Are you new to Boulder and a fan of everything outdoors? If so, you might want to delve into the Boulder outdoor meetup group scene. There’s every interest imaginable represented and if you’re new to town, you won’t be for long!
Boulder’s outdoor meetup groups are fantastic ways for new and seasoned residents alike to meet new friends, get outside (or inside), and do activities they love. Here are some general tips before we list links to some of the larger meetup groups in the area that apply no matter what group you consider joining.
- Fees: Most Boulder outdoor meetup groups are free to join. While individual activities might have fees (such as climbing in a rock climbing gym, transportation costs, lift tickets, gear rental, or permits), they’re usually posted on the scheduled activity. You might have to place a deposit if you reserve a place on a limited-space trip.
- Safety: If you’re indulging in a new activity, especially with people you don’t know, use caution. Instruction from seasoned enthusiasts can always make your experience more enjoyable, but don’t ever place yourself in an uncomfortable or unsafe position.
Now, here are some great resources to help you get outside, meeting new people, and enjoying everything the Boulder outdoor meetup group scene has to offer. Note that all descriptions are from the specific meetup group’s page and information does change periodically.
Climbing Groups
Rock and Soul Climbers: A community of Trad, Sport, lead, top roping, single or multi-pitch climbers who love to do it all and be surrounded by others with the passion for climbing. If you’re leading 5.12 Rs or in need of beta and just learning to tie in you’ll be sure to find something with us. In the gym, day trips to local crags or excursions to hit climbing meccas is pretty common with this group.
Cycling Groups
Boulder Mountain Bikers: This group is for any recreational mountain biker that wants to meet up with people for trail rides around Boulder. There are rides for all skill levels: beginner, intermediate, and maybe even a few advanced. The rides are meant to be fun for all, so those intimidated by more advanced riders, fear not. These are ego-free rides. If you need to get off your bike and walk it up a steep or tricky section, it’s OK! We’ll try to keep a pace that works for the whole group.
Boulder Slow Riders Club: Join us if you’d like to take leisurely road bike rides on the weekend through the scenic countryside around Boulder. Our pace will be slow compared to most cycling clubs, maybe a mild step up from cruiser rides. We’ll just go at our own pace. A typical ride might be 20 miles round-trip in the Boulder area. We go at about a pace of 12-14 mph on the flats, but stop frequently, so the overall pace with stops is about 8 mph over about a 3-hour ride.
Hiking Groups
Colorado Explorers: This outdoor group is geared towards fairly strenuous outdoor activities in which your body provides the principal means of movement. This includes hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, biking, etc. Members should already be in good physical and mental shape, and be ready for a workout. We try to maintain a decent yet enjoyable pace to accommodate photo stops, rest breaks, and “holy cow” views. We are not trying to race to the top, or get there by a certain time. It’s enjoying the journey along the way that is important.
Boulder Social Hikers: Rushing mountain streams, green forests, abundance of wildflowers, beautiful natural lakes and gorgeous high country views – throw into the mix interesting people, stimulating conversation and exercise – and it doesn’t get much better! Any member of Boulder Social Hikers can schedule a hike or a meeting so if anyone has a particular place they would like to go or something they would like to do please feel free to schedule that.
Interested in finding more groups? Just click here to learn more about more Boulder outdoor meetup groups.
