Boulder, Colorado, is surrounded by beautiful natural areas and is a great place for hiking. Here are a few suggestions for short hikes in the area:
- Chautauqua Park: This popular park is located on the western edge of Boulder and has a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult. The Bluebell-Baird Trail is a short, easy hike that takes you through a beautiful meadow and offers great views of the Flatirons.
- Mount Sanitas: This moderate hike is located just a few minutes from downtown Boulder and takes you up a steep, rocky trail to the summit of Mount Sanitas. The views from the top are well worth the effort.
- Flagstaff Mountain: This mountain is located just outside of Boulder and has a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult. The Flagstaff Summit Trail is a short, easy hike that takes you to the top of the mountain, where you’ll find great views of the surrounding area.
- Betasso Preserve: This preserve is located in the foothills west of Boulder and has a variety of trails ranging from easy to moderate. The Ben Trail is a short, easy hike that takes you through a beautiful canyon and ends at a waterfall.
- Eldorado Canyon State Park: This state park is located about 20 minutes south of Boulder and has a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult. The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is a short, moderate hike that takes you through a beautiful canyon and offers great views of the surrounding area.
I think it did a good job although there are a few easy hikes 1 mile north of Boulder at Boulder Valley Ranch and the Hogback ridge trail west of there over the other side of the highway 36.