I was only in the Denver area for a week, so wanted to keep it lowkey with the hikes and went to the Flatirons to do so instead. Given that the Flatirons essentially sit at the base of the Rocky Mountains, this is a much more doable area for those who are just visiting and haven't acclimated to the change in elevation! There are a ton of hiking trails that stretch for miles and can be explored all throughout the Flatirons, but the best part of the Boulder Flatirons is its proximity to the city of Boulder! Boulder literally sits at the foothills of the Flatirons, so its a quick jaunt from the mountains to the city in this area and the city of Boulder has a great downtown, college town, and just generally a ton to offer to tourists and locals alike! A must visit when you're in the Denver area! read more

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Absolutely breathtaking views from the top. It's so high up and was a challenging hike up to the 1st and 2nd Flatirons. Highly recommend if you're in the area. read more

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A great public resource for those living in Boulder. A ton of trails on the west side of town with trailheads that have free parking. Great for hiking or trail running and rock climbing. Lucky lucky locals! read more

Boulder Flatirons - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

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Can you even say you've been to Boulder if you haven't hiked the Flatiron Mountains. These beauties are the visual icon of what Boulder is. But don't just stop there. There are trails that wander all over the green fields belong the mountains. And don't miss the trail that will let you climb all of the way up to the top of Flagstaff. Be prepared for crazy parking (meaning no parking) on busy weekends. You'll need to park farther into Boulder and take the free shuttles. But the hikes are magical. read more

Medium difficulty hike. We were on our way to the Royal Arch but unfortunately it was closed. Still glad this existed though because it was a beautiful hike and a great work out as well. Heavily trafficked but definitely worth the views. It wasn't too long either so a great place for someone to check out when visiting or before brunch! read more

Boulder Flatirons - Way to the flatirons. - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

This trail is awesome! It is in Boulder so it is just so beautiful already! The mountain you already get to see before even hiking is breathtaking. It is not a flat hike so it is a challenge but nothing too hard, anyone can do it, just take breaks as much as you need. It is a very scenic hike and many shade spots along the way. The trail is also very popular so you never feel alone on the hike but it is still so peaceful as you claim higher. Great place to Boulder as well if you like to, I like to stay on the ground but you see many other rock climbing. Come check this trail out, it is awesome!!! read more

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Flatirons is a great hiking trail just outside of Boulder. The scenery stands out quite well. It looks iconic. Do you know why they call it the Flatirons? It's because the rocks looks like the bottom of irons, the thing you iron clothes with. That's why they're called the Flatirons. There's several starting points. But the popular one is the Chautauqua Park. There are ample parking, including street parking. At Chautauqua Park, there is a small Ranger Cottage that has a nice Ranger inside. There's also a ton of info about the trails and the park. The ranger inside seemed friendly and helpful. She recommended the best trails for us to climb for our level and time. There's trails for every level. You can do super long trails or you can do short ones. I'm sure each trail gives you amazing sights and scenery. We hiked the Royal Arch Trail, which ended up at the Woods Quarry. At the Woods Quarry, there are stone "chairs" you can sit at and enjoy the view. For a first time visitor, this is a great trail to visit. It does get steep near the end, but it's doable. I suggest you not climb the actual rocks themselves. I have heard there are a lot of deaths of people trying to climb it. Walking the trails was amazing. I felt like I was in the video game Skyrim. I thought Bandits would start popping up. If you're in Boulder, I suggest checking this place out. read more

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This was the best hike and view I've ever had in my life. The hike up to the tip of the flatirons isn't for the faint of heart because at some points it's fairly steep and you need to climb up some rocks. But it was breathtaking at the top. Totally worth the exhausting (and sometimes a little scary) hike. read more

Boulder Flatirons - The view from the top - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

Nestled just outside of Boulder, the Flatirons provides a fantastic view of the city from above. Don't expect to see major natural features here aside from the three main attractions: the Flatirons. You'll start at a very busy parking lot, walk up some man-made trails and then you'll get into the good part of the trails. We did a few hour trail as many of the trails were under construction due to the high-usage of the trails. We decided to climb up the second Flatiron, I believe. The views at the top are stunning. Don't expect it to be an easy climb either. It's a nice cardio workout as you zig-zag up the entire Flatiron till you reach the top. On one side, you'll see mountains, forests, and others. On the other side, you'll view Boulder and beyond. A very nice resting spot after you've hiked. This place is extremely busy as it's right outside of the city. We noticed a large amount of college students during our time, so be prepared for that. Some were blaring loud music that didn't really fit in with the hiking scene for us. Regardless, it was a great hike and only having to drive 5 min from our hotel was an added bonus. And, it's free! Hope they get the trails fixed and maintained so we can enjoy the rest of the trails the next time! read more

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The flatirons are definitely an amazing geologic site. that wasn't terribly impressed with the hiking conditions. Maybe it was where I parked. Most of my hike was across the flat land and some was in trees. But despite my best effort I never actually got to the flatirons.I saw the flat irons, I got some great pictures of flatirons. I know point that I actually put hand on Rock. read more

I did the 1/2 Flatirons and Royal Arch, and both were great! There were views of the mountains and views of the city, and both hikes were challenging and fun. I really enjoyed it, and it's amazing that the mountains are at the foot of Boulder. Definitely recommend! read more

Highly recommend. There is plenty of parking near the camp. I encourage you to bring a water bottle and speak to the mountain man in the guide center before your hike. There is a bathroom and water fountain. I actually had a really hard time on this hike due to being out of shape and the altitude. I live in KY. I would have enjoyed myself more if I went with others on my skill level, lungs included. Hahah. Just be prepared for a decent hike. The views are gorgeous. We didn't pay attention and took a wrong turn, but enjoyed the spur. We also saw a group of deer !!!! I cannot wait to return when I'm in better shape. On our decent, it started hailing! Be prepared for every weather out there and when you see the storm coming, turn around. Don't be stupid. read more

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We decided to get a bit adventurous on our recent vacation in Boulder, so we went to check out the infamous Flatirons. It was a beautiful October day, which is a great time to visit in my opinion. They are a sight to see, both from the bottom and once you've hiked up to the top. If, like me, you're not too "outdoorsy", you can still enjoy this sight, as the hike is pretty easy and it's not too far of a drive to get there from main downtown area either. Grab a map, good shoes, a jacket and get to hiking! You won't regret it, especially once you get to the top. read more

Boulder Flatirons - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

Awesome hike. Definitely take the Royal Arch Trail. It's difficult; but well worth it when you get to the top, which is about 1400 feet in elevation gain. Awesome views; and dog friendly. read more

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Behind Eldorado Canyon, the Flatirons is my most frequented outdoor spot. I run/climb here at least twice a week. There are a large number of trailheads to access the Flatirons, the most popular (crowded) being Chautauqua. The park holds a large number of trails of varying steepness for hikers/trail runners and it's not difficult to put in 15 miles without backtracking. Several of the high points top 8000'. It's no surprise that quite a few of the the top ultrarunners live in town. For climbers/scramblers the park has a lot to offer, from class 3 to 5.13+, sport, bouldering, and trad. The rock is conglomerate sandstone, which holds up fairly well under wet conditions (unlike the rock in places like Red Rock Canyon outside Vegas). Helpful hints: - S Mesa, Doudy Draw, Gregory Canyon, Flagstaff, and Flatirons Vista parking areas charge a parking fee for vehicles not registered in Boulder Co (currently $5 daily or $25 annually) - Those interested in climbing should pick up Jason Haas', Climbing Boulder's Flatirons excellent full color guide book. - Some of the formations are subject to seasonal wildlife closures (namely the 1 Feb to 31 July raptor closures), so check the Boulder Co Open Space and Mt Park (OSMP) website if you're unsure. read more

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The Boulder Flatirons are my favorite Boulder hike. I make it a priority every time I get out to Colorado. My last visit I hike the Royal Arch trail. It has an incredible summit, but I definitely recommend being in shape and having precious biker experience as it's not easy. Also, make sure you set enough time aside to make it a half day trip. read more

Boulder Flatirons - Base of trail. - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

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So, I have to admit that I did not do my research about Boulder before visiting. At the hotel we were staying at, I asked the staff member what Boulder was known for and she told me about the Flatirons. So, I looked it up. On the day we got in, it was a bit hazy, so the spires were not visible. It was nicer on the next day and being in front them was simply breathtaking. The day after that, I got to see them covered with snow after it had snowed overnight. If you're visiting Boulder, definitely hike to see the Flatirons. I look forward to coming back there again. When my family and I went the first time, it was quite icy, so heed caution when going up some of the trails and wear the proper shoes. There were some spots, where the terrain got a bit too dangerous because it was slippery. Other than that, I loved looking at these flatirons and seeing the sun shine on them... made them sparkle a bit. read more

Hiked here in the winter and wow, was it beautiful!! I'm from Texas so we never see snow. It was so breathtaking especially at the top! We hiked the First and Second Flatiron trail which is only 3 miles roundtrip but of course during the winter it'll take you much longer. We came on a Monday so we found parking easily but don't know how it's like on the weekends. The parking lot seemed small. In walking distance is the Chautauqua Dining Hall which was a great reward after our hike to warm up and get a beer. Bring good boots, snacks, and enjoy the trail. You won't regret it! read more

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Visited this naturally gorgeous site during the latter part of December 2019, you know right before the world changed due to COVID-19. We didn't have on the proper winter gear compared to some, but for my family's first time there we made the best out of it. If you do visit in wintertime and you have a chance to buy or rent some type of winter hiking gear you should be able to get further on your adventure to the Flatirons with it. Once life gets back to some type of normalcy I would love to revisit Boulder again with definitely some time devoted to the Flatirons. I am assuming though that once humans and humanoids are allowed to go out in the wilderness with the abundance of wild animals who have grown accustomed to our absence, all outdoor attractions, especially the affordable ones like the Flatirons will be ridiculously packed. read more

Pictures don't do this place justice. You really can't appreciate the beauty and magnitude of these rock formations and their colors until you see it in person. It truly is a spectacle that must be seen. Don't miss this natural beauty if your ever around Boulder. There are many trails from easy to moderate with breath taking views. Also, this place is FREE and pet friendly. read more

Boulder Flatirons - Few from street. - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

Beautiful hike! Many different paths for many skill levels! We met a very nice park ranger that stopped to chat with us and was very informative. read more

Oh the best! Definitely. Why do you think I stay in Boulder rather than Denver? Well, it ain't for the ladies, Ill tell you that. It's definitely for spectacular weather, which lends itself quite well to spectacular views. You will not regret the choice of moving here for this reason. On account of the flatirons, every day is somewhat beautiful. (Wow, i think that may be the most sincere statement of all my reviews). So check it out. It is, like I said...JUST PLAIN GREAT. Shall I try to describe this? Let's see, well, there are most definitely a rather stone color, (sometimes with snow peaked tips!). Surrounded by most royal blue of skies. Floating green fields. Daisies. Sunshine! I can't do it justice....you just have to experience...The Flatirons. read more

I came here on a hike with my friends for my first time and I can't believe that I've never been here the entire time I've lived in Boulder!! The views are amazing and the trail isn't to difficult. Definitely bring some snacks as we only brought water. Highly recommend to anyone who wants a great day in Boulder! read more

Contructed in the late 50's, the Boulder flatirons attracted a great following in the 1960s for their beauty and great climbing. This caused comfortable growth for a booming progressive (read hippie, flower-child type) population for a few decades. By the time the 90's hit, the flatirons became cliche. But even in 2006, they are still nice to look at. read more

Boulder Flatirons - Boulder Flatirons - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

A friend of mine was visiting from Michigan, and I wanted to take him on a hike to show him the beauty of Colorado, without killing his sea-level lungs. The hike was absolutely beautiful and surprisingly not crowded, although we did go on a weekday. Unfortunately the road was closed going up to the trail heads (I think? It was my first time at the flat irons), so we didn't end up finding the trail I had planned on hiking. I'll definitely go back some time with some Colorado natives, and have them show me the best trails and how to find them. In all, highly recommended for someone of any fitness level. I would rate the hike easy-to-moderate (some places did involve more stair-stepping up uneven rocks) but overall it was a great time, even for my unacclimatized friend! read more

Parking is bad, but we lucked out. We got there fairly early, but there were already tons of people, locals, trainees and tourists. It's a good idea to drop by the Visitor Center as the trails are not well marked. We did get a bit lost. We reached the first flatiron. It was foggy, so not much of a view, but it was somewhat a fun challenge to get up there. However, as the weather cleared up, we got some beautiful sights. There are rock climbers and many 4-legged friends. Watch your step; some parts are slippery and rocky. All in all, It was a lot of fun. read more

Beautiful place. Great hiking options in Chautaqua but you need proper hiking shoes. The nature trails are mildly rugged with some parts where you are literally walking only on rocks. The natural beauty is impressive and definitely worth a trip if you're in the area. read more

Would be five stars except they cause the sunlight to go away earlier and block my view of the sunset. Besides that they're excellent! P. S. This review is for humans deciding where to go. I'm not suggesting that nature do anything different. read more

I highly recommend The Flatirons. I was only able to devote half a day, but the hike to the First & Second Flatiron was scenic and wonderful. read more

Boulder Flatirons - The view from the top of the First Flatiron in Boulder, Colorado. - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

Great views and virtually every type of hike, trail, walk, mtn bike and beautiful vistas and views you can think of. Just take baseline rd to flagstaff rd and continue! A must do while in Boulder read more

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Great place for hiking!! Had an awesome day here. Don't forget to bring water! Great location. Beautiful views. Will be back soon.

Awesome hiking trail. I did it by myself the first time. I loved it. I went in to get my map and it was easy to follow. It wasn't too busy when I went, which was good so I didn't feel rushed. Iw was able to stop and take a rest if I needed to. It's a great work out and when you get the top you're rewarded with beautiful views. I did the first flat iron! I want to do more next time I visit. I also took the bus and it dropped me off about half a mile from the park entrance. It was a beautiful walk to see all the flowers and green grass along the way. I saw butterflies and birds. Boulder is beautiful. read more

It's the Flatirons dummy, How can you have anything negative to say about them? I guess maybe if you are that chick that was tripping on shrooms, and got lost up there in the winter, you might have a negative opinion.... read more

We live here. It;s beautiful and treacherous when it snows. But being within walking distance to some of the most beautiful trails in Boulder? Priceless. read more

Awesome trails around the Flatirons area! Just beautiful! I enjoyed my hikes immensely! Lovely views!

Great hike and rewarding view at the top. Probably one of the best hikes in Boulder. It can get a bit icy and slippery in the winter but it's still beautiful. Just wear good hiking shoes! read more

Boulder Flatirons - Parks Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

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Beautiful but over used. Some really unfriendly/cagey people mixed in with the friendly (for Boulder that is) folk on the weekend crowds - and at times there are crowds. Where in the heck did they take those photo's - on a mesa - the overlook before coming into Boulder - The actual Flat Irons are surrounded by neighborhoods and there is not much parking. There is an expensive so so restaurant that is small but fun - old fashion wood floors with a hint of turn of the century victorian - meals are so so and fairly small. Brunch and lunch only but dinner on weekends? Can be reserved for special occassions. Bathrooms are sometimes clean at the restaurant and sometimes (!) are not open. On the Fourth of July to see the Fire works over Boulder - come before 3pm to reserve a spot. Even that may be too late. Be prepared to hike on an incline, and walk a bit from your car or the bus. Oh and bring water! read more

Went to hike the Flatirons on a Wednesday morning and was very impressed. I would recommend going on a weekday morning if possible to hike the trails when they're much less crowded. Multiple trailheads allow access to the flatirons. We hiked the 1st/2nd flatiron trail. It's a fairly strenuous hike but you can find spots to stop and take a break while taking in the views. read more