Sheriff closes Boulder Creek to tubers due to dangerous conditions

BOULDER, Colo. — The waters of Boulder Creek are frigid, high and fast — the dangerous conditions prompted the county sheriff to close the creek to tubers Wednesday.

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office said the closure included Boulder Creek from below Boulder Falls on Highway 119 to 55th Street in the city of Boulder.

The sheriff's office said the flow rate of the creek is approximately 701 cubic feet per second and as temperatures increase, flows will begin to increase as well. The creek closure includes recreational watercraft such as single-chamber rafts, single-chamber inflatable boats and inner tubes.

The closure will remain in place until water flow levels in the creek are considered safer for single-chamber flotation devices such as inflatable tubes and rafts. Violations of the closure will result in a $100 fine.

Whitewater kayaks and canoes are still allowed on the creek, with a warning that the water may still be dangerous. The sheriff urged anyone spending time on the water to use caution and wear safety equipment like a life jacket, dry or dry suit and helmet in and around the water.

> Watch the video above: More streams near tubing, swimming while rivers are high

Spring runoff and the normally expected release of water from Barker Reservoir will result in increased water flow from the creek, increasing risks to people recreating and first responders performing water rescues,” the office said “Increased risks that are present during higher water flows include cold water temperatures, floating debris and obstructions in the water that can entangle a person.

The Sheriff's Office closed access to the North and Saint Vrain Creek tubes on June 7 due to rapid flow and rising waters.

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