Battlbox
Navigating Colorado Open Carry Law for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Foundation of Open Carry in Colorado
- The Patchwork of Local Restrictions
- Prohibited Locations and "Sensitive Places"
- Carrying in the Colorado Backcountry
- Gear Considerations for Open Carry
- Interacting with Law Enforcement and the Public
- Preparedness Beyond the Firearm
- Legal Realities and Self-Defense
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Standing on a ridge in the San Juan Mountains, you are miles from the nearest trailhead and even further from reliable cell service. For many hikers, hunters, and backcountry explorers in the Centennial State, carrying a firearm is a practical component of a self-reliance strategy. However, the legal landscape is often more rugged than the terrain. Understanding the colorado open carry law is essential for anyone who spends time in the Colorado wilderness or travels through its diverse municipalities. At BattlBox, we prioritize helping you stay prepared with both the right gear and the right knowledge. This guide covers the complexities of open carry, local restrictions, and practical gear considerations for the modern outdoorsman. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to remain compliant while exercising your rights. If you want to build a broader outdoor kit, you can subscribe to BattlBox for expert-curated gear delivered monthly.
Quick Answer: Open carry is generally legal in Colorado for adults 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm, without a permit. However, local governments have the authority to ban open carry, and it is strictly prohibited in Denver and various other specific municipalities and "sensitive" locations.
The Foundation of Open Carry in Colorado
In Colorado, the tradition of open carry is rooted in both state constitutional protections and long-standing statutory norms. Unlike concealed carry, which requires a permit issued by a county sheriff, open carry does not require a license at the state level. If you are 21 years of age or older and are not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm, you can legally carry a handgun in plain view in many parts of the state.
It is important to define what "open carry" means in a legal context. Open carry refers to wearing a firearm in a manner that is clearly visible to an ordinary observer. This usually involves an Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster. If any part of the weapon is intentionally hidden by clothing, it may be legally classified as concealed carry, which requires a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). For a related explanation of the visibility standard, read what is considered open carry in Colorado.
Age and Eligibility Requirements
To legally open carry in Colorado, you must meet several criteria. First, you must be at least 21 years old. While federal law allows for the possession of long guns at 18, Colorado’s specific framework for carrying handguns in public centers on the 21-plus age bracket. Additionally, you must be a "law-abiding citizen," meaning you cannot have felony convictions, certain domestic violence convictions, or be subject to a protection order that prohibits firearm possession.
The "Plain View" Standard
The "plain view" standard is a critical part of the colorado open carry law. If you are hiking with a backpack, ensure your straps or hip belt do not inadvertently cover your holster. If the firearm becomes obscured, you could be cited for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. For those who frequently transition between the trail and their vehicle, understanding how the law views "viewability" is the first step in staying out of legal trouble.
The Patchwork of Local Restrictions
While Colorado is generally an open-carry-friendly state, it is not a "preemption" state in the way it used to be. For years, state law prevented local cities from passing gun laws that were stricter than state laws. This changed with the passage of Senate Bill 21-256. Now, local governments—including cities, towns, and counties—can enact their own restrictions on where and how firearms are carried. A deeper overview of jurisdictional rules is available in where you can open carry in Colorado.
The Denver Exception
Denver has long been the primary exception to Colorado’s open carry norms. The City and County of Denver has a complete ban on the open carry of firearms. If you are driving through Denver to reach the mountains, your firearm must be stored according to state law (often interpreted as inside the vehicle, but not on your person if you don't have a CHP). You cannot walk down a Denver sidewalk with a holstered firearm in plain view.
Other Municipal Bans
Since the law changed to allow local control, several other areas have followed Denver’s lead. Municipalities like Boulder, Louisville, Edgewater, and Lafayette have implemented various restrictions on open carry in public places. This creates a "patchwork" of laws that can be confusing for someone traveling across the state.
Key Takeaway: Never assume that open carry is legal just because you have crossed a county line; always verify the specific ordinances of the municipality you are entering.
Step-by-Step: How to Verify Local Laws
If you are planning a trip through multiple Colorado jurisdictions, follow these steps to ensure compliance:
Step 1: Identify your route. / Map out the specific towns and counties you will be traveling through or stopping in for fuel and supplies.
Step 2: Check municipal codes. / Search the official city or county website for terms like "firearms," "open carry," or "weapons" to find current ordinances.
Step 3: Look for signage. / In Colorado, private property owners and local governments must often post signs if they prohibit firearms on their premises.
Step 4: Contact local law enforcement. / If the online code is unclear, a quick call to the local sheriff's office or police department can provide clarity on how they enforce local carry rules.
Prohibited Locations and "Sensitive Places"
Even in areas where open carry is generally permitted, there are specific locations where firearms are strictly forbidden. These are often referred to as "sensitive places." Navigating these areas is a critical skill for anyone practicing colorado open carry law compliance. For broader preparedness planning, explore BattlBox’s emergency preparedness collection.
Government and Public Buildings
You cannot carry a firearm into a courthouse, a federal building, or a post office. Most state and local government buildings in Colorado also prohibit firearms. Many of these locations use metal detectors and security personnel to enforce these rules. If you are visiting a ranger station or a government-run visitor center in a park, check the door for "No Firearms" signage.
Schools and Universities
Carrying a firearm on the property of any public or private elementary, middle, or high school is a felony in Colorado, with very limited exceptions (such as for security personnel). While some states allow permit holders to carry on college campuses, Colorado laws have become increasingly restrictive regarding firearms on higher education property.
Private Property
A private business owner has the right to prohibit firearms on their property. This includes grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants. If a business has a "No Firearms" sign posted, you must respect it. If a business owner asks you to leave because you are carrying a firearm, you must do so immediately. Failure to comply can lead to a charge of second-degree criminal trespass.
Myth: "No Firearms" signs don't have the force of law in Colorado.
Fact: While the sign itself might not carry a specific criminal penalty in all contexts, ignoring the wishes of a property owner can lead to immediate trespassing charges if you refuse to leave.
Carrying in the Colorado Backcountry
For the BattlBox community, the primary interest in the colorado open carry law often revolves around outdoor recreation. Whether you are concerned about predatory wildlife or human threats in remote areas, carrying a sidearm is a common practice. A well-rounded loadout can include EDC gear for everyday carry alongside firearm-supporting equipment.
National Forests and BLM Land
On Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and in National Forests (like Roosevelt or White River National Forest), state law generally governs. Since open carry is legal in Colorado at the state level, it is generally legal in these vast wilderness areas. However, you must still follow rules regarding discharging a firearm (e.g., no shooting across roads or near campsites).
National Parks vs. State Parks
In National Parks (like Rocky Mountain National Park), federal law states that the park must follow the carry laws of the state in which it is located. Because open carry is legal in Colorado, it is allowed in the park—unless you enter a federal facility (like a visitor center or park headquarters) where firearms are banned.
Colorado State Parks have their own set of regulations. Currently, you can carry a firearm in a state park, but it must be handled responsibly. Always check for specific "Special Regulations" at the park entrance, as these can change based on seasonal needs or specific park management decisions.
Gear Considerations for Open Carry
If you choose to carry openly, your gear selection becomes more than just a matter of comfort; it becomes a matter of safety and legal compliance. Carrying a firearm in the outdoors puts different stresses on your gear than urban carry does. When you are ready to upgrade the rest of your loadout, get expert-curated gear delivered monthly.
Holster Selection and Retention
When hiking or moving through brush, a standard "friction-fit" holster might not be enough. You need retention. Retention levels are categorized to describe how many steps are required to draw the weapon.
- Level 1 Retention: Uses friction or a simple strap.
- Level 2 Retention: Usually involves a thumb break or a button that must be pressed to release the firearm.
- Level 3 Retention: Includes multiple locking mechanisms, often used by law enforcement.
For the backcountry, a Level 2 holster is often the sweet spot. It prevents the firearm from falling out if you slip on a scree slope or have to scramble over a fallen log, but still allows for a relatively quick draw if needed.
Holster Position and Accessibility
Common carry positions include:
- Strong Side Hip: The most common OWB position. It is easy to access but can interfere with a backpack's hip belt.
- Chest Rig: Very popular for hikers and hunters. It keeps the firearm centered on the chest, clear of pack straps, and easily accessible even while sitting.
- Drop-Leg Holster: Moves the firearm down the thigh. This clears the hip belt of a heavy pack but can feel cumbersome over long distances.
The Role of EDC Accessories
Open carry is just one part of your Everyday Carry (EDC) setup. When you carry a firearm, you should also carry supporting gear. This includes a high-quality tactical flashlight for low-light identification and a robust belt designed to support the weight of a firearm. We often include these types of durable, field-tested items in our missions to ensure our subscribers are fully equipped.
| Feature | Open Carry | Concealed Carry |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required? | No (in most of CO) | Yes (CHP required) |
| Ease of Access | Faster draw speed | Slower (clearing garments) |
| Public Presence | Highly visible | Discrete |
| Training Required? | None legally required | State-mandated class |
| Local Restrictions | Frequent (e.g., Denver) | Fewer local restrictions |
Interacting with Law Enforcement and the Public
Open carry makes you a representative of the firearms community. How you carry yourself is just as important as how you carry your weapon. In Colorado, seeing a firearm in the backcountry is common, but in more suburban or high-traffic trailheads, it may draw attention.
Practical Tips for Professional Carry
- Maintain a "Clean" Look: Use a high-quality holster, not a cheap nylon sleeve. A professional appearance reduces the "threat perception" from others.
- Know Your Rights, But Be Polite: If a law enforcement officer speaks to you, be calm and transparent. You are not required to hide your firearm, but you should avoid any movements that could be interpreted as reaching for it.
- Avoid Brandishing: There is a fine legal line between "carrying" and "brandishing." Brandishing involves displaying a weapon in a threatening manner. Under colorado open carry law, your firearm should remain in its holster unless there is an immediate, lawful need to use it.
Dealing with the General Public
You will encounter people on the trail who are uncomfortable with firearms. You are under no legal obligation to strike up a conversation or justify your carry, but being a courteous hiker goes a long way. If someone asks why you are carrying, a simple, non-confrontational answer like "It's part of my safety gear for the backcountry" is usually sufficient.
Bottom line: Open carry in Colorado requires a high degree of situational awareness and a commitment to being a responsible, law-abiding citizen.
Preparedness Beyond the Firearm
At BattlBox, we believe that a firearm is only one tool in a much larger survival and preparedness kit. Carrying a sidearm under the colorado open carry law should be complemented by other essential skills and gear. BattlBox’s medical and safety collection is a natural place to round out that preparation.
Medical Gear (IFAK)
If you carry a tool that can punch holes, you should carry a tool that can plug them. An Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) containing a tourniquet, hemostatic gauze, and pressure bandages is a non-negotiable for anyone carrying a firearm. Accidents happen, and in the Colorado wilderness, help could be hours or days away. A My Medic MyFAK Standard can serve as a compact first-aid foundation.
Communication and Navigation
Don't let the security of a firearm lead to a false sense of safety. Most "survival" situations in Colorado involve getting lost, dehydration, or weather-related issues. Always carry a map, a compass, and a satellite communication device if you are heading into the deep woods.
Legal Realities and Self-Defense
Understanding the law for carrying a firearm is different from understanding the law for using one. Colorado follows a "Make My Day" law for dwellings, but in public and in the backcountry, the standard for self-defense is generally based on a reasonable fear of imminent "great bodily harm" or death.
Before you decide to open carry, you should familiarize yourself with Colorado's statutes on the use of deadly force. Owning the gear is just the beginning; knowing when and how to use it—and more importantly, when not to use it—is the mark of a true professional. For another overview of the topic, read can you open carry a gun in Colorado.
Training and Practice
A firearm is a liability if you don't know how to use it. We recommend taking a basic handgun safety course at a minimum, followed by more advanced tactical or outdoor-specific shooting clinics. Practice drawing from your specific holster while wearing your hiking pack. The muscle memory you build during practice is what will take over during a high-stress encounter with a mountain lion or an aggressive intruder.
Note: Always practice with an unloaded firearm or a "blue gun" (weighted training replica) when testing your gear at home to ensure total safety during the fitting process.
Conclusion
Navigating the colorado open carry law is a balance of exercising your rights and respecting the local regulations that have become increasingly common. While the state generally allows for the open carry of firearms for those 21 and older, the "patchwork" of local bans in places like Denver and Boulder requires you to stay informed and vigilant. Whether you are trekking through a National Forest or passing through a small mountain town, your focus should always be on safety, retention, and responsible representation of the outdoor community.
At BattlBox, we are committed to providing the expert-curated gear and knowledge you need to stay prepared for any situation. From robust holsters and EDC lights to comprehensive medical kits, we help you build the kit you need for the life you lead.
Key Takeaway: Preparation is more than gear; it is the marriage of the right tools with the right information. Stay legal, stay safe, and stay prepared.
Next Step: Explore our latest collections of EDC gear and emergency preparedness gear to round out your backcountry kit, or choose your BattlBox subscription to have expert-selected gear delivered to your door every month.
FAQ
Is open carry legal in Denver, Colorado?
No, open carry is strictly prohibited in the City and County of Denver. This ban includes all public areas, and even if you have a concealed carry permit, you cannot carry a firearm openly within Denver city limits. For more context, read where open carry is restricted in Colorado.
Do I need a permit to open carry a handgun in Colorado?
No, you do not need a permit to open carry in Colorado, provided you are at least 21 years old and are legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, a permit is required if you wish to carry the firearm in a concealed manner. You can also review Colorado open carry definitions and responsibilities.
Can I open carry while hiking in Colorado?
Yes, open carry is generally legal while hiking on BLM land, in National Forests, and in National Parks within Colorado. However, you must be aware of local municipal bans if your trail passes through cities like Boulder or Denver, and you must always respect "No Firearms" signs on private property. For a broader gear setup, consider the fire starters collection and a Dark Energy Plasma Lighter for general outdoor preparedness.
Can a local city in Colorado ban open carry?
Yes, since the passage of Senate Bill 21-256 in 2021, local governments in Colorado have the authority to enact their own firearms regulations, including bans on open carry. This has created a patchwork of laws across the state, making it vital to check local ordinances before traveling. A related guide covers Colorado open carry rules and restrictions.
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