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Here are the activities that Boulder County Parks & Open Space has going on in July. You can also see them on our Hikes & Events Calendar.
Left Hand Outdoor Challenge
Know a teen who loves the outdoors? The Left Hand Outdoor Challenge youth program is now accepting applications. This free nine-month program offers teens ages 14-18 various challenging experiences to foster outdoor adventure, education, stewardship, career exploration, and leadership. The application deadline is Wednesday, Aug. 13, or until filled. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable outdoor skills and to meet new friends!
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Fun On the Farm: Goat-tastic!
Friday, July 11, 9:45-10:30 a.m.
Agricultural Heritage Center
Children ages 3-6 will love to visit the farm to learn about animals, plants, and agricultural life. Our goats are goat-tastic! Come learn about goats on the farm and meet our goats, Pinky and Porky. All programs include a short story time, hands-on activities, and a take-home craft. Afterwards, explore the farm. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration not required, but you may sign up to receive updates in case of inclement weather or cancellation.
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Mark your calendar for other upcoming Fun on the Farm events: Fridays, July 25, Aug. 8, Aug. 22.
Hammering on the Farm
Friday, July 11, 10 a.m.-noon
Agricultural Heritage Center
All ages welcome
Drop by anytime from 10 a.m. to noon to watch the blacksmith work his craft. Listen to the clang-clang-clang of the hammer and the hum of the coal forge blower. Learn about blacksmithing tools such as hammers, tongs, anvils, swage blocks, and more.
Registration not required, but you may sign up to receive updates in case of inclement weather or cancellation.
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Mark your calendar for other upcoming Hammering on the Farm events: Fridays, July 25, Aug. 8, Aug. 29.
The Birds and the Bees and Beyond: The Inside Story of Pollination
Saturday, July 12, 9-11 a.m.
Louisville Recreation & Senior Center
Pollinators play essential roles in our food supply and the health of ecosystems. While many of us think of honeybees as the primary pollinators, much of the work is done by other surprising sources — including beetles, butterflies, moths, wind, and water. Discover the many pollination strategies of plants during this family-friendly slideshow and outdoor walk. We’ll explore how plants and animals work together to create a bountiful world — and what we can do to help them thrive.
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Altona Schoolhouse Open House
Sunday, July 13,11 a.m-2 p.m.
Altona Schoolhouse at Heil Valley Ranch
All ages welcome
Drop by anytime during the open house to go inside the historic schoolhouse where students studied and played from 1880 to the World War II era. Volunteers will be on hand to share the school’s history and restoration with visitors. If time allows, you can take part in a game or spelling bee.
Registration not required.
Mark your calendar for another upcoming Altona Schoolhouse Open House: Sunday, Aug. 10.
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Poets in Nature at Sunset
Saturday, July 19, 7-9 p.m.
Bald Mountain Scenic Area
Join our community in celebrating self-expression and moments of deep connection through poetry and nature. Participants will explore a local outdoor space — Bald Mountain — engage their senses, and use observation, mindfulness, and guided prompts to create original poetry. This program is designed to foster creativity and community, environmental awareness, and self-expression for all ages and skill levels.
Registration required.
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Summer Heritage Morning
Sunday, July 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Walker Ranch Homestead
All ages welcome
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the past with this immersive historical event that will transport you back in time. Talk with costumed volunteers as they demonstrate late 1800’s ranch tasks. You will also be invited to do some chores and play historical games. Free and fun for all ages. If you like, bring a picnic and a blanket.
Registration not required, but you may sign up to receive updates in case of inclement weather or cancellation.
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Mark your calendar for other upcoming Walker Ranch Homestead historical events: Vintage Baseball Game & Autumn Heritage Day, Sunday, Oct. 5, noon-3 p.m., and Winter Heritage Day, Sunday, Jan. 25, 1-3 p.m..
Beautiful Butterflies of Boulder County
Thursday, July 24, 6:30-8 p.m.
Ron Stewart Parks & Open Space Building
Are you curious about butterflies, or have you ever wondered where monarchs go during their incredible migration? Join volunteer naturalists for a beginner’s guide to our colorful local butterflies. This slideshow program will explore the amazing life cycle of butterflies and cover basic information on behavior, host plants, identification tips, and more.
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Catfish Nights at Stearns Lake
Friday, July 25, 7:30-10 p.m.
Stearns Lake at Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm
All ages welcome
Summer Catfish Night is an opportunity for anglers to fish at night when Stearns Lake is usually closed. Bring your family and friends and enjoy a summer night fishing at the lake!
- Anglers must have current Colorado fishing license (kids under 16 years don’t need a license)
- Open to shore fishing only
- Artificial and live bait permitted
- No check-in required
Note: Access the trailhead from Dillon Road on South 104th Street. You cannot get to the trailhead from 287 through Rock Creek Farm.
Registration not required.
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Astronomy: Aurora Borealis
Friday, July 25, 8-10:30 p.m.
Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain
Join volunteer naturalists and astronomers from the Longmont Astronomical Society for a summer night astronomy program. Together, we'll learn about the night skies and view the celestial bodies residing in our galaxy and beyond.
What are the auroras? We don’t often see the auroras in Colorado, but this may be a good year for them to show their colors. Join us to learn about what they are and how to have a chance to catch the show.
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Gold Panning
Saturday, July 27, noon-2 p.m.
Nederland Mining Museum
Ages 5 & Older
Try your hand at gold panning! This activity led to the European settlement of Boulder County as people sought their fortunes. Do you have what it takes to travel back in time and search for gold?
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Registration is handled through Discover Boulder County, Parks & Open Space’s volunteer and event registration system. If you’re new to the system, you’ll need to create an account. But it’s easy and we only use your contact information to communicate about volunteer opportunities and events you register for. We will never sell or give your information to a third party.
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