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Hike South Boulder Peak

Boulder, Colorado

4.5/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

6.7 miles

Elevation Gain

2900 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Brock DeHaven

Hike up South Boulder, Boulder's highest peak. You'll get views of the eastern plains, Denver, Boulder, and the continental divide.

Starting at the Mesa trailhead, continue a half a mile through a relatively even grade before arriving at the North Fork Shanahan trailhead, which will take you another half a mile on much steeper grade up to Fern Canyon where you will start a much harder portion of the hike; here, you'll head straight up the mountain through a heavily forested area filled with streams and an abundance of wildlife.

Once you reach the end of the Fern Canyon trail, your efforts will be rewarded with views of the Continental Divide and Indian Peaks Wilderness straight in front of you with Green Mountain, Boulder's second largest peak, to your right. At this point, continue to ascend the Bear Peak trailhead another 0.3 miles through boulder fields and a heavily scorched forest (lingering proof of the wildfire that took place in the summer of 2012).

Once you've conquered the final climb, scramble up immense boulders and reach the top of Boulder's highest peak.

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Features

Fitness
Rock Climbing
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Forest
Scenic

Hike South Boulder Peak Reviews

This hike is pretty difficult, but it is outstanding at the top

Hiking up Boulder's highest peak was cool. I got views of the eastern plains, Denver, Boulder, and the continental divide.

Challenging, but totally worth it!

This hike gives you the work out, the sights, photography, biking and leisure spots. I don't think it can disappoint anyone.

Challenging but worth it! Beautiful views and not extremely crowded at the summit!

A super challenging hike that gives amazing views at the end. It's also worth hiking the neighbor bear peak.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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