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Boulder Open Space

Trip

Intermediate Snowshoe – Boulder Open Space - Flagstaff Mountain

This lollipop route in Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks begins up the steady, scenic grade of Chapman Drive before looping through the forested and rocky trails that crown Flagstaff Mountain. Along the way, expansive overlooks reveal sweeping views of Boulder, the Flatirons, and the plains stretching eastward. The combination of gradual ascent, classic foothills terrain, and varied summit viewpoints makes this route a rewarding exploration of one of Boulder’s most iconic mountains.

Contacts

Wayne Howell
Wayne Howell
Primary Leader
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 7.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,300 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 6,995 ft
  • Pace: 1.3-1.8 MPH

This out-and-back route begins at the Chapman Drive trailhead in Boulder OSMP and climbs steadily up the wide, gravel former service road toward Realization Point on Flagstaff Mountain, gaining around 1,000 ft over a few miles on a well-graded but continuous ascent. Once we reach the higher terrain near Realization Point and the summit zone, we will explore classic trails like Tenderfoot, Ute, and Range View to take in varied ridge views of the Boulder Valley, the Indian Peaks, and the Front Range while ascending and descending through mixed terrain with open outlooks and shaded woods, ultimately returning to the trailhead along Chapman Drive. Snow on the ground, especially on shaded sections, will require either microspikes or snowshoes. We'll find a comfortable spot for snack/lunch. Our pace will be consistent with completing this hike in a reasonable amount of time. Overall, ~7 miles and 1300 ft elevation gain. (Flagstaff Mountain - CalTopo)

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at US 36 & McCaslin Blvd PnR-South 7:00AM for a 7:15AM depart (US 36 and McCaslin Blvd Park and Ride - South - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the Chapman Drive trailhead parking lot (Chapman Drive Trailhead - Google Maps)

Route/Place

Boulder Open Space

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Ten essentials and snowshoes are required. Trekking poles are recommended.

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