There are family-friendly and accessible hikes in Boulder, but this list focuses on the most epic views through the varied terrain with the best chance to see wildlife.
The trail continues into a contrastingly serene wind-protected green section with great side trails and outlooks perfect for a mid-hike picnic.
The Royal Arch hike takes trampers through a conifer forest with beautifully colored lichen on the sedimentary rock. After a tiring climb, the trail teases hikers with a false summit at Sentinel Pass.
Mount Sanitas is Boulder’s most popular hike with many options to reach the summit. This hike is the most approachable of those rated difficult on this list.
The Green Mountain loop is an underappreciated hike to one of the best views near Boulder. Perhaps just as interesting as the hike is the drive up to Flagstaff Road to the trailhead.
For those looking for a moderate hike with a unique view of the city, Woods Quarry is another local gem not as heavily trafficked as other trails in the area.