Mountain Lion Activity Temporarily Closes Boulder Trail Over the Weekend
A popular Boulder hiking trail was temporarily closed over the holiday weekend, after rangers observed increased mountain lion activity in the area.
Just after 9:30 a.m. on Sunday (July 4), Boulder County Ranger Hartnett tweeted that the Anne U. White Trail would be closed to visitors for the day, after a mountain lion was seen actively hunting a deer at one of the watering holes in the vicinity.
Around 9 a.m. the following day, rangers tweeted that the trail was reopen, but advised users to keep dogs on leashes and to avoid letting children run ahead or lag behind.
Mountain lions are fairly common in Boulder, but because they are so quiet and elusive, they're not spotted all too often. However, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the number of mountain lion/human interactions has increased recently.
While every situation is different, CPW says that if you do encounter a mountain lion in the wild, to always remain calm, back away slowly, and try to make yourself appear larger while making loud noises. If the animal tries to attack, CPW suggests throwing objects like branches or stones at it, and fighting back as best you can.
Mountain lions are most active during the hours of dawn and dusk. If you have an encounter with a lion or an attack occurs, immediately contact CPW, Colorado State Patrol or the local sheriff's office.