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Wonderland Lake Park: A Tranquil Urban Oasis

Escape to nature in Boulder's Wonderland Lake Park: scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and Flatirons views await!

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Wonderland Lake Park, nestled in north Boulder, Colorado, offers a serene escape with its scenic lake, diverse wildlife, and accessible trails. A popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, it provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and simply enjoying nature's beauty against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountain foothills.

A brief summary to Wonderland Lake Park

  • Monday 5 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-11 pm
  • Friday 5 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching; the park is home to a wide array of bird species.
  • Enjoy a picnic with a view; the park has several picnic areas with tables and grills.
  • Take the 1.5-mile loop trail around the lake for an easy and scenic hike.
  • Check out the Foothills Nature Center for educational programs and slide shows.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Boulder, take the SKIP bus towards North Boulder. The SKIP bus stops on Broadway right by the Wonderland Lake trailhead. The local bus fare is $3, which provides a three-hour pass for unlimited rides and transfers.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of North Boulder, accessing Wonderland Lake Park is easily achievable by foot. From the intersection of Broadway and Sumac, head west on Sumac Avenue until you reach Poplar Avenue. Turn left onto Poplar Avenue, and you'll find the park entrance a short distance away. This walk is roughly 0.3 miles and should take approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    From downtown Boulder, head north on Broadway. Turn west onto Poplar Avenue. The park entrance and trailhead are located at 601 Poplar Avenue. There is a parking lot at the trailhead, but it has limited capacity with only 19 standard parking spaces and 2 ADA spaces. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Wonderland Lake Park

Wonderland Lake Park, a 42-acre haven in north Boulder, Colorado, provides a tranquil retreat from city life. The park's centerpiece, Wonderland Lake, was originally created as a reservoir from the Silver Lake Ditch and is now owned by the City of Boulder. It serves as both a recreational area and an urban wildlife refuge. The park features a 1.5-mile loop trail that encircles the lake, perfect for hiking, leisurely strolls, and observing the diverse ecosystem. The trail is generally easy to navigate and wheelchair accessible. Keep an eye out for paragliders launching from Wonderland Hill, adding a unique spectacle to the scenery. Wonderland Lake Park is a prime location for birdwatching, with various avian species inhabiting the area. The park's diverse habitats, including grasslands and wetlands, support a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Boulder's iconic Flatirons from various points within the park. The park also offers amenities such as picnic areas and a playground, making it ideal for family outings. Fishing is permitted in the lake, offering a chance to catch trout. The Foothills Nature Center is nearby, hosting nature programs and slide shows.

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