This famous 2.5 miles loop allows for an easy-moderate hike with splendid views. Perfect for visitors who haven't yet acclimated to the altitude, young children, and those who just aren't particularly fond of long hikes but want to get out and enjoy the great Boulder outdoors. The trailhead can be accessed through Realization Point which is located about 3 miles up Flagstaff Road. Parking is available. On your hike, expect to see sweeping views of the Boulder foothills and valley. You can also venture to the Continental Divide Lookout where you'll enjoy views of the CD in all it's splendor.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: The Flagstaff Mountain hike is to easy-moderate and has something for everyone.
Hope's expert tip: Best accessed in the spring, summer, and early fall months since the road can be a bear to drive in the winter.
13.4 miles of trail connecting Eldorado Canyon to Chautauqua park offers access to multiple trailheads and a variety of terrain. Start out at the Chautauqua Trailhead and end up at the South Boulder Peak trailhead. If you don't want to double your efforts and hike all the way back from whence you game, it is advised to have a friend leave a vehicle at the SB trailhead or pick you up to return to you vehicle in town. At 3,250ft of elevation gain over several miles, this is a moderate-strenuous hike that gains more gradually than, say, Bear Peak or Sanitas. However, endurance is key.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: The Mesa trail, with its elevation gain and beautiful scenery provides a challenge for avid hikers.
Hope's expert tip: Early spring and late summer provide the perfect weather for this hike.
Red Rocks trail can be accessed from the Centennial Trailhead in North Boulder and sits just across Mapleton from the Mt. Sanitas trailhead. For those who aren't up for significant elevation gain but could use a brisk hike with great views and some iconic rocks. this is the hike for you. Short, sweet, and easily accessed from the trailhead parking lot, this hike is perfect for visitors who are still acclimating to the altitude, children, and folks who haven't done much cardio recently. Known for the giant monolithic red sandstone rocks that tower over the trail, this is a perfect place to stop for a picnic, scenic view of Boulder and, if you're daring, scramble and climb the Class 4 ( an unroped fall would not necessarily kill you but it would probably hurt real good) rocks for awesome views of the foothills, Mt. Sanitas, and Green Mountain.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Red Rocks Trail is an easy hike, perfect for children.
Hope's expert tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy the view of Boulder Valley.
With more than 1,000 acres of land, this park is a favorite site for hiking and horseback riding on 10 beautiful miles of trails with varying degrees of difficulty. The park's 850-foot sandstone canyon wall is popular with world-class rock climbers. Fish for rainbow trout in the park's streams or enjoy a relaxing lunch at the picnic area along the creek at the bottom of the canyon. The Visitor's Center includes exhibits and displays about the geological formations in the canyon and the history of the park, not to mention the trails give hikers a breathtaking view of the canyon as they switchback up rocky ridges.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Bear Peak offers a rigorous hike with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains.
Hope's expert tip: Hikers and rock-climbers: Come during the week to avoid the crowds and get on some of the best trails and routes.
This 5 ( and come change) miles hike starts at an elevation of 5,856ft and tops out at 8,144ft making for a whopping 2, 288ft of elevation gain over about 21/2 miles. Not for the faint of heart ( but certainly no 14er either) Green Mountain offers hiking enthusiasts a great workout, climbs through lush greenery, and an unrivaled view of Boulder Valley, Indiana Peak Wilderness, and Rocky Mountain National Park to the west. Gregory Canyon Trailhead is your starting point for this out-and-back experience. Though you'll avoid scree ( medium to large sized boulders that must be scrambled across), the trail does shoot up in a few places, so be sure to wear supportive hiking boots with excellent grip.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Beautiful views and a rolling but slightly challenging trek make Green Mountain a Boulder favorite.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to take your micro-spikes in the winter!
This meadow-like foothills park is ideal for a lazy afternoon with a book, a family picnic, bird watching, or a vigorous hike on numerous trails that will suit any skill level. The hiking trails take you into the Flatirons and the Bluebell Shelter or the top of Flagstaff Mountain. A century old community center occupies the middle of the park. Numerous lectures and musical performances are scheduled, including the Colorado Music Festival, which is held each summer. The Royal-Arch and Green Mountain hikes are not-to-be-missed but should only be attempted if you're in good shape, have plenty of water, and have had a few days to acclimate to Boulder's altitude.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Chautauqua Park offers access to a variety of trails that cater to every skill level.
Hope's expert tip: Be sure to tackle the strenuous Royal-Arch hike which provides a spectacular view well worth the climb.
This 3.1 mile moderate to strenuous trail will lead you to one of the most breathtakingly beautiful summits overlooking all of Boulder Valley. Sanitas, which is Latin for health, wellbeing, and clarity of mind, is the perfect day hike whether you're wanting to work out, relax, or just be with nature. For a strenuous workout, take the trail at a fast pace and power to the top. For a more laid back approach, the Sanitas Valley Trail ambles gently along until it shoots up to the summit at the end of the hike. This mountain has several false summits, so be sure to pack a good lunch, plenty of water, and keep truckin' up the trail. Your effort will be worth the view.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Mt. Sanitas offers an epic workout with views as your reward.
Hope's expert tip: Sanitas has several false summits, so be sure to pack a good lunch, plenty of water, and keep truckin' up the trail. Your effort will be worth the view.
The highlight of the 415-square mile park is the Trail Ridge Road. Travel 50 spectacular miles over Trail Ridge Road, the nation's longest continuous road at such a high altitude, and experience incomparable changes in climate, vegetation, and eco-zones. Witness panoramic views of mountain ranges and peaks and close-ups of deer and elk grazing, bighorn sheep, birds, and other indigenous critters. If you're camping, stop off at Moraine campground that boasts a crystal clear view of the Rockies from almost any site, bathrooms, and easy access to hiking. The Cub Lake trail is moderate and perfect for travelers who have yet to acclimate to the high altitude. Pack a camera and get ready to take some amazing shots of pristine creeks, mountain lakes, and wildlife including majestic elk.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Rocky Mountain National provides some of the most rugged and beautiful trails in our nation.
Hope's expert tip: Visit the park during a weekday to avoid crowds.
Though Bear Peak can be accessed from several different points, the Mesa Trail is one of the best access points and provides you with a grueling 12.7 miles of switchbacks, scenic canyons and, at the top, views of the Rocky Mountains and Indiana Peaks wilderness. With a total elevation gain 3,075t and a max elevation of 8,461ft, this mountain is not for the unfit or faint of heart. Cardio-vascular health is a must, along with strong legs and a willingness to push forward. Be sure to bring plenty of water and proper footwear. Remember: The rewards of the hike are well-worth your efforts.
Recommended for Hiking Trails because: Bear Peak offers spectacular views and a workout that will challenge the most avid of hikers.
Hope's expert tip: Physical fitness is a must for this particular hike.