Outdoor Recreation in Boulder, Colorado

Flagstaff Mountain is Boulder’s 4^th highest peak at 7,283 feet and its summit offers incredible views of the Continental Divide, the Boulder range, and the plains. It’s also a fantastic spot for wildlife watching. Deer, wild turkey, raptors, bears, bobcats, and even mountain lions are regularly spotted here. Rocky outcrops provide opportunities for bouldering and the summit area is replete with perfect picnicking posts.

So why is Flagstaff the least popular mountain for hikers to tackle from bottom to top? There are two main reasons: (1) It’s the only peak in Boulder that features a road to the summit. (2) The true summit is an unmarked lump of dirt and rocks. This apparently deters many hikers, but their loss is your gain. Flagstaff’s supposed shortcomings actually make it a very appealing summit hike for those willing to adjust their expectations.

Yes, there’s a road, and you’ll cross it 6 times on your way up. But when you’re on trail, you’ll see very few people until you reach the summit area. And while it’s difficult to escape the occasional sound of cars or chatty bikers, you’ll find beautiful pockets of solitude in between.

To make up for its unmarked summit, Flagstaff’s summit area offers multiple overlooks with vistas rivaling those on Boulder’s more popular peaks. In addition, the Flagstaff Trail provides multiple opportunities to connect with other parts of Boulder’s trail system.

The hike from street level to Flagstaff’s summit is not particularly popular with either locals or tourists, and that’s all the more reason for it to become popular with YOU. Read on for everything you need to know about this rewarding summit hike.

Please refer to OSMP.org for trail conditions and closures as well as dog regulations.
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Are you stuck in a hiker’s version of Groundhog Day, hitting up the same Boulder trails over and over and over again? If so, then it might be time to head to nearby Jefferson County and mix things up. Only 45 minutes from Boulder, Jefferson County Open Space is comprised of 54,000 acres of land and 230 miles of trails. When you’re itching to explore new terrain, JeffCo is the place to go.

Mount Galbraith Park, nestled between Golden Gate Canyon and Clear Creek Canyon, is one of Jefferson County’s many gems. It boasts 5 miles of “hiker-only” trails with moderate elevation gain on 945 acres of protected land. From these trails, enjoy sweeping views of North and South Table Mountains, Denver, and the Continental Divide. There’s also plenty to see right in the park, from the abundant wildlife to funky-looking trees and gravity-defying boulders.

If your hiking repertoire demands a change of scenery, Mount Galbraith Park is worth the trip. Read on for everything you need to know about exploring this Jefferson County Open Space property.
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Experienced Colorado hikers know this golden rule: It’s always better in winter. Colder? Yes. Tougher? Yes. Worth it? Oh yes. Winter is the “slow season” for fair weather hikers, which means it’s “go season” for the rest of us.

Nowhere is this truer than in Rocky Mountain National Park. The crowds of summer and fall disappear as winter descends and the park is transformed by snow. Even the most popular trails are suddenly quieter, calmer, and relatively empty.

The hike to Emerald Lake is probably the most popular hike in the entire park. In the warmer months, it’s overwhelmed by throngs of both tourists and locals. But in winter, parking is ample. The trail feels spacious. There is peace and quiet to be found. And now, more than ever, you can really appreciate the beauty of this classic alpine lake hike.

Note: Weather and trail conditions in Rocky Mountain National Park can be drastically different from those in Boulder. Be sure to check weather reports and current conditions for both roads and trails before heading out. 

To snowshoe or not to snowshoe? If the Bear Lake area received significant snowfall prior to your hike, snowshoes may be needed. If not, a good pair of boots and traction will usually suffice. The trail is well traveled and gets packed down quickly. The National Park Service maintains a very helpful page solely for Bear Lake conditions.  
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Boulder is a true haven for hikers. Not only do we have 145 miles of trails within city limits, but just a short drive away are countless other incredible places to explore. And if you’re a Boulderite looking new adventures, look no further than Rocky Mountain National Park.

Just an hour north of Boulder, Rocky Mountain National Park offers alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and skyscraping summits. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the country’s most popular national parks. But summertime crowds can be challenging when parking lots fill up by 7:00 am and Estes Park traffic slows to a crawl. Fortunately, winter is an entirely different scene.

In wintertime, the tourists disappear and the park becomes a true locals’ spot. Traffic is a breeze. Ample parking is found at the trailheads. The trails are quieter, having been transformed by sparkling snow. Winter is, indeed, a special time at Rocky Mountain.

Many hikers will still head to Bear Lake, the park’s most popular trailhead at any time of the year. But what if I told you there’s an equally beautiful spot that’s 20 minutes closer and just a little less traveled? Bonus: You don’t even have to pay park fees to access it.

Enter Gem Lake. This classic Rocky Mountain hike clocks in at a mere 3.6 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. But don’t be fooled – this little hike packs a very big punch. Views of the Continental Divide, awe-inspiring geological formations, and a pristine alpine lake await you. In the summer, this area is bustling. In the winter, it’s pretty much yours for the taking. So gas up the car and grab your friends, we’re going on a field trip to Gem Lake.

Please note: Weather and trail conditions in Rocky Mountain National Park may be very different from those in Boulder and they can change rapidly. Please consult the official park website for current conditions and possible closures. Snowshoes may be needed or desired on this trail, but many hikers prefer to simply wear foot traction (such as Kahtoola microspikes) if there hasn’t been a big snow in the past 24 hours.
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Imagine a quiet, peaceful forest without a soul in sight. The only sounds are your breath and the chirping chickadees. You feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of town. Believe it or not, this is Chautauqua.

Boulder’s busiest trailhead is typically bursting with people, tourists and locals alike, for much of the year. Those seeking solitude on the trails would do well to hike elsewhere. But hikers-in-the-know have a little secret up their parka sleeve: Chautauqua is an entirely different place in the wintertime.

Hiking Chautauqua in winter is a true delight. The crowds have shrunk, parking is ample, and blankets of snow have magically transformed the trails. While colder temps scare away fair weather hikers, experienced hikers can bundle up and enjoy a quieter hike right in the heart of town.

With Chautauqua’s network of short, interconnected trails, the area is ideal for moderate loop hikes or just simple meandering. You may even choose to bring your snowshoes or Nordic skis, depending upon conditions. So grab a map, layer up, and head out the door for one of Boulder’s best winter secrets. It’s time to experience Chautauqua in a whole new way.

As always, please consult the interactive map at OSMP.org for up-to-the-minute trail conditions and temporary closures. Remember that it is always best to hike with a buddy in winter. If you’re heading out solo, be sure to let someone know where you’ll be hiking and when you expect to return.
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A hike on any Boulder trail is a hike back in time. From geological formations to remnants of ancient civilizations, our open space is full of clues to this land’s rich history. Boulder’s trails invite us to take a break from our busy modern lives, enjoy fresh air and exercise, and connect with the people and events that came here long before us.

A hike on Marshall Mesa does all this and more. Best of all, its network of short, gentle, multi-use trails make it accessible to most ages and fitness levels. Marshall Mesa is a great place to take kids, seniors, out-of-towners, or beginner hikers. Those looking for a tougher hike can simply add one of many connecting trails on to their sojourn.

Got a reluctant hiker? Two words: Underground fires. History and geology buffs will be delighted, and even the apathetic can’t deny the appeal of Marshall Mesa’s incredible history. Read on for your guide to this unique and historic hike.

As always, please consult www.osmp.org for trail conditions and temporary closures.
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Most summit hikes in Boulder County demand both time and effort. The view at the top comes only to those who have earned it. And while it’s satisfying to work for something so worthwhile, this can be prohibitive to hikers of varying levels and ages. Not everyone is in a position to huff and puff their way up to the summit of Bear Peak or even Mount Sanitas. Fortunately, there is one summit that’s attainable for most hikers and its views are just as good, if not better, than any hard-earned Boulder peak.

Presenting Sugarloaf Mountain, located in Roosevelt National Forest just 7 miles west of Boulder. This 8,917-foot peak, with its distinctly conical shape, can be seen from many locations in town. Its windswept summit provides 360-degree views from the plains to the Continental Divide, and the hike to the top is a mere ¾ of a mile with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain. This makes Sugarloaf an ideal summit hike for most levels.

New to town and still acclimating? Planning a hike with kids or out-of-towners? Looking for a fantastic picnic spot in exchange for minimal effort? Get thee to Sugarloaf Mountain where you can enjoy expert views on a beginner’s trail. Read on for your guide to this lesser-known gem in Boulder County.

Please be mindful of the rules and regulations while hiking in Roosevelt National Forest. Dogs are permitted on Sugarloaf Mountain but must be kept on leash.
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