4 Great Trails in Boulder County for Hot Summer Days
Exploring Coal Creek in Lafayette, Colorado
At Thorne Nature Experience, we're always on the lookout for great spots to explore outside with young children. Two ingredients are essential for a successful day outside in the summer heat: shade and water. These are some fun spots in Boulder County that typically have an abundance of both.
S. Public Road Trailhead:
The Coal Creek corridor in Lafayette is full of wonders and is teeming with life. Start at S. Public Road Trailhead and a short wander will land you at many shady creekside spots that are perfect for exploration and play.
Anne U. White Trail:
This popular trail has many small creek crossings, fun rock bridges, and a fairly flat, shady forest trail. Parking is limited and this trail is pretty busy, so plan to arrive early.
Here’s a fun nature play activity, potion making, that will give you a sneak preview of Anne U. White.
Golden Ponds Nature Area:
Golden Ponds in western Longmont is a Thorne Summer Camp favorite! There are multiple ponds and a river to explore, plus so many creatures in the water and on land. This spot is a hidden gem!
Ceran Saint Vrain Trail:
If you have a bit more time, this trail that is above Jamestown is totally worth your while. At 8,300 feet, the area provides respite on hot days and the fairly flat trail follows a river with many spots that are perfect for picnics, hammocks, and river-side chilling. The water can be high and fast early in the summer, so plan your trip accordingly.
Thorne Nature Preschool in Boulder and Lafayette uses natural spaces like these as our classroom! If you are interested in a hands-on, nature-based program for your child, please reach out to us. Thorne Nature Preschool has a couple of spaces left for the fall and we are also signing families up for future school years.
Thorne Nature Preschool is for children ages 3-6 with locations in Boulder and Lafayette. Half and full-day options available. Thorne is a Colorado Universal Preschool provider.