Hiking is a major recreational activity for Boulder residents. During the summer, vacationers can take advantage of the city’s many mountain parks and open trails. Although some of Boulder’s trails are closed due to the 2013 flood, visitors can still enjoy a great workout on numerous scenic paths in and around town. Here are five easy to moderate trails that are ideal for both visitors and locals:
Bobolink Trail
In East Boulder you’ll find Bobolink, one of the city’s mildest trails. Including its namesake the Bobolink bird, the trail is home to a variety of wildlife, such as various bird species, deer, hawks, and foxes. It is a comfortable hike for families with children and even offers partial wheelchair accessibility. The path begins near the intersection of Baseline and Cherryvale, winding alongside a portion of South Boulder Creek.
Chautauqua Park
Also located in Boulder is Chautauqua Park, which has several trails for hikers at various skill levels. The popular trailhead is situated at the foot of the iconic Flatirons, which are part of the Rocky Mountains.
Mesa Trail is a great introduction for those new to the foothills of Chautauqua. The path runs for about seven miles of various terrains, including a hilly forest and meadows, but most hikers enjoy trailing just parts of it.
Bald Mountain
If you are interested in completing a short hike while visiting Boulder, try the Pines to Peaks Loop on Bald Mountain; the two-mile trail is suitable for novice to intermediate hikers. Situated in the northwestern part of town, Bald Mountain offers picturesque views, especially at sunset.
Eldorado Canyon
Hikers who enjoy captivating scenery but want to try more demanding trails will love Eldorado Canyon. Just a twenty-minute drive from Downtown Boulder, the state park has a plethora of trails with stunning vistas. Fowler Trail is the easiest trek, but the moderate hike on Rattlesnake Gulch offers incredible views of the Continental Divide.
Mount Bierstadt
Intermediate hikers looking for a challenge can go for a day hike at one of Colorado’s famous 14ers (or mountains exceeding 14,000 feet). Mount Bierstadt, located in Clear Creek County about 70 miles southwest of Boulder, is regarded as the easiest 14er to hike. The summit of Guanella Pass is a great base to begin, where you can park and continue on foot for three miles until you reach the mountain’s peak.
Regardless of where you go hiking, newcomers to high elevations need to be cautious about altitude sickness. It is vital to stay hydrated and avoid over-exerting yourself when visiting Colorado, especially if it is for the first time. If you are cautious and prepared, you will better enjoy the hiking trails in Boulder and its surrounding areas this summer.