Flatirons
Flatirons
5
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
1,134 reviews
Excellent
914
Very good
197
Average
14
Poor
5
Terrible
4
MikeB1952
Santa Fe, NM1,197 contributions
Mar 2023
What a surprising drive! We were going to Chitaqua Park in Boulder, but it was pretty full. So we decided to continue driving into the mountains. The road went up and up and up and . . . (well you get the idea). The road was curvy with numerous switch-backs. Occasionally there were viewing sites where you could see out on the plains forever. (Note, at popular stops there is a parking fee). We drove on to Gross Reservoir where there is a trail to the lake and a number of picnic tables. The road beyond Gross Reservoir is problematic in that they're enlarging the Gross Reservoir Dam and close the road intermittently. We loved the drive. We loved the road (well mostly. It was pretty hairy in parts). And loved the scenery and views. What a nice surprise.
Written April 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris Gormley
Pittsburgh, PA94 contributions
Aug 2022
The hiking is very convenient to Boulder (vs. Rocky Mountain National, etc.). Parking is difficult to score - particularly on weekends one must also pay the meter rates. The rangers at the house next to the park are helpful to describe routes/trails. The maps are great, but it's still difficult to navigate at times because the trails are labeled and one has to infer from the map which trails one is on. The trail is relatively easy and scenic. It gets more difficult the higher one ascends.
Written September 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ken D
Beavercreek, OH124 contributions
Apr 2019
It is hard to find a more stunning view than that of the Boulder Flatirons as you crest the hill of US-36 that drops into Boulder. The beauty increases during a blue sky sunrise with a fresh snowfall blanketing them. Don't ignore this - ever!
Written February 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DCCSYR
Syracuse, NY113 contributions
Oct 2022
There are a variety of trails below the Flatirons in western Boulder. Even the easiest ones involve a minimum of 450 feet of elevation. Many are shaded, providing protection from the sun. Some of the Flatiron loops are under repair and closed for repairs from Monday to Thursday. However, they are open and passable from Friday to Sunday. Parking is tight on weekends, even in mid-October, unless you arrive early. The Royal Arch trail is the most challenging, moderate difficulty trail.
Written October 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Selena S
Indianapolis, Indiana, United States87 contributions
Jul 2022
We were confused as to where we were supposed to go. We never did find how to get close. We just drove to a roadside scenic view and took pictures. The Flatirons themselves are very cool. I just wish we could have found more informatin about them at a park headquarters or something.
Written July 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Debbi D
mattapoisett, ma766 contributions
Feb 2021
We hiked this after a pretty heavy snowstorm. It was gorgeous with the snow sticking to the branches of the pines and the Flat irons looming above. Really gorgeous. It is no joke though. The elevation happens quickly and with the snow, we probably should have had snowshoes or at least microspikes. It was very slippery. We also got a little lost so I would strongly recommend taking a picture of the map or getting one to bring with you. ENJOY!
Written February 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FOTMM
United States3,797 contributions
Nov 2021
Went early in the morning on a few weekdays. The parking lots were nearly full by 8am and we selected trails to avoid the crowds. Hiking was beautiful with great views of the Flatirons, Boulder, and Denver out on the Plains. The final few hundred yards back to the trailheads were jammed with people when leaving around 10-11am.
Written November 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Skiiergirlie
Grapevine, TX41 contributions
Jun 2024 • Friends
Nice walk but dress for it. When the trail forks stay along the power lines for the shorter trek. We went late afternoon and it was hot in the sun - bring water and wear sunscreen. Lots of other walkers, hikers and bikers along the way, all of whom were very friendly.
Written June 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FrisbeeFlinger
Satellite Beach, FL33 contributions
Jun 2024 • Friends
First, I will say that I am a 58 year old from Florida. I am physically active, with walking, rowing and playing pickleball, but I am a flat-lander living at 3 feet above sea level. That being said, I hiked the South Mesa Loop with my bestie, who lives in the Carolinas and is an avid hiker. She chose this trail since it was categorized as a moderate-level hike. From my perspective, this started out fairly easy but once we got into the trees, the trail become pretty challenging. Parts of the wooded trail get a bit steep with many steps of either rocks or logs. The elevation was a challenge for me as well, we stopped several times to catch our breath when my heart rate was significantly elevated. All that being said, it was a beautiful hike with changing views with each stop we made. There was a small creek and pool that crossed the path and we enjoyed cooling off our feet in the cold water. Once your reach the highest point halfway through the hike, the hardest part is behind you and the path changes to a wide, packed gravel trail with a gentle downward grade. It took us about 3 hours to complete the hike and it was well-worth it! If you're a beginner, you can enjoy it by planning several stops along the way. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack or two.
Written June 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim W
Panama City, FL1,227 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
Great hiking trails. Caught up with some family from the area and did a quick hike. Nice smooth trails with some elevation change and lots of scenery. Mid-March had good mix of snow with warmer sun and made for a good Saturday morning hike.
Written October 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What is it like in May? Just wanting to sure what clothing, insection precaution, animal precautions needed.
Written December 14, 2019
ok, I am born and raised in Colorado. The answers just seem like typical answers. In Colorado you ALWAYS need a jacket. Weather can change in an instant. We do not get mosquitos UNTIL a really wet spring, then they come LATE summer. You need to watch out for rattlesnakes, YES they are all over the foothills. Because of this I would wear hiking boots. We do have coyotes too.
Written December 16, 2019
We will be traveling to Boulder in mid October. Would this be a good area to hike at this time of year?
Thanks!
Written September 22, 2018
I am sure walking, hiking around Boulder and the foothills one of the best time of the year is in the Fall. You have many options how far how strenuous hike you want to do. The smell of nature and the colours are fantastic this time of the year. You can't get wrong picking and easy or more challanging hike!
Written October 2, 2018
eriya520
Indianapolis, Indiana
Looks like it not an easy hike. Is there any easy trail to hike with toddler? Or should I take it off my plan?
Written August 6, 2018
Yes towards the beginning a toddler will be able to enjoy. Depending on the size of the toddler, carrying will allow you to move along quickly. If your toddler is anything like my two, they’ll stop every 5 seconds to pick up rocks and you won’t get far. 🙂
Written August 6, 2018
Has anyone hiked here early to mid August and noticed mosquitos? Trying to decide if I need my deet or if my natural picaridin will suffice. Thanks!
Written August 5, 2018
They're bad--and we have
West Nile in the area, so you want DEET.
Written August 6, 2018
It is just off baseline road. You will see it. There isn't an address
Written July 22, 2018
Clayton S
Tomball, Texas
Not in great shape. Want to go on a leisure hike in late December. Any tips?
Written November 13, 2017
There is street parking that's free if you want to start your walk earlier. Talk to the ranger/docent at the visitor center. He or she will advise. There are definitely flat trails in the meadows that are very pleasant walking. If you want a hike, that's available too of course, and yes there are plenty of hills to climb, but only if that's what you choose. This is a great location.
Written December 19, 2017
Thinking of making a quick weekend trip out there. I am looking for a way to Hike during the day and camp overnight. Has anyone done this?? I have not seen anything about camping.
Written August 19, 2017
There is camping west of Boulder between Nederland and Rocky Mountain. If camp rustically be careful the bears are on the prowl. It is said "that what doesnt kill ya only makes you stronger.....Except bears. .....Bears will kill you! Just be careful with food in the wild. Up in the National Park is some of the best camping and Hiking just get away from crowded areas. ...
Written August 28, 2017
How isn't the weather around early April ? Should this too be on our list ?
Written September 30, 2016
We were there much later than April when the weather was very warm and all the walks were available. Looking at the answers from other contributors it could be a problem or you may strike lucky.
Sorry can't be helpful.
Written October 2, 2016
tretterj
Kaiserslautern, Germany
Hello
I will be stay at Boulder mid of March 2016.
The idea is after finishing the meeting to stay some days in the area of Boulder and to visit interesting nature by walking/hiking
Als recomandations fpor restaurants would be nice
Written December 15, 2015
How would I be able to access the trailhead? I'm staying in Boulder near Pearl St. and don't have a car, so is there a bus I can take to get to the trails?
Written July 29, 2015
The main trails start at Chautauqua on the south end of town. I'm not sure how close a city bus can get you there but you would take Broadway south to 9th street and head west on 9th. You'd run right into it. It's only about 2 miles from Pearl. Another option is Uber or Lyft. We find that there are plenty of Uber drivers available and it would likely cost you only around $5.
Written July 30, 2015
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