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Fall in Love With Boulder: Seasonal Activities to Try This Autumn

There is something about fall in Boulder that makes it hard to stay indoors. Maybe it's the cooler mornings, the changing leaves, or the fact that hiking suddenly feels enjoyable again after the heat of summer. Whatever the reason, autumn is one of the best times of year to get out and explore. Living at Habitat Apartments in Gunbarrel puts you close to some of Boulder's favorite fall spots without having to spend your whole weekend in traffic. Whether you're looking for a quiet morning outside or a fun afternoon with friends, here are a few ways to make the most of the season. Watch the Leaves Change at Twin Lakes One of the nicest things about living in Gunbarrel is that you don't always have to drive across town to enjoy nature. Twin Lakes Open Space is just minutes away and is especially beautiful once the cottonwoods begin turning yellow. The trails are mostly flat, making them perfect for an easy walk, a morning run, or an evening stroll after work. Bring your camera because the reflections on the water can be stunning this time of year. Spend a Saturday on Pearl Street Pearl Street has a different feel in the fall. Sidewalk cafés stay busy, local shops start decorating for the season, and the cooler weather makes wandering downtown much more enjoyable. Pick up a coffee, browse a few bookstores, listen to the street musicians, or grab lunch on a patio before sweater weather disappears. Take a Scenic Drive You don't have to travel far to enjoy Colorado's famous fall colors. The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is one of our state's most beautiful drives, especially from late September through early October. Pack a few snacks, roll the windows down, and enjoy an afternoon exploring mountain towns like Nederland or Ward. It's an easy weekend adventure when you live in Boulder. Get Back on the Trails If summer hiking isn't your favorite because of the heat, fall is your season. Nearby favorites include Chautauqua Park, the LoBo Trail, and Sawhill Ponds. The cooler temperatures make longer hikes much more comfortable, and you'll often find yourself sharing the trails with fewer people than during peak summer months. Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch Fall wouldn't be complete without pumpkins, apple cider, and a little nostalgia. Several farms around Boulder County offer pumpkin patches, hayrides, corn mazes, and seasonal treats throughout September and October. They're a fun outing whether you're visiting with family, friends, or simply looking for the perfect pumpkin for your apartment. Cozy Up at Your Favorite Coffee Shop One of the simplest ways to enjoy the season is slowing down for an hour with a warm drink. Lucky for Gunbarrel residents, you're just a short drive from plenty of great coffee shops. Find a comfortable chair, bring a book, or catch up on work while enjoying the change of seasons outside. Enjoy Boulder Before Winter Arrives One of the best parts about autumn is that it feels a little less rushed. The busiest tourist season has started to wind down, the weather is comfortable, and it's easy to appreciate everything that makes Boulder special. Living in Gunbarrel means you can decide on a last-minute hike, dinner downtown, or scenic drive without spending half your day getting there. Fall has a way of bringing people outdoors. From nearby trails and open space to downtown Boulder and weekend mountain drives, you're never far from your next favorite fall tradition. If you're looking for an apartment that keeps you connected to both nature and the city, explore Habitat Apartments and see why so many people love calling Gunbarrel home.

Late-Season Gardening Guide

Gardening is among the most popular summer hobbies, but it doesn’t have to end as fall beckons. There are several ways to help your flowers flourish, your beets blossom, and your turnips turn up day after day. Consider the following: Water Wisely Colorado might not be desert-dry, but it’s not exactly bathing in humidity, either. Hot days in August or early September often require an irrigation plan, one that doesn’t violate water restrictions. Instead of watering more often, aim to water more deeply (as this encourages roots to grow). Watering in the early morning, when temperatures are low and the sun is on its best behavior, also helps minimize evaporation and reduces the risk of fungal disease. Focus on Cool-Weather Vegetables The late-summer weeks are the ideal time to plant crops that flourish in the fall. Some of the crops most likely to thrive as temperatures drop include: Lettuce Spinach Swiss chard Arugula Radishes Kale Beets Turnips Some of these can even withstand frost, developing hints of sweetness when topped off with a little freeze. Beware of Seasonal Pests With wasps crashing barbecues and mosquitoes feasting on your precious plasma, pests seem like they’re everywhere during the summer. But they don’t disappear as autumn nears. In fact, some pests are more prominent in changing climates. Be on the lookout for the following creepy crawlers and wigglers: Grasshoppers Aphids Squash bugs Spider mites Worms (especially on tomatoes and cabbage) Addressing minor pest issues early keeps them from becoming major infestations. Heed the Hail The late summer months have a way of hailing hail, with surging storms doing a number on your roof and your radishes. Hail season can extend into September, making you feel like you’re starting your garden over from square one each time Mother Nature throws a tantrum. To protect your hard work, check the weather forecast daily and keep lightweight row covers, shade cloths, and frost blankets on hand to shield flowers and vegetables. Even some protection is better than none! Participate in a Community Garden If you don’t have a yard to set up a garden, there’s no need to fret about fennel or stress about snow peas. Growing Gardens has spent nearly 30 years offering community gardens to people across Boulder County. It now operates seven garden spaces, provides 800 people with space to grow their own food, and donates roughly 1,000 pounds of fresh produce to food banks each year. The Habitat Apartments are located in Gunbarrel, with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

August 2026 Events in Boulder, Colorado

Days are getting shorter, and summer is slinking away, making room for fall festivities. But it’s not over yet; plenty of warm-weather adventures are coming down the pike, milking the season for all it’s worth. If you’re looking to take advantage of summer’s last push of the year, consider the following: Arts in the Park 2026 Arts in the Park (a blend of the arts and cultural performances) takes place at various times during the summer, including several Sundays in August. Stop by the Boulder Bandshell (on Canyon Blvd) to enjoy the following lineup: August 2: Beyond Academia Free Skool August 16: Boulder Summer Lyrics August 23: Arts Hub While some events are free, others require tickets. First Friday First Friday is an arts-appreciation tradition that takes place in various locations across the Front Range, including Pearl Street. Head out on August 7 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm to celebrate this monthly magic. Connect with your community, shop or dine at local businesses, and explore the talents of local and not-so-local artists. Boulder Taco Fest Boulder Taco Fest takes place on the afternoon of August 22nd. Featuring dozens of local kitchens, live music, creekside margaritas, and Lucha Libre wrestling, it’s like Taco Tuesday... but on a Saturday! Come early to participate in a fun run along Boulder’s most popular paths; build up an appetite before you dig into hard-shelled heaven. Wheels and Walls Wheels and Walls is a guided bike tour that takes you through downtown Boulder, featuring vibrant street art and a chance to get some exercise. Discover murals created by local, national, and international artists, including those brought to life with augmented reality. Use your smartphone to discover the creativity hidden inside. Boulder Sunset Run The Boulder Sunset Run, ironically, kicks off a few hours after sunrise. Starting around 7:15 am on August 29, it features both 5K and 10K events and bids summer a proper farewell. It invites leisure and serious runners to stretch their legs amid the incredible scenery of Boulder Reservoir. The out-and-back course is fast and flat, with a slight downhill slope near the end (so you can sprint your way across the finish line). Summer might be winding down, but it’s not over yet. Whether you venture out to one of the above or something else, there’s tons of enjoyment still to be had. The Habitat Apartments are located in Gunbarrel, with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

Pet-Friendly Summer Adventures Around Boulder, Colorado

Summer in Boulder is hard to beat, especially when you have a dog that loves getting outside as much as you do. From scenic walking trails to dog-friendly patios, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season with your four-legged companion. If you live in Gunbarrel, many of these local favorites are just a short drive away. Take a Walk Around Twin Lakes One of the perks of living in Gunbarrel is having easy access to Twin Lakes Open Space . The trails around the lakes are perfect for a casual walk with your furry friend, and the mountain views make it easy to forget you’re only minutes from home. It’s a great spot for a morning outing before the day heats up or an evening walk after work. Check Out Boulder’s Open Space Trails Boulder has no shortage of trails that welcome leashed dogs. Davidson Mesa Open Space is a popular option thanks to its wide paths and incredible views of the Flatirons. If you’re looking for something a little longer, the trails around Boulder Reservoir offer plenty of room to explore while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Remember to bring water for both you and your pup, especially during the warmer months. Let Your Dog Burn Off Some Energy Sometimes dogs just need a place to run and play. The Twin Lakes Dog Park is a favorite among local pet owners because of its convenient location and open space. It’s a great place for dogs to socialize while owners catch up with neighbors and fellow dog lovers. Valmont Dog Park is another popular choice if you’re looking for a larger off-leash area. Grab a Bite on a Dog-Friendly Patio One of the best parts of summer is spending time outside, and many Boulder-area restaurants and breweries welcome dogs on their patios. After a hike or walk, consider stopping at a local spot where your pup can relax by your side while you enjoy a meal or a cold drink. Many businesses even keep water bowls available for visiting dogs, making patio season a little more enjoyable for everyone. Spend a Day by the Water If your dog enjoys being near the water, Boulder Reservoir is worth a visit. The surrounding paths provide plenty of space for walking, jogging, and taking in the views. Nearby Waneka Lake Park in Lafayette is another peaceful option for a relaxing afternoon stroll. These locations are especially beautiful during the early morning and evening hours when temperatures are cooler. Enjoy Summer Close to Home One of the advantages of living at Habitat Apartments is being close to so many outdoor destinations. Whether you’re heading out for a quick walk around Twin Lakes, exploring a new trail, or meeting friends at a pet-friendly patio, there are plenty of ways to enjoy summer with your dog nearby. Sometimes the best adventures are the simple ones, and around Boulder, there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of the season with your favorite companion by your side. At Habitat Apartments, it's easy to enjoy Colorado's outdoor lifestyle with your pet by your side. From nearby trails and open spaces to local dog parks and pet-friendly hangouts, you'll find plenty of ways to make the most of every season in Gunbarrel. Explore our available floor plans and see why Habitat Apartments is a great place for both you and your four-legged companion to call home.

Weekend Reset: Simple Self-Care Ideas Around Gunbarrel

Weekends have a funny way of disappearing. You make plans to catch up on chores, maybe run a few errands, and before you know it, Sunday night rolls around, and Monday is staring you in the face. Instead of trying to cram everything into two days, consider using part of your weekend as a reset. Not a complete overhaul of your life. Just a few simple things that help you feel rested, recharged, and ready for the week ahead. One of the perks of living in Gunbarrel is that some of the best ways to unwind are right outside your door. Start the Day with Some Fresh Air When the weather is nice, getting outside for even 30 minutes can completely change the tone of your day. The trails around Twin Lakes Open Space are perfect for a morning walk. You'll find water views, mountain scenery, and plenty of space to slow down and clear your head before the weekend gets busy. If you're feeling more active, hop on part of the LoBo Trail , which connects Boulder and Longmont and offers miles of scenic paths for walking, running, or cycling. Treat Yourself to a Slow Morning Not every weekend needs to start with a packed schedule. One of the simplest forms of self-care is giving yourself permission to slow down. Grab a coffee from OZO Coffee's Gunbarrel location , find a sunny spot, and spend an hour reading, journaling, or simply people-watching. It sounds simple because it is. Sometimes the little things are the most restorative. Give Your Apartment a Quick Refresh A reset does not always have to mean leaving home. Many people find that spending 20 or 30 minutes tidying up on Sunday makes the entire week feel more manageable. Put on your favorite playlist, open the windows, wash the sheets, and clear off the kitchen counters. You do not need to deep clean the entire apartment. Just focus on creating a space that feels calm when Monday arrives. Explore a New Spot in Boulder One of the benefits of living in Gunbarrel is how easy it is to enjoy everything Boulder has to offer without being right in the middle of downtown. Spend an afternoon strolling Pearl Street, visiting a local bookstore, or grabbing lunch at a restaurant you've never tried before. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes to break out of the workweek routine. Make Time for Something That Isn't Productive This may be the hardest self-care tip on the list. Not everything has to serve a purpose. Watch a movie. Read a novel. Sit on your balcony. Call a friend. Take a nap. There is value in activities that exist simply because you enjoy them. End the Weekend on a Calm Note A great weekend reset does not mean squeezing every last minute out of Sunday. Instead, try slowing things down in the evening. Prep a few meals, glance at your calendar for the week ahead, and spend some time doing something relaxing before bed. A little preparation can go a long way toward making Monday feel less hectic. Life Feels Better When You Have Room to Recharge One of the reasons so many people love living in Gunbarrel is the balance it offers. You have easy access to Boulder, beautiful open spaces, local trails, and quiet neighborhoods, making it easier to step away from the daily rush. At Habitat Apartments, that balance is part of everyday life. Whether your ideal weekend includes exploring the outdoors, enjoying local coffee shops, or simply relaxing at home, you'll find plenty of opportunities to recharge right here in the neighborhood. Explore our available floor plans and discover why so many residents love calling Gunbarrel home.

July 2026 Events in Boulder, Colorado

Summer is officially here, with warm-weather activities in full swing and a variety of options, from adventure to avocado stands, around every corner. As a Colorado gem tucked next to the fabulous Flatirons, Boulder doesn’t disappoint, offering seasonal staples like patio people-watching, farmers’ markets, Chautauqua hiking, and more. But July invites something else. Chock-full of events beyond the traditional Boulder benefits, it offers you a chance to explore something new. Mark your calendars for the following: Bands on the Bricks Live from Pearl Street, Wednesday nights only! Bands on the Bricks takes place each week in July, ending on July 29th. From 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, music lovers, shoppers, and those out for an evening stroll can enjoy free concerts featuring local musicians and up-and-coming bands. The beer garden, open to those 21 and over, offers happy hour from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Lafayette Fireworks Show Boulder doesn’t host a public fireworks show this Fourth of July, but you can find the rockets’ red glare just down the road. Lafayette’s Independence Day celebration kicks off at 4:00 pm and features food trucks, live music, a family fun zone, and a fireworks finale over Waneka Lake. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday! Colorado Music Festival The Colorado Music Festival returns for its 50th anniversary, kicking off July 9th and running through August 9th. This year’s festival is headlined by a wide-ranging, eclectic, and uber-talented lineup of musicians, including pianists, violinists, and clarinetists. Concerts take place at the historic Chautauqua stage on Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Tuesdays. Buy tickets here ! Boulder Cruiser Rides Boulder Cruiser Rides are back because riding a bike is, well, riding a bike. These free rides depart from Greenleaf Park every Thursday at 7:30 pm through Halloween. With a slow, steady pace, they’re open to everyone, from inexperienced riders to fitness buffs, and include music, lights, and a dance party afterward! Pearl Street Arts Fest Channel your inner artist because the annual Pearl Street Arts Fest is returning! Taking place July 17–19, the festival features more than 100 artists showcasing their work across 13+ artistic disciplines. First held in 1978, it’s been an annual tradition for decades and has become one of the region’s best-known festivals. July might be 31 days long, but it goes by in the blink of an eye! Take part in one of the above and make the most of the month! The Habitat Apartments is in Gunbarrel, with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly amenities, and multiple floor plans. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.