Update: Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work (2026)
Boulder County Parks & Open Space announces a temporary closure of the Boulder Canyon Trail between Elephant Buttresses and the Dome trailhead for rockfall mitigation work. Crews will be scaling loose rock and installing mesh netting along a 400-foot section of cliff face above the trail. The closure is expected to last approximately three weeks, weather permitting.
Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 28% of properties in the Nederland area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.
The Legion Park open space property encompasses 916 acres and features 5 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.
How to Participate
The project includes improvements along SH-7 / Ute Highway between Nederland and the intersection with Niwot Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2026 with completion expected within 9 months.
A community information session will be held at the Nederland library on Sunday, May 31 at 7:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.
Related Programs
Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 53% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.
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