City Of Boulder Issues Tubing Warning

BOULDER, CO — Raging runoff from this year's heavy snowfall isn't going to stop Boulder's popular annual Tube to Work Day ... yet; however, the city is advising participants to be vigilant. Many people have been rescued from Colorado waterways this year and some have drowned.

Tube to Work Day is set for July 19 on Boulder Creek, at participants' own risk. The event will begin at Eben G. Fine Park at 8 a.m. There will be free breakfast and live music at Central Park, just after the Broadway underpass.

Waivers, helmets and closed-toe footwear are mandatory for the event. Life jackets and wetsuits are strongly recommended beneath business attire and costumes are encouraged, organizers said.

(Stay up-to-date on Boulder news with Boulder Patch! There are many ways for you to connect and stay in touch: Free Newsletters and Email Alerts | Facebook)

Tubing season runs from May to August, depending on flows in Boulder Creek. During peak runoff (usually May and June and sometimes into July), the water is colder and faster. Checking the creek flows ahead of time are highly recommended.

Creek flows are measured in cubic feet per second. The ideal range for tubing is 100-200 cfs. At 700 cfs and higher, conditions are considered deadly and the Boulder County Sheriff will close the creek to tubers.

Tubing has been temporarily banned from Clear Creek in Jefferson County. Two people were rescued from the creek in late June after falling off their tubes near Billy Drew Bridge.

Related:

Drowning In Colorado: It Doesn't Look Like You Think It Does

Boulder Man Dies In Arkansas River

Jeffco Sheriff, Golden Police Restrict Clear Creek Access