Visit a Natural Area

A great resource for learning about and visiting Natural Areas is the new book: State Parks & Natural Areas by Frank Weston.

Click here to purchase the book.

Below are a sample of some of the natural areas open for visitation:

Aiken Canyon
The Aiken Canyon Natural Area in south-central Colorado sits between the plains and mountains where dramatic red spires and outcrops collide with rich green flora.  Learn more about the Aiken Canyon Natural Area, and visit this site.

Orient Mine
Located in the San Luis Valley, Orient Mine is a summer roosting site for 250,000 to 300,000 Brazilian free-tailed bats. Learn more about this natural area and visit the Orient Land Trust website for more information. 

Roxborough State Park
In addition to being a Natural Area, this is the only CO state park designated as a National Natural Landmark. See this natural area's webpage and visit the park's website for visitation information.

Boulder Mountain Park
Owned by the City of Boulder, this large open space provides excellent natural recreation opportunities to the residents of Boulder and surrounding areas. Learn more about the natural area and find the city website here.

Miramonte
Miramonte Natural Area is located within the Dan Noble State Wildlife Area in San Miguel County. The area is renowned for its recreational opportunities as well as its highly diverse habitats. Find out more about the natural area and visit the SWA website here.

Castlewood Canyon
Castlewood Canyon is a day use state park located along Cherry Creek in Douglas County. Nature lovers and groups enjoy environmental diversity on several hiking trails ranging from mild to moderate. for more information, see the natural area webpage and view the state park's website.