kbcampingtools/02-14-2026

With a friend in town it was time to explore some trails that offered great views, and a variety of trail options to choose from based on time/distance, and weather. Nestled just north of Boulder, the Corral Trailhead at Heil Valley Ranch is a standout gateway into one of the region’s most beloved trail networks for both hikers and mountain bikers. This trailhead delivers a quintessential Colorado hiking experience — a blend of shady ponderosa forests, open grassland meadows, rocky ridge lines, ...

kbcampingtools/11-14-2025

If you live in Colorado, chances are your group chats, social feeds, and late-night drives have had a single theme this week: “the northern lights” or Aurora Borealis. A rare and powerful series of solar storms lit up our skies for three incredible nights, turning the State and the Front Range where I live into an impromptu aurora-watching festival. And for those of us in Boulder, it felt almost surreal—like the sky was auditioning for a cosmic art show. I spent the second night of the storm in ...

kbcampingtools/09-26-2025

Tucked into the quiet residential neighborhoods of northeast Boulder, known as Gunbarrel, Twin Lakes Open Space is a local gem that blends everyday convenience with a true sense of wild Colorado beauty. For those of us lucky enough to live nearby, it’s a go-to spot for a morning dog walk, an after-work run, or simply a slow stroll to reset the day. With two sparkling lakes, originally created for water storage for agricultural use offer mountain views, and a surprising variety of wildlife, it fe...

kbcampingtools/09-05-2025

Nestled in Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks, Long Canyon offers a surprisingly lush escape—a short yet richly rewarding hike that stands in stark contrast to the arid foothill surroundings. Distance: 1.5 miles with significant elevation change approximately 905 feet making this a moderately strenuous yet manageable out-and-back adventure. Difficulty: Rated hard by the City of Boulder with steep sections that are icy during the winter. Trekking poles are recommended and from October to Mar...

kbcampingtools/08-16-2025

There’s something magical about summer along the Boulder Creek path and a stop to enjoy Boulder Creek at Eben G. Fine Park . Located about a 10 mile ride from my home it sits right at the edge of downtown Boulder, and is a gateway to the canyon — a place where the chatter of the city fades into the rush of the creek, and the trail begins to wind into the foothills. The Boulder Canyon Trail connects the Boulder Creek Path into Boulder and follows the course of Boulder Creek as it climbs into the ...

kbcampingtools/08-05-2025

Chautauqua Park is a classic Boulder trailhead, but it’s especially magical early in the morning before most hikers arrive. With multiple loop options, it’s easy to adjust the hike to your time and energy level. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, making it perfect for your four-legged adventure buddies. Bring plenty of water for both you and your pup, especially in the summer heat! This is a crushed gravel and dirt trail, if you venture onto the Flat Irons Loop, this gets rocky and dogs can suffer cut pad...

kbcampingtools/08-01-2025

The Flatirons Loop is a Boulder icon, and for good reason. The combination of Ponderosa Pine forested switchbacks at the base of the Flat Irons, and open meadows provides great variety, and the rock formations make for some Instagram-worthy shots. While it’s a popular trail, heading out early in the morning or after work helps you avoid the crowds. Be prepared for a bit of elevation gain—this is a great workout in under two hours. These moderate grades make this an ideal trail for runners and a ...

kbcampingtools/07-29-2025

If you want a quick escape after work, Green Mountain is the perfect trail. Located just minutes from downtown Boulder, it offers a moderately steep climb with sweeping views of the Flatirons at the top. The trail is well-marked and usually quieter if you go on weekdays. Pro tip: Bring a headlamp if you’re heading up near sunset, as the descent can get dark quickly. Perfect for those who need a dose of nature but don’t have time for an all-day adventure. Bring you pup, horse, or hike alone for a...

kbcampingtools/07-11-2025

Every year, right after Memorial Day weekend, I make my favorite trip of the season— a drive up Trail Ridge Road to the Alpine Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park. Yes, I know, living in Boulder, Colorado does have many advantages and this is one of them! This is the sweet spot. The plows have carved massive snow walls through the high-altitude passes, and for a brief window, you can drive through towering corridors of snow before they melt away in the early June sun. The week after M...