Ranger Cottage at Chautauqua Park

The Ranger Cottage at Chautauqua Park is a great place to start your visit to Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks. It is nestled next to the Colorado Chautauqua at the foothills of the Rockies just below Boulder's famous Flatirons. The cottage and trailhead are the hub of and gateway to OSMP activity and information. Hiking, climbing, and bird watching are some of the popular activities in the area. The cottage is home to a small informative nature center and friendly, knowledgeable OSMP staff. You can get free maps, brochures, hiking suggestions, and the latest information about weather, trail conditions and wildlife closures. A rock garden and picnic tables provide a great place to enjoy the amazing view of the Flatirons and the many rays of sunshine. Don't miss the Ann Armstrong Memorial Native Garden surrounding the ranger cottage, filled with beautiful native wildflowers and shrubs. Nature discovery packs are available for checkout, for free at the Ranger Cottage, which contain binoculars, scavenger hunts, magnifying glasses, field guides, art materials, suggested activities and more, best for ages 4 and up