Natural Selections
Nature Hikes and Programs
Natural Selections is our ongoing series of educational programs on topics including ecology, wildlife, local history, night hikes, children’s programs, plus many more. All programs are free and open to the public. Please do not bring dogs.
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Teachers, scout troops and community groups can obtain free individual programs from Open Space and Mountain Parks naturalists. Follow this link to learn more.
 Download the Natural Selections May 2008 Schedule 
May Saturn’s Rings
Fri May 16 9 – 10:30 pm (bad weather date May 17)
Saturn’s splendid rings are one of the most beautiful sights in the universe – a “must see” experience. OSMP naturalist Dave Sutherland will point his telescope at the ringed planet and its moons, and locate other wonders of the night sky. Meet at Boulder Valley Ranch / Sage Trailhead, at the end of Longhorn Road 1 mi N of Boulder off Hwy 36.
How Do They Do That?!
Sat May 17 9 – 11:30 am
This lovely summer hike will focus on truly amazing examples of plant and animal survival adaptations evolved in response to environmental challenges. Join Naturalists Dick Jones and Lynne Sullivan on a tour of these marvels of evolution. Moderate 1.5 – 2.5 mile hike for adults. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage.
Colorful Travelers: Migratory Songbirds
Sun May 18 8 – 10 am
Who journeys thousands of miles, from steamy tropical jungles to Boulder’s creeks and back yards? Migratory songbirds are returning to the North for a summer of feeding and breeding--and thrilling birdwatchers along the way. Naturalist Dave Sutherland will take you to one of Boulder’s best birding spots. Birdwatchers of all abilities. Bring binoculars, meet at Doudy Draw Trailhead.
 Meadow Music
Mon May 19, 26 5:30 – 7 pm
Children and parents can join OSMP's Jeff Kagan and Mark Wesson for an evening of children's music and nature. We'll take a short hike to meet our animal friend of the week and then relax in the shadow of the Flatirons for 45 minutes of guitar and singing. Music will be appropriate for younger children but all ages are welcome! Bring a chair or blanket. Chautauqua Ranger Cottage. Although this program will be held most Monday nights, please check back to this website for updates.
 Beauty and Reflection: Photography
Tue May 20 7 – 8:30 pm
Spend an evening with Boulder photographer Christopher Brown, who will show a collection of his favorite images from OSMP and the Colorado Plateau. He will share what attracted him to the subject, how he went about photographing it, and how the final print relates to the original inspiration. This will be more about philosophy and aesthetics than technique. After the talk those who want can stay for an informal group discussion on photography. Chautauqua Community House, 301 Morning Glory Drive
Explore Your Open Space, For A Change of Pace!
Tue May 20 5:30 – 7 pm
Leave your hectic work day behind as you ease into the evening with a slow-paced, uplifting hike in our nearby foothills. From Flatirons to falcons to forests, naturalist Suzanne Michot will introduce you to the wildlife, plants, geology, and history of Boulder’s treasured trails. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage. Approx. 2 miles, 400’ climb.
Lions and Lions and Bears, Oh My
Wed May 21 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Gentle oversized kitties? Dangerous man-eaters? Learn the real truth about our wild enigmatic neighbor, the Mountain Lion. Guess who’s coming to dinner? The bears are back from their winter nap – learn what they are up to, and where they might dine if you’re not careful. Join naturalists Betty Naughton, Peter Stevenson and Deborah Menagh for this informative program on mountain lions and bears. George Reynolds Branch Boulder Public Library (3595 Table Mesa Drive, 1 block west of Broadway)
 Celebrating Wildflowers
Thu May 22 6 – 8 pm
Join botanist Megan Bowes for an easy, slow-paced hike to identify and learn about wildflowers blooming during Celebrating Wildflowers' National Wildflower Week. We will look for Wild Geranium, Harebells, Penstemon and others. Meet at South Mesa Trailhead. Bring a magnifying glass and wildflower book if you have them.
Springtime in the Rockies: Photography Workshop
Sat May 24 9 am – noon
Spend a morning with Boulder's own Christopher Brown, renowned landscape photographer. Explore philosophy, aesthetics, technique and your personal relationship with the land in pursuit of the perfect photograph. Any skill level may participate, but instruction is geared towards intermediate photographers who know how to operate their camera. Space is limited and reservations are required, 720-564-2083.
 Flatirons Hike: A Nature Tramp
Tue May 27 5:30 – 8 pm
Early day Chautauquans called their hikes “tramps.” We’ll do the same as we make our way to the top of the trail between the First and Second Flatirons. Suzanne Michot will lead participants on this moderately strenuous evening hike. There will be stops along the way to discover the geology, history and traditions behind these famous rocks. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage. 3 miles, 1,400’ climb.
Hippie Picnic Singalong
Wed May 28 6 – 8 pm
Join OSMP Staff Jeff Kagan and Mark Wesson for a Mountain Singalong! Be prepared for good times and a 30 minute hike (moderately strenuous) to the Bluebell Shelter. We'll strum old favorites from the Beatles, the Grateful Dead and Paul Simon, all beneath the Flatirons! Join us in song with the help of our psychedelic songbooks. This is a great program for families! Bring a picnic dinner, good hiking shoes and of course, your singing voice. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage.
Gardening with Native Flowers
Wed May 28 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Native plants are gorgeous additions to any garden. They need virtually no water or care, and support our local ecology. Naturalist and gardener Dave Sutherland will share information and growing tips so you can enjoy Boulder’s wildflowers in your own yard. Meet at Chautauqua Ranger Cottage.
 Destination: Ice Age
Sat May 31 9:30 am – 12 pm
Twelve thousand years ago, mammoths lumbered through Boulder’s cool deciduous forests. As glaciers melted, the climate dried up and the forests vanished . . . except for a few rare hidden pockets. Travel back with naturalist Dave Sutherland to one of the last remnants of the Ice Age where natural marvels await. Due to sensitivity of the habitat, space is limited to 15. Call 303-441-3440 for reservation and location.
 Stroll & Roll through Wildflowers!
Sat May 31 9 – 11 am
Hikers with or without disabilities will love this hike! Join naturalists Topher Downham and Betty Naughton for a stroll near South Boulder Creek looking for wildflowers in bloom. Meet at South Mesa Trailhead parking lot (N side of Eldorado Springs Rd). Wheelchair accessible. Extra wheelchairs available if needed or just to experience.
JuneDestination: Ice Age
Sun June 1 9:30 am – 12 pm
Twelve thousand years ago, mammoths lumbered through Boulder’s cool deciduous forests. As glaciers melted, the climate dried up and the forests vanished . . . except for a few rare hidden pockets. Travel back with naturalist Dave Sutherland to one of the last remnants of the Ice Age where natural marvels await. Due to sensitivity of the habitat, space is limited to 15. Call 303 441 3440 for reservation and location.
Gardening with Native Flowers
Sun June 1 1:30 – 3:30 pm
Native plants are gorgeous additions to any garden. They need virtually no water or care, and support our local ecology. Naturalist and gardener Dave Sutherland will share information and growing tips so you can enjoy Boulder’s wildflowers in your own yard. Meet at Chautauqua Ranger Cottage.
Meadow Music
Mon June 2, 9, 23, 30 5:30 – 7 pm
Children and parents can join OSMP's Jeff Kagan and Mark Wesson for an evening of children's music and nature. We'll take a short hike to meet our animal friend of the week and then relax in the shadow of the Flatirons for 45 minutes of guitar and singing. Music will be appropriate for younger children but all ages are welcome! Bring a chair or blanket. Chautauqua Ranger Cottage. Although this program will be held most Monday nights, please check back to this website for updates.
Hippie Picnic Singalong
Wed June 4 6 – 8 pm
Join OSMP Staff Jeff Kagan and Mark Wesson for a Mountain Singalong! Be prepared for good times and a 30 minute hike (moderately strenuous) to the Bluebell Shelter. We'll strum old favorites from the Beatles, the Grateful Dead and Paul Simon, all beneath the Flatirons! Join us in song with the help of our pyscadelic songbooks. This is a great program for families! Bring a picnic dinner, good hiking shoes and of course, your singing voice. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage.
 Explore NEW Bike Trails!
Sat June 7 9 – 11 am
Over the last couple of years, OSMP has opened ~ 10 miles of new biking opportunities, including 6 miles of brand new trail and the first trails west of Broadway available to bikes in more than 10 years! Join Ranger Joe Reale for an exploration of these great new trails, and some conversation about the past, present and future of biking and OSMP. Meet at the Marshall Mesa trailhead with plenty of water, a mountain bike in good order and be prepared for a fun 2-3 hr ride covering 10-15 miles. The Nature of Music
Sat June 7 8 – 11 am
Many connections exist between human music and the natural world. Animal songs inspire our compositions, and the rhythms of the seasons are reflected in our melodies. Join naturalists Craig Cogswell and Debbie Matlock on this moderate hike as we explore the musical landscape of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks and its possible relationship to human song. Space is limited and reservations are required, 720-564-2083.
Fishing for Kids
Sun June 8 4 – 6 pm
Ranger Jerry Katopodes will lead this fishing trip at Wonderland Lake to show kids how to hook the big one! All ages welcome. Some fishing equipment will be provided, but bring what you have. Parents will get advice on equipment, how to help youngsters fish, and where to go. Please call 303 441 3440 for reservations and meeting location. Limit: 12 children, ages 5 and up.
 Newcomer's Hike: Open Space 101
Wed June 11 5:30 – 8 pm Get a crash course in OSMP 101 with naturalist Jennelle Freeston. Enjoy an introduction to the area's biology, geology and history while hiking the McClintock Trail. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage for this moderately strenuous hike. 2.5 miles, 700’ elevation gain. Explore OSMP through Photography
Sat June 14 9 am – noon
Spend a morning with Boulder's own Christopher Brown, renowned landscape photographer. Explore philosophy, aesthetics, technique and your personal relationship with the land in pursuit of the perfect photograph. Any skill level may participate, but instruction is geared towards intermediate photographers who are competent with their camera and the finer points of focus, exposure and composition. Space is limited and reservations are required, 720-564-2083. Riparian Hike for People with Disabilities
Sun June 15 8 – 10 am
What’s it like to hike using a wheelchair, walker, cane or other assistive device? This hike is available to both people with disabilities and people who would like try out a wheelchair. Join Vijay Viswanathan for a casual hike on an easy trail through a riparian (streamside) area. We’ll enjoy the gorgeous distant view of the mountains and learn about the animal and plant life along South Boulder Creek. Wheelchairs provided to participants who want the experience, but may need to be shared. Meet at Bobolink Trailhead. Reservations preferred but not required, 303-441-3440.
Full Moon Night Hike for Women
Wed June 18 8 – 10 pm
Join other women in an experiential exploration of the dark in OSMP. What is it like out there at night? What does it evoke for you? Walk with naturalists Ciana, Margot, Anita and Lynne and find out what goes on under the light of the moon in our wild places. Meet at South Mesa Trailhead, 1.7 miles west of Highway 93 on north side of Eldorado Springs Drive.
Collage as an Expression of Nature
Sat June 21 9 am – Noon
Join us for this easy hike and workshop to explore the beautiful sights, colors, shapes and textures of Boulder’s OSMP. Join naturalists Jane Larson and Debbie Matlock as we walk the land for inspiration and explore the art of collage making. Space is limited and reservations are required, 720-564-2083. Solstice Hike for People with Disabilities
Sat June 21 8 – 10 am
What’s it like to hike using a wheelchair, walker, cane or other assistive device? This hike is available to both people with disabilities and people who would like try a wheelchair. Join Topher Downham for a casual hike on an easy, accessible trail. We’ll enjoy the gorgeous distant view of the mountains and learn about the summer solstice, its importance to earlier cultures, and their connection to nature. Wheelchairs provided for those who want the experience, but may need to be shared. Meet at South Mesa Trailhead. Reservations preferred but not required, 303-441-3440.
Hippie Picnic Singalong
Wed June 25 6 – 8 pm
Join OSMP Staff Jeff Kagan and Mark Wesson for a Mountain Singalong! Be prepared for good times and a 30 minute hike (moderately strenuous) to the Bluebell Shelter. We'll strum old favorites from the Beatles, the Grateful Dead and Paul Simon, all beneath the Flatirons! Join us in song with the help of our pyscadelic songbooks. This is a great program for families! Bring a picnic dinner, good hiking shoes and of course, your singing voice. Meet at the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage.
Journaling through the Seasons: Summer
Sat June 28 9 am – noon
Take the time to explore the seasons as they change the landscape of OSMP. Learn how to create a personal journal of your own experiences, impressions, and feelings about the land in which we live. Join naturalist and artist Damaris Methner on this moderate hike focusing on your unique relationship with the land as we enjoy summer in the montane mixed pine forest habitat. This is the second of a four part series exploring the seasons on OSMP. Feel free to attend one or all of the programs. Space is limited and reservations are required, 720-564-2083. ReWilding Minds
Sat June 28 9 – 11:30 am
Take a walk where we learn what nature teaches about slowing our minds to a state of mental wellbeing that is our true nature. Naturalist Margot Smit will help us look at health in the ponderosa pine ecosystem and what it can tell us about the health of our Wild Mind. Recommended for adults. Meet at McClintock trailhead, behind the big auditorium at Chautauqua.
Bobolink Trailhead Chautauqua Ranger Cottage Cherryvale OSMP administration building Cottonwood Trailhead Crown Rock Doudy Draw Trailhead Eagle TrailheadEnchanted Mesa - McClintock Flagstaff SummitFlatirons Vista Trailhead Foothills Trailhead Foothills Nature CenterGreenbelt Plateau Gregory Canyon Left Hand Trailhead Marshall Mesa Trailhead NCAR N. Teller Farms Trailhead Realization Point Sanitas Trailhead Boulder Valley Ranch - Sage Trailhead pikestaff Settlers Park/Red Rocks Sawhill Ponds Sombrero Marsh South Boulder Creek WestSouth Mesa TrailheadTeller Farms Wonderland Lake
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Open Space & Mtn Parks 
