A Short Nature Walk and Photography Spot
Overview
Buckingham Park Trailhead is a small but convenient access point to Left Hand Creek in north Boulder, Colorado.
The creek is just a one- to two-minute walk from the parking lot, making this spot feel more like a local creekside park than a traditional hiking trailhead. It’s a quiet place to sit by the water, enjoy a picnic lunch, or let children explore the creek under supervision.
On the southeast side of the park, access to the Joder Trail (West Access) is available via Olde Stage Road.
🔎 Boulder Trail Index (All Trails)
Basic Information
Official Site: City of Boulder – Buckingham Park
Official Map: OSMP Trail Map (City of Boulder)
Location: Buckingham Park Parking Lot (North Boulder)
(📍 Link to Google Maps)
Elevation: ~5,500 ft (approximate)
Parking: Free parking lot
Restroom: Vault toilet near the parking area
Picnic Tables: Available
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Trailhead
A sign and trail map for Buckingham Park are posted in the parking area.
The trailhead primarily serves as access to Left Hand Creek and nearby open space connections. Information about the Joder Ranch / Joder Trail access is also displayed on the map.
Access to Left Hand Creek
From the parking lot, a short and well-maintained path leads to Left Hand Creek in about one to two minutes.
The creek flows from the foothills west of Boulder, originating near Left Hand Reservoir south of Brainard Lake. It eventually joins St. Vrain Creek downstream.
At Buckingham Park, the creek is calm and accessible, making it suitable for:
- Short nature breaks
- Picnic stops
- Creekside photography
- Family outings
While this is not a destination for long hikes, it offers a peaceful and easy way to experience Boulder’s Front Range waterways.
Connection to Joder Trail
On the southeast side of the park, Olde Stage Road provides access to Joder Trail (West Access). This allows visitors to extend their visit into a longer walk across open space if desired.
Summary
Buckingham Park Trailhead is best described as a local creek access point rather than a full hiking destination.
Its main appeal is simplicity — easy parking, a short walk to the water, and a relaxed setting along Left Hand Creek. For families, casual visitors, or anyone looking for a quick nature stop in north Boulder, it offers a quiet alternative to the more crowded Boulder Creek areas.
Though modest in scale, Buckingham Park reflects an everyday side of Boulder’s outdoor lifestyle.
Related books
(Amazon US)
→ Explore more trails: Boulder Trail Index
This page is part of a growing local trail archive maintained by the YRAIN Project.
