If you’re looking for breathtaking mountain views, rugged terrains, and peaceful creekside paths, the hiking trails in Boulder, Colorado, are the perfect place to explore. Tucked against the Rocky Mountain foothills, Boulder offers a trail for every type of adventurer, whether you’re after a short family-friendly walk, a strenuous summit climb, or a scenic all-day loop. With the city’s iconic Flatirons as a backdrop, each Hiking trail in Boulder gives you a different perspective of Boulder’s unique natural beauty.
Here are the best hiking trails in Boulder Colorado, to add to your adventure list.
Popular Trailheads and Loops
Walker Ranch Loop Trailhead:
This scenic loop offers a variety of terrain, including water crossings, meadows, and forested sections with significant elevation changes, a great choice for those seeking a longer hike with panoramic views.
- Length: 7.6 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Meadows, creeks, wildflowers, and sweeping mountain views.
- Location: 7701 Flagstaff Rd, Boulder, CO
Dog policy: Dogs allowed
Mount Sanitas Trail:
One of the local favorite hiking places in Boulder, Mount Sanitas packs a punch in a short distance. It’s steep and rocky, but the views of Boulder and the surrounding mountains make it one of the most rewarding hikes in town.
- Length: 3.2 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highlights: Rocky inclines, panoramic city and mountain views
- Location: 501 Sunshine Canyon Dr, Boulder, CO
Dog policy: Dogs allowed
First and Second Flatirons Loop:
The Flatirons are Boulder’s most iconic landmark, and this trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Boulder. Expect steep climbs, rocky scrambles, and sweeping vistas of Boulder below, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Length: 2.7 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Highlights: Rock scrambles, iconic Boulder views
- Location: Chautauqua Park, 900 Baseline Rd, Boulder, CO
Dog policy: Dogs allowed
Ann U White Trail:
Peaceful and shaded, this creekside trail is perfect for families. With little elevation, it’s a simple yet scenic hike.
- Length: 3.2 miles (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Shaded forest, creekside paths
- Location: 14-198 Pinto Dr, Boulder, CO
Dog policy: Dogs allowed
Royal Arch Trail:
This popular hike is one of the most scenic hiking trails in Boulder, leading to a stunning sandstone arch with panoramic views over the city and mountains
- Length: 3.5 miles (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Natural rock arch, city and mountain panoramas
- Location: Chautauqua Park, 900 Baseline Rd, Boulder, CO
Parking: Fee required
Bear Peak via Shanahan Ridge:
One of the toughest hiking trails in Boulder, Bear Peak rewards determined hikers with a rocky summit and unbeatable panoramic views of the Rockies.
- Length: ~7.4 miles (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Very strenuous
- Highlights: Rocky summit with 360-degree views
- Location: NCAR Trailhead, 1850 Table Mesa Dr, Boulder, CO or Cragmoor Trailhead, Boulder, CO
Dog policy: Dogs allowed
Family-Friendly & Accessible Trails
Boulder Canyon Trail:
This trail is ideal for families and casual hikers exploring the hiking trails in Boulder. Walk along Boulder Creek, enjoy the shade, and take in the sounds of rushing water. It’s also a popular spot for biking and fishing.
- Length: Varies (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Boulder Creek, stroller-friendly, biking and walking
Access: 24/7
Lions Lair & Sunshine Canyon Trails:
Gentle grades and a quiet setting make this trail a hit with families and casual hikers looking for a peaceful forest walk.
- Length: 4.2 miles (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Forested canyons, kid-friendly path
Dog policy: Dogs allowed
Centennial Trailhead:
With restrooms, parking, and well-maintained paths, Centennial Trailhead is one of Boulder’s most accessible and convenient hiking options.
- Length: ~2.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Accessible facilities, kid- and dog-friendly
Hours: 5 am–11 pm
Bobolink Trailhead:
This gentle path is one of the most peaceful hiking trails in Boulder, perfect for nature lovers. It’s a favorite for picnics, birdwatching, and relaxed strolls with kids or pets.
- Length: ~3 miles (out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Flat paths, South Boulder Creek, birdwatching, wheelchair accessible
Choosing the Right Trail
- For classic Boulder views: Start with the Flatirons Loop or Mount Sanitas.
- For a longer adventure: Go for the Walker Ranch Loop.
- For a summit challenge: Tackle Royal Arch or Bear Peak.
For families and accessibility: Try Bobolink Trail or Boulder Canyon Trail.
Final Thoughts
From steep summits like Bear Peak to family strolls along Bobolink Trail, the hiking trails near Boulder make it easy to connect with nature. Whether you want a workout, a peaceful escape, or simply the classic Flatirons view, you’ll find it here.
So grab your shoes and explore the best things to do in Boulder Colorado, where every path leads to adventure.
