Colorado Open Carry Law for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Basics of Colorado Open Carry Law
3. The Shift in Local Preemption
4. Carrying Firearms in Vehicles
5. Open Carry on Public Lands
6. Where Open Carry Is Strictly Prohibited
7. Best Practices for Open Carry in the Field
8. Interacting with Law Enforcement
9. The Role of Training
10. Gear for the Colorado Woods
11. Legal Resources and Staying Updated
12. Conclusion
13. FAQ

Introduction

You are miles from the nearest paved road, the sun is dipping below the ridgeline, and you hear a heavy snap in the brush. In the Colorado backcountry, self-reliance is not just a mindset; it is a necessity for anyone who spends time off the grid. While we focus on providing the best survival and adventure gear at BattlBox, we also know that carrying a sidearm for protection requires a deep understanding of the legal landscape. If you’re ready to subscribe to BattlBox and build a smarter kit, this article breaks down the Colorado open carry law to help you stay compliant while exploring the Centennial State. We will cover where you can legally carry, the impact of local ordinances, and the best practices for carrying in the field. Knowing these rules ensures your focus remains on the trail, not on legal complications.

Quick Answer: Colorado is generally an open carry state, meaning adults 18 and older can carry a firearm in plain view without a permit. However, local jurisdictions like Denver and certain state and federal buildings prohibit open carry entirely.

The Basics of Colorado Open Carry Law

Colorado is traditionally considered a "permissive" open carry state. This means that there is no state-level statute that explicitly bans the open carry of firearms. If you are a law-abiding adult who can legally possess a firearm, you can generally carry it in a holster that is visible to the public. Unlike concealed carry, which requires a Permit to Carry a Concealed Weapon (CCW), open carry does not require a license at the state level.

The legal age to open carry in Colorado is 18. While federal law requires you to be 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer, Colorado law allows individuals 18 and older to possess a handgun. This is particularly relevant for young hikers or hunters who are out in the backcountry and want to maintain a means of self-defense against predators.

Understanding the definition of "open carry" is the first step in staying legal. For a firearm to be considered "openly carried," it must be clearly visible to an ordinary observer. If a jacket, shirt, or bag even partially obscures the firearm, it could be legally classified as concealed. In Colorado, carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense.

Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry

The distinction between these two methods of carry is vital for any outdoorsman. Open carry is the act of wearing a firearm in plain sight, usually in an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster. Concealed carry involves hiding the firearm from public view, such as in an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster or a dedicated pocket.

• Open Carry: No permit required (mostly), firearm must be visible, age 18+.
• Concealed Carry: Requires a CCW permit, firearm is hidden, age 21+.

Key Takeaway: If you choose to open carry, ensure the entire holster and firearm are clearly visible to avoid being charged with carrying a concealed weapon without a permit.

The Shift in Local Preemption

For many years, Colorado had a "preemption" law that prevented local cities from making their own gun laws. This meant that the rules were the same in Colorado Springs as they were in a remote mountain town. However, in 2021, the state legislature passed Senate Bill 21-256. This bill fundamentally changed the Colorado open carry law by allowing local governments to pass ordinances that are more restrictive than state law.

This change means that the legality of open carry can change as you cross city or county lines. As an outdoor enthusiast traveling from the Denver metro area into the mountains, you must be aware of the specific rules for every jurisdiction you pass through. What is legal at your campsite might be illegal at the gas station where you stop for ice and fuel.

The Denver Exception

Denver has long been the primary exception to Colorado's open carry culture. Even before the 2021 law change, the City and County of Denver had a long-standing ban on the open carry of firearms. This ban has been upheld by the courts. If you are within the limits of Denver, your firearm must be either concealed (with a valid permit) or properly cased and unloaded in your vehicle.

Other Local Restrictions

Since the repeal of state preemption, several other municipalities have moved to restrict or ban open carry. These include places like Boulder, Louisville, and Edgewater. These cities often cite public safety concerns in high-traffic areas. Before you head out on a trip, it is wise to check the municipal codes of the towns along your route.

Bottom line: Local governments in Colorado now have the power to ban open carry, making it essential to research your specific travel destination beforehand.

Carrying Firearms in Vehicles

Colorado law treats your vehicle as an extension of your home. This is a critical point for campers and overlanders. You are generally allowed to carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle for self-defense while traveling. This applies whether you have a CCW permit or not.

The "open carry" rules change slightly once you are inside a car. In a vehicle, a handgun does not have to be in plain sight. You can keep it in the glove box, a center console, or under the seat. However, this rule specifically applies to handguns.

Rifles and shotguns are treated differently in vehicles. Under Colorado hunting and wildlife laws, it is illegal to have a loaded rifle or shotgun in a vehicle. A long gun is considered loaded if there is a round in the chamber. This rule is designed to prevent poaching and accidental discharges during transport. If you are heading to the woods with a tactical rifle or a bird gun, keep the chamber empty until you have exited the vehicle.

Myth: You must keep your handgun on the dashboard so it is visible to police. Fact: In Colorado, you can legally keep a loaded handgun concealed anywhere in your vehicle for self-defense.

Open Carry on Public Lands

For most readers, the primary interest in Colorado open carry law relates to public lands. Colorado is home to millions of acres of National Forest, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, and State Parks. The rules for carrying in these areas can vary depending on which agency manages the land.

National Forests and BLM Land

Open carry is generally permitted in National Forests and on BLM land in Colorado. These federal agencies typically follow the laws of the state in which the land is located. Since Colorado allows open carry, you are free to carry your sidearm while hiking or camping in these areas.

However, there are specific spots within these lands where carry is prohibited. These include:

• Federal buildings: Any building staffed by federal employees, such as ranger stations or visitor centers, is a "gun-free zone."
• Developed recreation sites: Some specific campgrounds or trailheads may have local orders prohibiting discharge of firearms, though carry is often still legal.

If you are building out your trail loadout, the Emergency / Disaster Preparedness collection is a good place to start.

National Parks

In 2010, federal law was changed to allow the possession of firearms in National Parks. This means if you are visiting Rocky Mountain National Park or Black Canyon of the Gunnison, you can legally open carry a sidearm if you are legally allowed to do so under Colorado law.

It is important to remember that while you can carry the firearm, you cannot discharge it. Target shooting and hunting are strictly prohibited in National Parks. Furthermore, the ban on firearms inside federal buildings (visitor centers, administrative offices) still applies within the park boundaries.

State Parks and Wildlife Areas

Colorado State Parks and State Wildlife Areas (SWAs) generally allow for the open carry of firearms. However, these areas often have specific regulations regarding "possession" vs. "use." For example, some SWAs require you to have a valid hunting or fishing license to even be on the property during certain seasons. Always check the specific Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) regulations for the unit you are visiting.

Where Open Carry Is Strictly Prohibited

Even in a state as firearm-friendly as Colorado, there are several "off-limits" locations. Violating these restrictions can lead to felony charges in some cases.

1. Schools and Universities: It is illegal to carry a firearm on the grounds of any public or private elementary, middle, or high school. This also applies to the campuses of public universities.
2. Government Buildings: Most municipal, state, and federal buildings have security checkpoints and prohibit firearms.
3. Private Property with Signage: In Colorado, private property owners have the right to prohibit firearms on their premises. If a business has a "No Guns" sign posted, you must respect it.
4. Polling Places: Carrying a firearm within 100 feet of a polling location or a ballot drop box is prohibited during an election.

Warning: Carrying a firearm into a prohibited location like a school or a federal building is often a felony-level offense. Always scan for signage when entering a building.

Best Practices for Open Carry in the Field

If you decide to open carry while exploring the Colorado backcountry, you have a responsibility to do so safely and professionally. Open carry often draws more attention than concealed carry, and your behavior reflects on the entire community of outdoorsmen.

Holster Selection and Retention

The most important piece of gear for open carry is a high-quality retention holster. When you are hiking, climbing over deadfall, or traversing steep terrain, you cannot risk your firearm falling out of its holster. We often see Basic or Advanced tiers of gear delivery include items that help secure your kit, and your holster should be no different.

Look for a holster with at least Level II retention. This usually involves a thumb break or a finger-actuated lever that locks the firearm in place. This prevents the gun from being knocked loose by a backpack strap or snagged on a branch. It also provides a layer of security against someone trying to take the firearm from you in a crowded area.

Muzzle Discipline and Safety

Just because a firearm is in a holster doesn't mean safety rules stop applying. Ensure your holster completely covers the trigger guard. This is the only way to prevent an accidental discharge if a piece of clothing or a stray twig gets inside the holster.

If your kit needs better lighting for late starts or low-visibility travel, the Flashlights collection is worth a look.

Interaction with the Public

When you open carry, you are an ambassador for the 2nd Amendment. In popular hiking areas like those near Boulder or Golden, many people may be uncomfortable seeing a firearm. While you are legally within your rights, being polite and maintaining a non-threatening posture goes a long way. If someone asks why you are carrying, a simple answer like "for protection against wildlife" is usually sufficient.

Interacting with Law Enforcement

If you are stopped by law enforcement while open carrying, stay calm and keep your hands visible. In Colorado, you do not have a legal "duty to inform" an officer that you are carrying a firearm unless they ask. However, it is often better for the safety of everyone involved to be transparent.

Step-by-Step: Interacting with LEO while carrying

• Step 1: Keep your hands on the steering wheel (if in a car) or at your sides (if on foot).
• Step 2: State clearly, "Officer, for your safety and mine, I want to inform you that I am openly carrying a firearm in a holster on my right hip."
• Step 3: Wait for the officer's instructions. Do not reach for your identification or the firearm until told to do so.
• Step 4: Follow all instructions calmly. The officer may temporarily take possession of the firearm for the duration of the stop.

If you want a deeper look at everyday readiness, What to Have on Hand for Emergency Preparedness is a strong companion read.

The Role of Training

The gear you carry is only as good as the training you put behind it. At BattlBox, we believe that proficiency is the cornerstone of survival. Owning a sidearm and carrying it under the Colorado open carry law is the beginning, not the end, of the process.

You should practice drawing from your holster regularly. If you are wearing a heavy winter coat or a backpack with a waist belt, your draw stroke will be significantly different than if you are at the range in a t-shirt. Practice clearing your gear and getting a solid grip on the firearm in a safe, controlled environment.

Backcountry Ballistics

If you are carrying for wildlife protection, understand the limitations of your caliber. A subcompact 9mm might be great for EDC (Everyday Carry) in a city, but it may be insufficient for a mountain lion or a black bear. Many Colorado hikers choose calibers like 10mm or .357 Magnum for the trail. Regardless of the caliber, shot placement and the ability to fire accurately under stress are what matter most.

Gear for the Colorado Woods

When preparing for a trip into the Colorado wilderness, your firearm is just one part of your kit. You need to balance the weight of your sidearm with other essentials like water purification, emergency medical supplies, and fire starters. We focus on curating these items to ensure you have a balanced loadout for any mission.

Consider how your sidearm integrates with your pack. Many modern hiking packs have large waist belts that sit exactly where a holster would go. To solve this, some outdoorsmen use chest holsters. A chest holster keeps the firearm accessible and visible (maintaining the "open" status) while staying clear of your pack straps. It also keeps the gun high and dry during creek crossings.

Essential Trail Gear Checklist

• Retention Holster: Level II or higher.
• Sturdy Gun Belt: To support the weight of the firearm and prevent sagging.
• Medical Kit: Including a tourniquet (if you carry a gun, you should carry a medical kit).
• Reliable Flashlight: Vital for identifying targets in low light.
• Ammunition: High-quality defensive rounds, not just target FMJs.

A compact light like the Powertac SOL LED Rechargeable Keychain Light fits neatly into an EDC setup.

Bottom line: Your carry system must be comfortable enough to wear for ten miles of hiking, or you will likely leave it in the truck when you need it most.

Legal Resources and Staying Updated

Law is not static, and Colorado's gun laws have been changing rapidly. It is your responsibility as a gun owner to stay informed. Relying on "what a guy at the gun store said" is a recipe for legal trouble.

Consult official sources for the most accurate information.

• Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI): For state-wide rules and reciprocity info.
• Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW): For rules regarding firearms in parks and hunting units.
• Local Sheriff's Offices: Often the best source for current local ordinances in the counties you plan to visit.

A good place to round out your preparedness is the Medical and Safety collection.

Note: Alcohol and firearms never mix. In Colorado, it is illegal to possess a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. This applies even if you are just sitting around a campfire on private property.

Conclusion

Understanding the Colorado open carry law is a vital part of being a prepared outdoorsman. While the state remains relatively permissive, the rise of local ordinances means you must be more vigilant than ever. By choosing the right retention holster, staying aware of city boundaries, and maintaining your training, you can enjoy the Colorado wilderness with the peace of mind that you are protected and legal. At BattlBox, we are committed to helping you navigate these challenges by providing the gear and knowledge you need to be self-reliant. Whether you are building your first backcountry kit or you are a seasoned survivalist, staying informed is the best way to ensure your next adventure is a safe one. Adventure. Delivered. If you’re ready to keep building, choose your BattlBox subscription.

Key Takeaway: Proper gear selection and a thorough understanding of local variations in Colorado law are the keys to a successful and legal open carry experience in the backcountry.

FAQ

Is it legal to open carry a handgun in Colorado without a permit?

Yes, in most of the state, adults 18 and older can openly carry a handgun without a permit. However, local jurisdictions like Denver have passed laws that ban open carry entirely, and recent state law changes allow more cities to do the same.

Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in Colorado?

You can legally keep a loaded handgun in your vehicle for self-defense in Colorado, and it does not need to be visible. However, rifles and shotguns must have an empty chamber while being transported in a vehicle to comply with wildlife and safety laws.

Are there places where open carry is always banned in Colorado?

Yes, open carry is prohibited in federal buildings, schools (K-12 and college campuses), many government buildings, and private properties that have "No Guns" signs posted. Additionally, open carry is banned within the City and County of Denver.

Does Colorado open carry law apply to National Parks?

Yes, you can legally open carry in National Parks located within Colorado, such as Rocky Mountain National Park, provided you are legally allowed to possess the firearm under state law. However, you are still prohibited from carrying inside federal buildings like visitor centers, and you cannot discharge the firearm within the park.