Boulder County Sheriff Closes Boulder Creek to Tubing

On Wednesday, June 12 at 5:00 p.m., Boulder Creek will be closed to tubing and single chamber flotation devices such as blow-up rafts or inflatable paddle boards. Boulder County Sheriff Curtis Johnson, working with the City of Boulder, has made this decision in the interest of public safety. The closure includes the area of Boulder Creek from below Boulder Falls at Highway 119, to 55th Street in the city of Boulder.

According to a press release issued by the Boulder County Sheriff’s office, “Today, Boulder Creek was flowing at approximately 701 CFS and is expected to continue to increase as temperatures rise. Spring run-off, and the normal scheduled release of water from Barker Reservoir, will cause the creek water flow to rise, increasing risks to people recreating and first responders performing water rescues. Increased risks which are present during higher water flows, include cold water temperatures, floating debris, and obstructions in the water which can snag a person.”

Kayaks and white-water canoes are still permitted during this closure. However, anyone spending time on a waterway that's still open or using a boat that's allowed should keep in mind that the water might still be dangerous. Always be careful and wear safety gear when you're in or near the water.

“We urge community members to always be safe when recreating around water, and especially now when the waters are high and moving fast,” says Parks and Recreation Director Ali Rhodes. “Swift, cold water is dangerous and conditions can change quickly."

The closure will remain in place until the water flow levels in the creek are considered safer for single chamber flotation devices such as tubes and inflatable rafts.

The City of Boulder does not make final decisions about creek closures. The Boulder County Sheriff is authorized to close waterways under Colorado Revised Statute (C.R.S.) 33-13-110(2)(c). Violations of the closure are a civil infraction and will result in a $100.00 fine.