Nature Hikes and Programs

Natural Selections is our ongoing series of educational programs on topics including ecology, wildlife, local history, night hikes, children’s programs, plus many more. All programs are free and open to the public. Please do not bring dogs.

Do you want Natural Selections sent to you by email? Join our mailing list! Follow this link to subscribe. In the drop-down menu, scroll down to Open Space and choose Natural Selections You will receive a weekly notice about upcoming programs. We will not share your email address.

 Teachers, scout troops and community groups can obtain free individual programs from Open Space and Mountain Parks naturalists. Follow this link to learn more.

Great resources and ideas for families to Connect Kids to Nature - visit the web page or  download the brochure .

Download the June 2013 Natural Selections schedules (PDF format)

June

Meadow Music summer 2013 performances:
Mondays, 5:30 – 6:45 pm
June  17, 24
July 1, 8, 22
Aug 5, 12
Meadow Music programs are our most popular (and very fun) education and outreach events. Children and parents join OSMP’s Jeff Kagan, Paige Doughty, Mark Wesson and other guest artists for evenings of children’s music and nature education. The evening consists of a short, kid-friendly hike on the McClintock Trail followed by 45 minutes of nature music for kids on the Chautauqua Green. Best for kids ages 2-8. Meadow Music is free! Bring a picnic, bring a blanket, rain or shine.

Rhythms of Life- Share Your Musical Spirit
Tue. June 18, 7 - 8:30 pm
Join us for an interactive drum and rhythm circle to connect with nature, music, and friends on OSMP.  We will develop the circle and experience it as a metaphor for the Circle of Life.  Many drums and instruments will be provided.  We also invite you to bring your own, including flutes, didgeridoos, and more.  Please also bring chairs to help us create a sound circle.  Jon Crowder of Peak Rhythms will lead and facilitate the program.  No experience necessary. Space is limited; please use this link to register online: http://drums2013.eventbrite.com Location information will be given at registration.

Visit to the Flagstaff Fire
Sat. June 22, 9 am – 4 pm
The Flagstaff Fire started on June 26- almost one year ago - on the west side of Bear Peak. The fire scorched approximately 300 acres and was put out following several days of intensive fire fighting. After extensive repairs, some trails are now open, providing an unparalleled opportunity to visit the burn area and learn about the fire. Join OSMP naturalist Dave Sutherland for a strenuous all-day hike through the burned forest to the summit of Bear Peak. Approximately 7.5 miles, 2600’ elevation gain.  Space is limited to 15 and reservations are required – follow this link to sign up online: http://flagstaff-fire6-22.eventbrite.com

Nature for Kids & Parents: Wildlife Water Safari
Sat. June 29  9:30-11:30 am
We will be going on a safari to look for wild animals and places they might get water.  We'll provide the Wildlife Water Safari Field Notebook for drawing clues.  Pack your safari gear and we will discover water sources for local wildlife and create a field notebook on our adventure!  Meet Debora Martin, Early Childhood Educator/Volunteer Naturalist at the Lehigh Street entrance to Shanahan Ridge (do a map search for 1903 Lehigh Street in Boulder, where Lehigh and Lafayette Streets intersect) for an easy hike.  Parking is available along the street. Ages 6 and up.

 Coming up . . .

Art  Inspired by the Land – Art Show Opening Reception
Fri. July 26, 5 –7 pm
Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks Department is excited to announce that we will host an art show in late summer at the Boulder Public Library Canyon Gallery (1001 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder).  This show will celebrate art created by the community and inspired by OSMP lands.  Please join us for appetizers, quartet music from the Boulder Philharmonic, and beautifully inspiring community art celebrating your protected lands and wildlife.  This reception is free and open to the public. The art show will run from July 20 – August 29 during normal library hours.

Sawhill PondsBoulder Valley Ranch - Sage TrailheadChautauqua Ranger CottageFlagstaff SummitSouth Boulder Creek WestBobolinkDoudy DrawFoothills TrailheadGregory CanyonMarshall MesaRealization PointNCAR Wonderland LakeartsLehigh Street entrance to Shanahan Ridge Lefthand Trailhead South Mesa Trailhead

Last Updated on Monday, 17 June 2013 09:19