5 tips for commuting to campus
Whether you live two or 20 miles from campus, here are some tips to help you navigate winter weather and the spring semester.
Explore transportation options
All enrolled CU students can use their Buff OneCard to access Learn more about or near you. Download the Transit app for routes and real-time transit information to stay informed if there are delays or cancellations due to weather.
With many sunny and warm days during Colorado winters, commuting by bike can also be an option for getting around campus and Boulder. If you plan to use your bike on campus, register it at one of the bike stations. Registering your bike gives you free access to the campus bike stations, including bike maintenance assistance. Boulder's bike-sharing program, , offers electric assist bikes around town, including locations near many bus stops. As a student, you get a free BCycle membership through the Environmental Center—learn more about activating your membership.
Know about weather closures or delays
Our campus may experience delays or closures due to inclement weather. Students receive email notifications through the , and you can add your phone number in Buff Portal to by text message.
Navigating transportation issues as a commuting student can occasionally interfere with class schedules. If you're delayed, contact your professors as soon as you know you’ll be late or miss class. Explain your situation and ask about ways to make up for missed work.
Stay safe driving in snowy conditions
Road safety is crucial as winter approaches, especially in snowy and icy conditions. If you’re driving to campus, here are some tips to stay safe:
- Stay informed: Check weather and traffic reports before leaving and consider alternative routes if necessary. If you’re traveling on major highways or interstates, for updates on road closures and other changes.
- Slow down: Roads can be slippery, so give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. Reducing speed increases your control on icy patches.
- Keep your distance: Allow more space between your vehicle and others as braking distances increase on slick roads.
- Pack an emergency kit: Include items like blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables and non-perishable snacks in case of unexpected delays.
Check out campus dining options
With 16 on-campus dining locations, you have many options for meals or snacks between classes. Download the Nutrislice app or use the website to view menus and filter for allergens, dietary restrictions and preferences.
On-campus dining locations accept Campus Cash and credit or debit cards. Block Meal Plans are available with different numbers of meals per semester to all students living off campus and in Bear Creek or Graduate and Family Housing.
For more tips, review our complete guide to eating on campus.
Join the Beyond Campus Buffs community
Depending on your schedule, you may have downtime between classes or other commitments on campus. Beyond Campus Buffs offers monthly events and resources for undergraduate students living off campus.
The Commuter Lounge in the University Memorial Center (UMC) offers students who travel to campus access to free amenities, including:
- Free coffee
- Printing
- Refrigerator access
- Microwave access
- Lockers
- Lounge space
The lounge is also staffed by beyond campus advisors. Beyond campus advisors are students who have experience commuting to campus and are available to answer questions.
First-year students can access the lounge automatically. If you’re a returning undergraduate commuter, to gain access to the lounge and learn about events for commuter students. The lounge is available to undergraduate students only.
Want to learn more about student life and getting involved on campus? Download the CU Boulder Life app and follow @CUBoulderLife on , and