Blog

13 Beautiful Hikes Near Boulder


Boulder trailheads frequently gather for one simple mission; world-class hiking only a short distance from the city. There are many trail miles to track because there are many outstanding state parks encompassing natural wildernesses, including distinctive rock formations like the Flatirons. This list explores some breathtakingly beautiful landscapes in the region that make for the most memorable hikes close to Boulder and which you simply must try.

1. First and second Flatirons hike

Length: 2.6 miles

Difficulty: Medium

This trail leads you all around the park's vast meadows and along the Second Flatiron's lengthy ridge before crossing through the breach between the two breathtaking rock spikes. The First Flatiron's rear side is accessible by following the trail about, which you can climb up to a native alcove for glimpses of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains to the west. You also get a chance to see the second Flatiron with the pinkish sky.

2. Eldorado Canyon State Park trails

Length: 7 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Eldorado Canyon is a well-known destination because it hosts some of Colorado's catchiest climbs. Steep red rocks that are covered in neon-green lichen provide landscapes of the foothills. You can also see the Continental Divide on a calm day. Eldorado Canyon Trail has some amazing hiking paths and is a good place near Boulder, Colorado, to start your trek before branching out.

3. 4th of July trailhead: Arapaho Pass trail

Length: 4.1 miles 

Difficulty: Moderate

Not only is this one of the finest walks close to Boulder, but it is also one of the most incredible ones close to Denver. Seriously, it really is that amazing. At this destination, there are a variety of hikes to choose from. Park at the day access zone of the Fourth of July Campground whenever the roadway is operational (they do not service it during the winter).

By taking the Arapaho Pass Trail from the 4th of July Mine, you can get the best view of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Experienced hikers can use the Arapaho Glacier Trail to ascend South Arapaho Peak, one among Colorado's finest 13ers.

Mountaineers should try to ascend the Skywalker Couloir. This difficult snow shoot features snow that is steeper than 60 degrees.

4. Royal Arch hike in Chautauqua Park

Image courtesy of Beyond Boulder

Length: 3.5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Who thought this one magnificent arch could also be among the Flatirons? Hit the Chautauqua Trail, and then go towards the Royal Arch. The Royal Arch route offers something distinct from the other hikes in the Boulder area, and reaching the arch takes some work. Once you get to a rocky outcrop that levitates, find your way across a high, rocky terrain. The finest hike in the Boulder area for sunrise is, without a doubt, this one.

5. Bear Mountain summit peak

Length: 7.4 miles

Difficulty: Hard

This is perhaps one of Boulder, Colorado's most challenging hiking routes. You can explore Bear Peak in one of two ways. It is around 7.4 miles overall if you choose the out and back route. Alternately, you can hike the 8.4-mile loop trail to increase the level of difficulty. Be certain to reserve three to five hours for this adventure.

Before climbing up to the peak, carefully sketch out the route because it can be challenging. The simplest path departs from South Mesa Trailhead, but be ready to take a few detours along the way. This trip offers breathtaking views of many environments, including meadows, dense pine forests, bridge-covered waterways, and a steep ascent to the mountain.

6. Rocky Mountain National Park

Length: 8.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Although the scenery near Boulder is nothing to sneeze at, tourists from all over the world come further up to Rocky Mountain National Park to take in its breathtaking natural splendor. This national gem is about an hour away from the northern side of the city and has 355 kilometers of hiking trails.

There is plenty of selection here to appeal to every hiker in your team, from leisurely nature walks through diverse trails to arduous mountain ascents. After spending the day enjoying one of America's most beautiful and renowned natural attractions, there are wonderful spots to camp or book a lodge for the night, although the park is quite close to Boulder.

7. Boulder Falls

Length: 100 yards

Difficulty: Easy

This short, 30-second hike to Boulder Falls rewards you with spectacular scenery of the 70-foot waterfall. It is one of those Boulder hiking treks that are highly gratifying and require minimal effort to finish. The canyon's rock faces enclose the waterfall, and the enormous pine trees that surround it add to the scenic setting. You can also combine the Boulder Falls trek with Betasso Preserve for an extended adventure.

This is another of the family-friendly treks in the Boulder area. However, the location is not ideal for the seniors because it is rocky and frequently crowded.

8. Mesa trail: South Segment hike

Length: 8.4 miles

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This short, gentle hike is on the southern section of the Mesa Trail near Boulder. The walk begins by bridging South Boulder Creek and continues over meadow grasslands to reach the broad Mesa, from where you can see the entire demographic of Flatiron Mountains and Eldorado Canyon below. You can observe the distinctive ecology at this point where the foothills and prairie converge as the land gently rolls back and forth, plunging into canyon lines and then returning to ponderosa pine-covered slopes.

9. Green Mountain west trail

Length: 4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Among the most popular walks in Boulder, both in the summer and the winter, Green Mountain West is perhaps the most trekked one. Approximately 800 feet of elevation gain is clear, although the last stretch of the trail has a significant ascent.

This trailhead is reachable from Flagstaff Road. Along this hike, you can see gorgeous wildflowers and dense evergreen trees. Highlights of South Boulder Peak and the renowned fourteeners are also visible from Green Mountain Peak.

Follow the Green Bear Trail, which connects to Bear Canyon, to set up your hiking near Boulder. However, compared to the Green Mountain West Trail, this route offers a greater elevation variation. Therefore, before proceeding on, please consider how high you want to go.

10. Lost Lake hike

Image courtesy of USDA Forest Service

Length: 4 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

There are many wildflowers, rivers, meadows, and cascades along this trail. It is one of the more unusual routes in Boulder, Colorado, as you can see a sliding cascade as you make your way to the lovely Lost Lake. This trek in Boulder should take you two to three hours.

Families will enjoy this hike, but it is vital to remember that the route up to the reservoir is entirely steep. Once you get there, you see that gorgeous green trees encircle the lake with a lovely mountain backdrop.

The parking space is tiny and quickly clogs up, so avoid driving here. Rather, use the Boulder County Shuttle, which is accessible but operates for a short time during weekends.

11. Sanitas hike

Length: 3.1 and 2 Miles

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Leisurely is how most choose to describe this hike. That certainly applies to the hiking trail on the mountain's base. The ascent is more difficult.

The trails at the foot of Mt. Sanitas, at the heart of Boulder, could be the greatest spot in town to walk your dog because of their wide paths, stunning scenery, and water features for your pet. Whenever you want to exercise or see the city, follow the broad ridge path to the top.

12. Continental Divide Overlook

Length: 2.9-miles

Difficulty: Moderate 

One of the well-enjoyed hiking routes in Eldorado Canyon State Park is the hike from the Crags Hotel Ruins to the Continental Divide Overlook. This trek starts with a slight rise at Rattlesnake Gulch Trailhead and does not demand a lot of physical effort. It is important to move slowly and use hiking boots or even hiking sticks when appropriate because the path might turn slippery on the way down.

Given the abundance of cover it provides, this is one of the best paths in Boulder to hike on hot sunny days. You will encounter breathtaking vistas of the Continental Divide at the finish of the out-and-back trek. A great spot with seats is also conveniently accessible for a snack and hydration stop.

13. Sugarloaf Mountain trail

Length: 1.3 miles

Difficulty: Medium

The Sugarloaf Mountain Trail in Boulder is an enjoyable and quick trek. It climbs to Sugarloaf Mountain's summit, which provides beautiful scenery of the neighboring Indian Peaks. The trail passes through some verdant landscapes while offering expansive sights of the neighboring peaks in other places.

The sheer ascent up the mountain and the rough walkways make this trail one of the most strenuous hikes in Boulder, Colorado. To prevent slipping, always wear hiking boots and take your time ascending the trail. The Sugarloaf Mountain Trail is accessible all year round, providing views of the peaks clothed in lush vegetation in the summer and lovely snowy sceneries in the winter.

Take some time to explore some amazing properties when in town

If you happen to fall deeply in love with Boulder, the one way to ensure that you are always within reach of its legendary trails and magnificent landscapes is by buying a home in the region. Kevin Byrne of The Byrne Group and his team of real estate experts can offer expert guidance and ensure you get a house you will adore. Contact us today to get more details about Boulder real estate.



Work With Us

If you are a Buyer or Seller looking for a top real estate team, we would like to be your choice for your next real estate transaction.
Contact Us
Follow Us