Detailed review by 1krispy1
1krispy1
Broomfield, USA97%
The Bobolink Trail is in the south east section of the city of Boulder, Colorado. As luck would have it I work in Boulder and frequently drive by the trail. It is a bit of the beaten path of Boulder but by no means challenging to find or use, just off the main drives that's all. In fact it is well used the first attempt to get in and do a hike was blocked as the parking lot was filled. On this day however it was open and I quickly found a spot.
This section of the trail is a part of a much larger system that works its way along South Boulder Creek. We are visiting a section that runs about a mile to a mile and a half. It consists of riparian, short grass and long grass prairie. In fact it is a somewhat shrinking habitat due to human expansion. In summer the paths namesake comes to nest in the fields next to the creek. The city has placed fencing along both sides of the path to help insure the Bobolinks will be able to nest unmolested. As you can see from the photos for the attraction the fencing does nothing to prohibit the enjoyment of the area, just keeps us from trampling nesting areas.
This area has historically been a ranching and farming area with lots of grazing. Much of the habitat is not native grasses or forbs. However the area still attracts a great variety of wildlife. I have on occasion as I pass by on my way home from work seen the deer peeking out from their cover as they prepare to enter the grassy part of the area to begin feasting on the grasses. There are many types of raptors in the area as well. Just across the road is a small reservoir that is also part of the Boulder Open Space program. It is home to many ducks and shorebirds which the raptors occasionally invite over to dinner. Despite the fact the path is well used the area is quite. The walk was enjoyable. It is possible to go quite a ways. The path goes under South Boulder road all the way to Marshall Road a round trip hike would be several miles. My hike was only to South Boulder Road a distance of about 1.5 miles. The air was crisp but not too cold, most of the path was paved. The fact that it had recently snowed was no problem. Sections of the path separate from the main body and get closer to the creek. The water was bubbling along peacefully. The sound of it was very relaxing. In a few more weeks when the run off from the mountain snow melt begins the creek will become much more lively. The bobolink and other seasonal birds will return and the area will be worth another visit to be sure.
Bobolink Trailhead9
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