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P.O. Box 791
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303-441-3440

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Welcome to the City of Boulder
Habitat Conservation Area
Off-Trail Permit Program


What is the Off-Trail Permit Program?

The Off-Trail Permit Program allows visitors to obtain a free permit to travel off of designated trails in Habitat Conservation Areas (HCAs). This program was adopted as part of the 2005 Visitor Master Plan to protect high quality habitat areas where trail density is low.

The Off-Trail Permit Program began in 2007 with the Western Mountain Parks, Lower Boulder Creek and Southern Grasslands HCAs. On Jan. 29, 2009, the Eldorado Mountain HCA was added to the off-trail permit program. As Open Space and Mountain Parks continues to implement HCA regulations, additional HCAs will require off-trail permits for off-trail travel. The Off-Trail Permit Program will be phased-in by HCA as other parallel processes are completed such as: Trail Study Area (TSA) completion, trail construction or designation and other agreements.

Do I need an off-trail permit?

You need to have an off-trail permit with you if you hike off of a designated trail in an HCA.  pdf HCA Map 422.71 Kb You can travel on designated trails in HCAs without a permit.

You may also access some climbs without an off-trail permit. Click here for maps and a list of climbs that require a permit.

Closures may affect when off-trail permits for specific areas will be available. You are not allowed to bring dogs off-trail with an off-trail permit. Bicycling is only allowed on certain designated trails. Click here for closures.

Off-trail online application information

This registration application works best with Internet Explorer 6.0+ and Firefox 1.5+. To print your permit you will need Adobe Reader.

Registering for an off-trail permit is quick and easy!

  1. Read and agree to the rules and travel guidelines.
  2. Review the HCA map and select the HCA you would like to visit.
  3. Select the sub-area you would like to visit and submit your activity and trip detail information.
  4. Verify your trip details.
  5. Enter additional registration information.
  6. Print your permit and carry it with you on the day of your off-trail activity.

GET STARTED:  continue

Quick Links and Helpful Information

For more information on the Off-Trail Permit Program, alternative methods of applying, and for technical help using this web page, please call (303) 441-3440.


Last Updated on Tuesday, 20 October 2009 13:45

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