Need to switch up your daily gym routine? Don’t feel like going for a run today? Throw on your Lems and take a hike up the mountains. If you’re near the Boulder area like us, try out one of these five hiking destinations.
Living here in Boulder, it was pretty difficult to pick only five hiking spots, considering that there are so many to choose from. I know I’ve ben trying to knock more and more off my list, but I feel like it’s never-ending and I haven’t even put a dent in it yet. However, these are some pretty cool trails in the Boulder area that should definitely be explored.
1. Mount Sanitas
Sanitas is a great place to head up for a moderate to challenging hike. It has several accessible trails that are suitable for anyone and has some of the prettiest sites. Sanitas is actually Latin for “health” – seems fitting, right? Take one of the easier paths like the Valley Hike or challenge yourself with the 3.1 Mile Loop! Either way, the views will undoubtedly leave you satisfied.
2. Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua is one of the more well-known parks and it really is the jack-of-all-trades. You can take the Mesa Trail, Baseline Trail, First or Second Flatiron, the Royal Arch and so many more. All of these trails range from different durations and elevations, which means you’ll be able to find the perfect hike to fit your needs.
3. Green Mountain
For a more strenuous hike, take a venture over to Green Mountain. There are two trail options for this hike: Greenman or Ranger. On the Ranger trail, you’ll find more carved steps and Greenman seems to be a gentler climb. Either route you take, the views at the top are absolutely breathtaking and completely worth the burn!
4. Rattlesnake Gulch
Wanting a hike that’s not too challenging, but not necessarily easy, either? Check out Rattlesnake Gulch for some killer views. This hike also has some pretty incredible history behind it – like the Crags Hotel site, which stood in 1908 and was burned down in 1913. Some mystery, right? This trail will take you up the sides of the Eldorado Canyon, which is one of Colorado’s historic State Parks, and will leave you breathtaken at the top.
5. Red Rocks Trail
Ready for a quick and easy 30-40 minute hike to end the day? Red Rocks Trail is perfect for a short trip with gorgeous views. Make it to the top and you can see the entire city of Boulder in one direction, and an incredible view of the flatirons in the other. This trail is also a good start for beginners or for those who just need a quick getaway up the mountains.
It’s supposed to be 60+ degrees today in Boulder. You know what that means? Post work hike! Now the big question is, where do I want to go? Like I said, too many options.. and to top it off, I’m the most indecisive person in the world.