tan lines. Just beware of chilly water, and unless you’re a tubing pro, there’s a good chance you’ll hit a rock and end up swimming.
Tubes are available for rent at Whitewater Tube Co.; Big O Tires; the Conoco station at Broadway and Arapahoe Ave; and, McGuckin Hardware. If you’ve tubed Boulder Creek enough, Lyons and Longmont offer other tubing options down St. Vrain Creek.
For some local culture, fresh produce and prepared meals check out the Boulder Farmers’ Market. During the summer, the market is packed with Boulder locals, but just because summer is winding down doesn’t mean the market is — the farmers’ market is open on Wednesdays from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Look for the Saturday markets until the third Saturday in Nov. and the Wednesday markets until the first week of Oct.
Before becoming too overwhelmed with schoolwork, take advantage of life in one the most beautiful cities in the world.
Contact CU Independent staff writer Caryn.maconi@colorado.edu.
