If you love the great outdoors, then it doesn’t get any better than Colorado – from the Western Slope to the Rockies, the Centennial State has a wealth of hiking spots that will impress even the most seasoned travelers.
Bald Mountain Scenic Area
Located along Sunshine Canyon Drive, roughly five miles from Boulder, Bald Mountain is a popular hiking spot. The Pines to Peaks loop that leads to the summit of the mountain is an easy one-mile hike that the whole family can enjoy. It’s also a great picnic area, so claim a table and enjoy some snacks.
The view along the trail is just as breathtaking, with majestic ponderosa pine trees and gently rolling hills visible from all directions. However, you’ll also see charred trees to the west of the trail as come closer to the summit – a reminder of the Fourmile Canyon wildfires that ravaged the area in 2010.
Kids exploring the trail can follow the Nature Detectives Club’s Mystery Guide, a resource that encourages them to complete three to six activities that at various locations in Bald Mountain Scenic Area with the help of adult companions. The guide gives them many opportunities to get acquainted with Bald Mountain’s native flora and fauna, including wildflowers, ponderosa pines, squirrels, chipmunks, chickadees, and more.
Boy Scout Trail
Located in idyllic Glenwood Springs, this trail is considered one of the best biking paths this side of Colorado. Your hike begins with a three-mile climb in the Western Slope followed by fairly steep three-mile double track road.
Somewhere along the way, the path branches off to the Forest Hollow Trail, a smooth section that cuts through the lush greenery of Glenwood Canyon Rim about a few hundred miles to the left of Boy Scout Trail.
The peak of Boy Scout trail commands stunning views of Glenwood Canyon. A hike along Forest Hollow trail offers views of the Colorado River and the cliffs below.
Enchanted Mesa /McClintock Trails
If you’re in Boulder, the Enchanted Mesa and McClintock trails are a must-visit. The trailhead is located just south of the Chautauqua Auditorium. Swing by the Ranger Cottage for maps, directions, and other information you might need for a safe and enjoyable hike.
The 0.6-mile McClintock Trail starts in the picnic area of the auditorium and meanders through a serene streamside forest before crisscrossing with the Enchanted Mesa trail at a stone bridge. From there, the trail takes you higher along the edge of a gulley before ending at the Mesa Trail.
At 6.9 miles, the Enchanted Mesa Trail begins at a gravel fire road past the metal gate at the auditorium. From the stone bridge, the trail takes you to an overlook with fantastic views of the city and through a wonderful ponderosa pine forest before linking to the Mesa Trail.
NCAR Trail
Another popular hiking spot in Boulder, the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Trail spans 1.1 kilometers and takes you to scenic Mesa Trail with views of Boulder Mountain Scenic Area and the Flatirons.
It’s also a great jump-off point for hikes to several other trails and attractions, including Bear Canyon, Green, and Bear Mountain trails. It’s a good starting point for a hike to Mallory Cave, a small cave that’s well worth the visit.
Live close to some of Colorado’s finest hiking trails when you move to Boulder or any of the surrounding communities. The Noel Team can help you find the perfect home. You can reach us at 303.774.9400 or through this contact form.
