BOULDER COUNTY, Colo. — Boulder Creek is closed to inner tubes and single-chamber flotation devices beginning Wednesday at 5 p.m., the Boulder County Sheriff's Office announced.
The closure includes the stretch of Boulder Creek from below Boulder Falls at Highway 119 to 55th Street in Boulder.
The sheriff's office said the decision was made "in the interest of public safety" due to the current water levels. On Wednesday, the creek was flowing at roughly 701 cubic feet per second (CFS), according to BCSO, and is expected to increase as the temperatures rise.
The combination of spring run-off and the scheduled release of water from Barker Reservoir will cause the creek water flow to rise, putting people and first responders at increased risk.
Golden
Clear Creek restrictions in effect Wednesday as of 8 a.m.
Single-chamber rafts, single-chamber belly boats and inner tubes are prohibited from the creek until the water flow levels come down to a safer level. Violators could face a $100 fine.
It is unclear if the closure will remain in effect for Boulder's Tube to Work Day, which is scheduled for July 12.
Kayaks and white-water canoes are exempt from the closure and still allowed on the creek. However, the sheriff's office is strongly encouraging kayakers to exercise caution and wear protective gear such as a life jacket, helmet and wet or dry suit.
