Best of Boulder, Colorado

Gearing up to fish on Boulder Creek

Kayakers navigate the course on Boulder Creek

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Fly Fishing

Not three minutes from downtown Boulder, you can cast your line for a chance at a granddaddy brown or rainbow trout. Head upstream from the tubers and swimmers and you'll find good fly-fishing action on Boulder Creek, which bisects Boulder going west-east as it runs right through the heart of town. Try your luck at catch-and-release with mayflies, caddis flies, or emergers. July and August are usually good months for angling, but it all depends on water level and temperature, so call and check with a local outfitter.

Other good fly-fishing spots include South Boulder Creek in Eldorado Springs (about eight miles southwest of Boulder off CO 170), which holds rainbows and small brookies—go during the week to avoid the crowds. Rocky Mountain National Park is just 35 miles outside of Boulder, and it's the only place you can fish for native greenback cutthroat trout (between 12 and 16 inches). Head north on U.S. 36 to Lyons, then northwest on U.S. 36 to Estes Park.

Guided trips/equipment rentals: Kinsley & Co. Outfitters, 800-442-7420, www.kinsleyoutfitters.com

Boulder Creek

Small brookies and browns lurk within the eddies of Boulder Creek as the stream runs through Eben G. Fine Park, but the creek gets pretty congested with kids (and adults) floating by on inner tubes. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em! Cool off with a half-mile float down Boulder Creek on a hot summer day. Investing in a tube at a local gas station will set you back about $10–$12.

If you need to get your paddling fix, you can do that on Boulder Creek as well. Depending on water levels, kayakers can navigate the slalom course just west of Eben G. Fine Park all year round.

Clinics and kayak rentals: Boulder Outdoor Center, 2707 Spruce Street, 800-364-9376, www.boc123.com

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