Boulder Trails
People in Boulder love to be active outdoors. I think it must be a requirement for living here. We love to walk for exercise and hike for fun, so we’re in just the right place at just the right time of year (the snow is gone, and the flowers are here).
There are trails everywhere, of all kinds, and lots of them. The AllTrails app lists over 200 scenic trails in Boulder! Some are wide and paved, winding through tony neighborhoods and looping around lakes. Others are steep and rocky, leading up mountains or down into canyons. Deciding where to walk or hike each day is like deciding what to order at a great restaurant. It’s my favorite kind of dilemma: do we try something new, or return to a favorite?
We’re not yet halfway through our stay here in Boulder, so there are still many more walks and hikes ahead, but here are some of trails we’ve enjoyed to date:
Closest to Home: Centennial
This network of trails could be accessed just a few blocks from our apartment. They were quick and easy to reach, but challenging to hike. We learned this the hard way when we had to scramble down the aptly named Goat Trail without proper hiking boots. It was fun to hike along the Dakota Ridge, with the green Sanitas Valley on one side and the city of Boulder on the other. We haven’t done the longer hike to the top of Mount Sanitas yet, but it’s on our list.
A Longer Walk from Home: Wonderland Lake
I discovered Wonderland Lake somewhat by accident, on one of my morning walks through the neighborhood. I was admiring the beautiful houses and gardens when found myself at the entrance to a wildlife sanctuary. The Wonderland Lake Trail looped around the lake, which was a lovely mirror for the hills and sky. About 1.5 miles from our home, this trail was a good option for walks after work, when we didn’t feel like putting on our hiking boots.
Worth the (Short) Drive: Chautauqua
Chautauqua sits at the base of the Flatirons, the huge rock slabs that are the iconic symbol of the city of Boulder. It’s a National Historic Landmark comprised of a city park and the Colorado Chautauqua. The Chautauqua Trailhead is gateway to over 40 miles of trails! It was 2.5 miles from our home, so driving and parking was needed, but definitely worthwhile. It was hard work to hike up the steep, rocky paths, but we were rewarded with panoramic views of the city and an up-close look at the 2nd Flatiron. Another reward was hiking down into a verdant canyon and then walking around (or through) the lush meadow in front of the Flatirons.
One of the great things about Boulder is that people of all ages are out using the trails at all hours of the day, every day of the week. We were always in good company when we were out walking or hiking. With such beautiful surroundings, it’s easy to see why living in Boulder means spending a lot of time outside.
