The Lichen Loop at Heil Valley Ranch is an easy and pleasant 1.4-mile loop that passes through a couple meadows and ponderosa pine forest. It is also family-friendly, hikers-only, and features interesting plaques describing nature and history on the trail.
This 8.5-mile, 1,450 ft-elevation gain moderate hike may be less well-known than other hikes in the Front Range, but it features some lovely and different views from other areas. In particular, the views of the valley, Mahoney Park, and the mountains beyond to the West were great.
The 7.3-mile option of hiking Mt. Sanitas via Sunshine Canyon and Lion’s Lair Trails out-and-back is now one of my favorite hikes in Boulder. You get the elevation gain of hiking Mt. Sanitas, while also getting to enjoy the beautiful views of Lion’s Lair Trail, and some good hiking mileage to boot. It can be a refreshing hike on a summer morning, as you pass through shaded forest areas along the way.
The Coulson Gulch Trail to Ralph Price Reservoir hike is 6.5 miles out-and-back. It features shady forest by a creek, meadows with mountain views, and a view of a large reservoir at the end. The hike goes downhill on the way out, and uphill on the way back.
This 5.2-mile hike in Button Rock Preserve is only moderately strenuous. It follows alongside the North Saint Vrain Creek, passes two reservoirs and two dams, and meanders on a uphill loop that features great views of Ralph Price Reservoir and the surrounding mountainous area.
This 5 mile out-and-back trail is an easy hike that passes through private farmlands, over some small hills, and by some creeks and marshland. It features gorgeous views of the Indian Peaks and Boulder mountains.
A round-up of profiles of 10 hiking trails within 10 miles of Longmont. Includes profiles of an extra 10 hiking trails within 10 miles of home, depending on where you live in Longmont.
Rabbit Mountain is a popular hike in the Lyons/Longmont area that seems to have gained popularity in the pandemic environment. With its moderate difficulty (600 ft elevation gain over 5.8 miles), family-friendly trails, and great views, this is not surprising.
On the easy side of moderate, with only 600 ft elevation gain over 3.2 miles, this trail is accessible to most visitors of Rocky Mountain National Park. While the views on this trail are breathtaking at any time of the year, there is something special about experiencing the stark wintry conditions as you pass through several iconic landscapes.
This 3.2-mile Mt. Sanitas loop hike is a must-do for anyone living or visiting the area. It features the summit of one of the most popular mountains in Boulder, as well as classic Boulder views.
