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Johnna Foster

Kansas >>> Colorado. Happy to be. Just a gal wondering the wilderness. Searching for untouched beauty and the next big thrill. "Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt." -John Muir

This is a tough hike, but I have also known ultra runners to do this 4 times in a day. So... there's that. Few things here, first, and most important... It doesn't matter which way you hike, you will pass Southern Sun either way to get the first car. Also, microspikes aren't just a good idea, YOU WILL slip and fall without them. OSMP has actually had a lot of injuries recently because folks don't bring traction to hike. It is also worth mentioning that while you can hike from south mesa, shanahan, ncar, etc. It hurts going up shadow or fern canyon. Starting with sanitas will allow you to go down these canyons. It isn't necessarily the better option, but I wouldn'thike it any other way. One last thing I should mention, hammocks are actually NOT allowed on open space at all. They can damage trees when set up improperly and we want to protect these beautiful resources, am I right?

Just a heads up this area is CLOSED! It is 'labeled' closed because it is closed. It has been since the 2013 floods. They are working on restoring the trail and are anticipating it being done soon, but no date has been established yet. It is closed for public safety, a few people have even been killed or injured from loose rock fall that all of that water loosened up. They are working on securing it and rebuilding the trail. The rangers have been regularly patrolling this area, even more so lately, because people blatantly ignore the signs and jump the fence anyway. They are tired of complaints and injuries and they WILL write you a ticket. The ticket is for trespassing and includes a fine of up to $1000 and a mandatory court appearance.

This is a great hike, but the directions on getting there in this article can be a little deceiving. You will take Eldorado Springs Drive, but the road eventually turns into a dirt road if you go too far. You will actually be looking for trail head signs on your left or right for the City of Boulder OSMP, it is just a little ways around the curve after the Rocky Mountain Fire Station. The North side is South Mesa and the South side is Doudy Draw Trailhead. DO NOT park in the road, it is illegal and the chances of you getting a ticket are extremely high. Be conscious of signage as well, almost all of South Mesa is closed during the week right now due to restoration work. Also, these trailheads are extremely busy on the weekends, especially in the summer. This leads into my next point, THIS IS NOT YOUR ONLY OPTION TO BEAR PEAK!!! There are several other stunning options. You can hike in through Shanahan Ridge, Cragmoor, Bear Mountain Road, NCAR, or even from Green Mountain West ridge if you are feeling really adventurous! Plan your trip accordingly and make sure you "Know Before You Go!"

Lion's Lair is one of my FAVORITE ways to summit Sanitas. But sorry folks, the secret is out. It has been getting busier and busier as the summer has progressed. Also beware, this trail does NOT allow dogs. It is in a wildlife refuge area and people do have a right to hike a trail that doesn't have dogs. You can hike up the sunshine canyon trail with your furry friend, but once you cross the road and head up lions lair, it is a no go. There are locals who hike this trail almost everyday and they will call the rangers to address any dogs on this trail. They take it seriously, and rightfully so. Rangers will always write tickets on this trail so it is best to either find another place to hike or just leave fido at home for this one.

It is a bit of a steep hike coming in from Gregory canyon, but it is absolutely beautiful. Especially if you can come on a nice foggy or snowy day. That is the best time to do any of the canyons in Boulder honestly. There is a ladder that you must climb up because part of the trail was destroyed in the 2013 floods. But it is very easy. Please be conscious of staying on the trail (Anywhere in Boulder Open Space honestly) there are several social trails that are causing significant erosion and damage to the beautiful vegetation in these areas.

Such a beautiful drive. Especially if you are trying to kill and little time and are completely beat from hiking and climbing the day before.

This crag is right in my backyard and I couldn't be more happy about that. All of the areas are easy to access, and heck, you may even get to do a Tyrol on the way. But be wary, they are made of ropes, not cable, so getting across will be a little bit of a workout in itself. The people are friendly and the rock is pretty awesome, it doesn't get much better than that.