The Flowers are going nuts on Jefferson County Open Space northwest of the intersection of Hwy 93 and Hwy 72. These were taken on tuesday and for more images check out some Recent Images on my website.
Just an FYI - the space directly northwest of 93 and 72 is Boulder Open Space, even though it's in JeffCo. If it's further back towards the mountains, it converts to JeffCo Open Space. Be careful and don't just head out there without directions or knowledge of the area: the Boulder portion of the space, which is extremely beautiful right now, is also off-limits to public non-permitted access.
I saw someone up there on Sunday with a tripod and camera, pulled up, verified that I wasn't supposed to be there, and pulled out before crossing the access fence and snow fence that blocked any good pictures.
Yes you are right. The land along US93 is off limits. My images were taken on Jefferson County Open Space and so you must follow the rules of Jeffco Open Space. Here is a link to the Rules
The Boulder property is protected as a unique ecosystem, which is why it's open to permitted traffic only. I can't remember the specifics, but the area just east of where Michael took his stunning flowerscapes was the location of the Bio-Blitz a couple of years back, and the scientists involved found several new species when they combed the area.
Michael, very nice pic! I'm definitely interested in going this weekend. I found Plainview Rd on my Colorado Atlas off Hwy 72. It indicates there are some trails, but the link you included above seems to ambiguously say they don't really have trails in that area. Are you taking these photos near the road, or can you hike in a bit?
Also, let me know if you'd like to possibly join up for shooting.
Yes, Cloudman Jr., this is quite spectacular. So are the other images in your link. You've done well, Grasshopper.
Posted by Doug Andrews on May 25, 2007 at 10:47 PM
Just came back from this area and yes the flowers are spectacular. You can get some shots from the roadside, just takes some careful composing. Planning on returning tomorrow evening with the wife. Saw and heard quite a few birds out there and she loves to bird watch.
I was just out there this morning; there are still some really good patches, but the DYCs are fading. Penstemon and other flowers are hanging in there strong, but without the masses of yellow it's not quite the same. If you want to go, go today or tomorrow. Thanks for the directions and links to the JeffCo OS Rules.
Chautauqua is past prime, IMHO. Some Lupine, but most of the composites are done for now; Butter-and-Eggs are predominating.
Discussion
13 repliesI saw someone up there on Sunday with a tripod and camera, pulled up, verified that I wasn't supposed to be there, and pulled out before crossing the access fence and snow fence that blocked any good pictures.
Can someone explain why a County open space is not public? Sounds strange.
Also, let me know if you'd like to possibly join up for shooting.
Chautauqua is past prime, IMHO. Some Lupine, but most of the composites are done for now; Butter-and-Eggs are predominating.