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Park and trails · Boulder, Colorado
Chautauqua Park
Park at the foot of the Flatirons, Boulder’s sandstone slabs, with trails of various levels and a historic complex of cabins and an auditorium.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park sits on Boulder’s southwest side at the foot of the Flatirons, five large tilted sandstone slabs that have become the city’s symbol. It was established in 1898 as the headquarters of a summer educational movement, the Chautauqua, and still preserves the wooden auditorium, the dining hall and dozens of cabins from that era, now a National Historic Landmark.
Trails of various difficulty levels start from the park lawn. The shortest ones lead to the base of the First and Second Flatiron; others climb to the Royal Arch viewpoint, a natural stone arch, or follow the network of mountain trails to the west. Climbers use the faces of the slabs.
In summer the auditorium hosts concerts and films, and the lawn is a popular picnic spot.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to four hours, depending on the trail.
Best time
In the morning, from April to October, before the heat and summer thunderstorms. Parking often fills on weekends.
How to get there
About 3 km from downtown Boulder. On summer weekends the city often runs a shuttle to the park.
Tip
Bring water and sunscreen: the trails gain elevation quickly and the sun is strong at altitude. Arrive early, because parking spots near the entrance fill up fast on weekends.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Chautauqua Park
Which trail to take at Chautauqua?
To start, take the trail to the base of the First Flatiron—short with a steady climb. The Royal Arch route is longer and steeper.
Is there an entrance fee for Chautauqua Park?
There is no park entrance fee; parking may be paid during certain periods.
When is Chautauqua Park quieter?
On weekday mornings; on summer weekends the park and parking fill up.