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Hike to the 1st Flatiron

Boulder, Colorado

4.6/5
based on 13 reviews

Details

Distance

2.4 miles

Elevation Gain

1422 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Annie Rumbles

Leave the crowd behind by pushing yourself just that bit further - passed the beautiful 2nd Flatiron and finishing behind the grand, and iconic, 1st Flatiron.

Starting at the ever-popular and ever-populated Chautauqua Trailhead, take the main trail (a highway version of a dirt trail) straight towards the Flatirons. Continue going straight passed the Ski Jump trail to your right (0.2 mi.), then at a crossroads with the Bluebell-Baird trail (0.3 mi.) turn right onto the 1st/2nd Flatiron trail (0.7 mi.). Follow this trail over a rock slide, twice, and passed the 2nd Flatiron via several switchbacks. Don't be fooled, once you reach the 2nd Flatiron, continue through a saddleback, up a couple more switchbacks, and up to the backside of the 1st Flatiron.

Once there, find yourself a nook in the rock, sit, and listen to swallows and swifts chirping overhead as you look out toward Indian Peaks Wilderness area and Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park.

If you'd like to assist in keeping Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks clean like I do, perhaps carry along a bag to fill with any trash you come across along the way. Because of the high use of this beautiful area, some treat it with less than the respect it deserves - leave no trace!

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Features

Fitness
Rock Climbing
Photography
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Scenic

Hike to the 1st Flatiron Reviews

Love this short, steep hike. Spent my summer just outside Boulder and was lucky enough to get to the top of the Flatirons twice. The first time I did this hike, and the second time around I free-soloed the second flat iron- another must do for any climbers out there.

My husband and I went on this hike on our honeymoon. It is close to Boulder, making it very accessible. The directions provided were wonderful and we were able to find the trail head with no problem. The switchbacks were a little more steep than anticipated but the view from the top was well worth it!

Pretty easy and quick hike with great views from the top and on the way

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Green Mountain via Chautauqua Park

Royal Arch Trail

Hike the Chautauqua Trail to the Ski Jump Trail

Hike the Enchanted Mesa Trail

Hike the Saddle Rock Trail

Green Mountain via Gregory Canyon and Ranger Trail