Desperately needing to get outdoors I made my way up to Boulder this morning to give this hike a try. Very steep in areas, but once you reach the top it's well worth it. Figure on an hour or so to the top depending on your ability. Less of course if you like to run trails. I will never begin to understand trail runners! They freak me out just a little. This trail is crowded on weekends as I got to experience today, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Plenty of kids and pets along the way, many taking easier trails to the summit, but to be out in nature in never a bad thing. This trail was just what I needed today, not too long and close enough to home without having to worry about a long drive back afterwards. The views from the summit overlooking Boulder are beautiful. Make sure to take your sunscreen and some water, though I saw many without. Better to be safe than sorry. I'm happy to report no bears or mountain lions were seen on this day! read more

All levels are welcome*!! This is a difficult hike, so wear good shoes and bring plenty of water. If you have bad knees or hips, bring walking sticks. As with any hike, don't stop on the way up (or take small breaks) and pack a protein snack to eat at the top. Also, since there are narrow spots on the trail, remember, those trekking UP have right of way! Happy hiking! read more

Plugging "Mount Sanitas" into google maps led me to one place but "Mount Sanitas Trailhead" gets you to another place. I suppose it depends whether you plan to do the 3.1mi loop trail or just an out and back through the valley. "Mount Sanitas" gets you to the valley whereas Mount Sanitas Trailhead takes you to the start of the popular 3.1mi loop trail. My group did the 3.1mi loop trail, parking at Mapleton & 4th. Street parking was easy enough, and we were there 12pm on a Saturday. You go up the Ridge Trail, summit, then return on East Ridge Trail and Mt Sanitas Valley Trail. Lots of people on the trail. There's not a lot of signage, but it's unlikely you'll get lost. This trail kicked my group's butt - someone told us it was a great hike that people often do as a morning walk. A third of the way in, I thought we had somehow ended up on the wrong hike. It starts off with about a mile of constant incline, practically like going up a rock staircase. After you summit and take in the great views, there's some steep downhill (but with good footholds) for a bit until you reach a relatively flat valley area. Because of the constant incline at the beginning, I would recommend starting at Mapleton/4th as it'll be easier on the knees going up the Ridge Trail vs. coming down. Bring a ton of water. There was little shade, especially in the uphill. Felt accomplished afterwards read more

Gorgeous views with a healthy workout. This trail has several spots along the 3-mile loop to rest on the rocks and view the city of Boulder to the east or the mountains to the west. It wasn't too crowded on a Saturday in mid-November at 3pm, but I can see how this place could get packed. read more

See all

Five Star Trail. Mt. Sanitas is Boulder's best trail if your looking for a condensed experience of everything this hill-side city has to offer in terms of natural beauty as well as a great workout - intensity is dependent on your pace, allowing for a strenuous hillside blast for the most vigorous athletes, or a relaxing accent for couch dwellers. This town is loaded with beautiful trails, and is known for those trails: the flatirons are immensely packed, being the go to spot for those visiting boulder on a mission for a nature fix, especially on weekdays, yet Sanitas takes a little familiarity to know about, allowing for a much less crowded hiking route. Still, you will most likely come across a few fellow hikers, the trail offers a much more scenic and naturesome experience than the southern alternative (If you really want some private exploring, check out sunshine canyon). How to get there and park: The trail is located on 4th and Mapleton, just take Mapleton west until you reach the Hospital and it is just passed on your right. (Because of construction, one of the trail heads are closed, and you have to take a detour indicated by signs. There is a bike rack for cyclists, and parking along the north side of Mapleton (I have noticed people parking on the south side, but a sign clearly indicates that is prohibited. Sketchy), as well as in the Hospital parking lot. If you venture a little further west down Mapleton, passed the trail head,there is a parking lot with easy access to Sanitas, Red Rocks, and Sunshine Canyon, although it is usually full. The trail itself is a loop, or rather and oval, with the west long side of the oval progressing North up a mountain climaxing at over 6863 ft, then a quick descent bring you back down to head south along the east side of the trail. Because of Construction the primary east side of the decent is closed, so the only option, the better option anyway is the Dakota ridge, which progress parallel to the typical gravel trail, heading south, but is strewn through a thin forest with beautiful scenery and views. You can't help but appreciate the beauty, and if you're running its hard not to feel a little badass, avoiding rocks and potential ankle breaking zigs. You can go about the loop any way. I typically preferring running up the mountain to the summit then back down, starting from the southern end. The View: From the top you can see all the way to Lyons, maybe even Fort Collins to the South, to the West there is Sunshine Canyon and rolling hills of forests (Still have yet to witness a sunset from there, I'm sure it would be amazing), the East reveals Boulders Flatland planes while is blends in with the Northern view of Denver, The Rocky Flats, and back to the Flatirons. An unforgettable sight and feeling of accomplishment once reach the accent. Don't forget to bring your water. Time yourself and post about it, let's see how you do. read more

What a great little jaunt just a stone's throw from Pearl Street in Boulder. You can do this trail as an out and back or as a loop. I suggest you start by going left at the fork and taking the western trail up the back of the ridge. There are great views of the forest and the peaks beyond when you get high enough. The trail is steep, but the trailbuilders did a great job of placing rock steps right where you seem to need them. There are places where you will have to scurry across boulders and the trail all but disappears. There are several great places to catch your breath, and you can easily have a view of both the front rage and the mountains. The summit is a beautiful, if windy, place to have a snack or light lunch. To complete the loop, head down the mountain to the wide path that goes along the bottom of the valley to the east of Mt. Sanitas. This part of the walk is not covered at all, and I imagine it can get very hot in the summer. All told this is about a two hour hike, although you can complete it much faster--a lot of people running the trail--or take your time--like the snail in the Yankees windbreaker. Try out this hike if you do not have all day to commit to a longer adventure. Also, this route is just long enough to make you feel like you earned that great meal awaiting you somewhere along Pearl Street. read more

Fun trail.... Just lost my wedding ring on it though (anyone who finds a silver ring, please let me know!)

I've done this trail the easy way (from the first parking lot, right) and now the hard way - from the second parking lot. It's a good lung burner, and the view at the top are amazing! Definitely a great hike! The parking lot fills up quickly. And there is full sun for most of the trail. read more

Holy canoli this hike is... beautiful, HARD, but very worthwhile. Don't be deceived when you keep thinking you're at the top but still have 15 more minutes. The whole thing is a loop which my friend and I did not realize when we started, but we had a blast. The view is amazing and sitting at the top feels absolutely amazing. I've only hiked the Flat Irons, so this was a lovely new change in pace for me. It's harder than the Flat Irons, and I'd say even a little longer but if you're looking for something challenging then Mt. Sanitas is your place to be! This hike is STRAIGHT UP HILL. And people were running up it!! But if you bring your headphones, some good music, and a friend, you'll be glad to conquer Sanitas! read more

My friend, hubby, and I hiked about 2.5 miles for about 2 hours. There are numerous paths to take- all I remember is we followed right most of the way. It was 90 degrees and sunny so it was really hot and there weren't too many shady spots! There are lots of scary looking thorny trees everywhere. There were a bunch of trees that were blackened at the trunk and looked burnt. There was also a little area that looked like death island with power wires hanging everywhere and dead trees. Other than that... the hike was nice! There was a nice path to follow that went through some water. There were pretty quartz rocks laying around a beautiful view of Boulder. I will be back to try some other trails in the future. read more

Mt. Sanitas is a great hike! It is pretty steep all the way up, so get ready to get your booty into shape. To get there, take Mapleton Road west from Broadway. Parking is on the left, trail head on the right. Awesome views of Boulder are a great excuse to catch your breath. Also, there are a few rocks at the top of the trail where you can sit and socialize with other fellow hikers. If you don't mind being social on trails, this one is challenging and fun! read more

If you're in the Boulder area looking for a quick, yet satisfying hike, look no further. This one has easily scalable terrain so don't worry about it being too challenging. It's about an hour and a half to the top. The top carries breathtaking views, especially if you're not native to the mountain area. It's certainly a great quick escape from the city of Boulder. read more

Beautiful hike...or climb if you will. Bring your ready to work legs and lots of water. Side hike to get from parking lot A to B was a delightful bonus. We managed to catch a family of deer, some beautiful birds and animal tracks. A workout of the best kind! read more

Mt. Sanitas Trail - Hiking Near Me - Boulder, Colorado

See all

Okay doing this first thing in the morning when the temps are cooler makes for a much more pleasant hike. I want to do this once or twice a week now... If only I could convince my boyfriend to join me. read more

It's a good hike. Not too strenuous but steep enough to get the blood pumping. There are also several different ways to get to the top so you have lots of opportunities to explore the trails. Here's a recommendation: Yesterday I brought my pack in with me, put in some trail mix, beef jerky and four Leinenkugels Summer Shandy cans. At the top I leaned back against a rock sipped a beer and ate some beef jerky. I brought four beers to have the option of offering a beer to any strangers I might meet at the top. It ended up being mostly parents with their kids up there so I carried the one empty can and three full ones back down with me, but I figured it could be nice to have the ability to share a beer along with the views. You can meet some interesting strangers on the mountains that way. read more

I love this hike. It's gorgeous, challenging, and worthwhile. You can make it a loop so you don't have to go down the same way you went up. There are lots of hikes to choose from in Boulder. And what this one lacks in distance it makes up for in challenging inclines and gorgeous views. This is a well-traveled trail, so going alone wouldn't be a problem. Get there early for a spot in the lot. read more

Oh Boulder, you and your wonderful trails just on the west side of town. Mt. Sanitas is an awesome spot that can serve many needs. Once I did the whole loop to the peak and we did the steeper part going up to the left, and then the slow way back down. I thought it was a good way to go! Another time I went back and we did the nice gradual slope through the middle which was perfect for a easy out-and-back walk with the dog. read more

This is a challenging trail...tough on your knees! A little too crowded for me. But it was a great workout!

We went here in early April, so of course the Colorado weather was unpredictable. Ended up snowing on us a little at the top. Regardless of the weather, the trail was packed. And I mean PACKED. I don't think I've ever hiked a trail so crowded other than Red Rocks Trading post trail. The real downfall was the public restroom at the start of the trail. Hands down the worst bathroom I've ever had to visit. Highly suggest finding somewhere to pee on pearl street instead of risking the contamination of that black hole of bathroom. read more

Mt Sanitas is great but if you want the right directions to get to it, don't use Apple Maps. Use Google Maps. Apple takes you everywhere but Mt. Sanitas. read more

First day in Boulder frfom a sea level elevation, This was a huge challenge but was an amazing way to start my trip. Going up was super steep with lots of stairs (and lots of water breaks). coming down was a forgiving gentle slope. Took less than two hours. Beautiful view of the Rockies from the top! read more

Nice hike with great views. Was told it was going to be super intense, but ended up being pretty medium. Took us about 2-3 hours all said and done. read more

Fabulous fitness trail right on the edge of town. Difficulty level - um yeah this thing is hard! Love seeing the locals (including kids) whipping right up and down this thing while us flatlanders huff and puff our way up and back down. It was a beautiful way to spend a few last hours in CO before heading to the airport. Great workout. Great scenery without too much vertigo. Plenty of rock scrambling. read more

A gorgeous hike! I've gone twice now, once straight up the side and once around the valley. Both ways offer gorgeous views all along the trail. We took my hyperactive puppy and not only did she love it, she slept the rest of the afternoon :) Good for beginners although straight up the mountain is a little strenuous. We also saw a black bear cub but no mama. The cub kept to himself. read more

Lovely views so close to Boulder. Lots of birds in the valley (Steller's jays, magpies, robins, chickadees) and eagles and hawks soaring above. Trail is well kept. Rugged but moderate. read more

Great place for a workout, hiking to the top. The west side trail is the most interesting, and most popular m

Epic views and a great work out, but definitely not for the faint of heart/out of shape. I didn't think I was out of shape until I came to Mt. Sanitas. I did make it to the top, but my body hated me for days after. Very busy on weekends, with fewer people during the week days (to be expected). Limited parking lot so come early or battle it out for street parking. Right now they are doing road construction - something to be aware of! read more

An amazing trail with great views. Perfect hike if you have a few hours to spare and are in the Boulder area. Easily done with a good pair of hiking or running shoes. read more

This is a great hike with beautiful views on both sides of a ridge hike. Pasture on one side, forest on the other. You keep thinking you are at the top, but there's more to go. Red boulders and pine trees. Our 7 year old did it, but our 59 year old aunt had a hard time. Some passerbys were running it! Bring water though. read more

See all

I loved it. But don't be deceived, it's hard. My boyfriend is now completely uninterested in doing a 14er because of this hike. However, it is beautiful and super rewarding at the top. There were people of all levels doing the hike and I enjoyed the fact that there were always people in sight. Especially since there were signs that this trails has sighted bears. Plan for about 2 hours and bring water and sunscreen isn't bad to have either. I will do it again when I come back. read more

Sanitas gives you a lot of bang for your buck. The trail is steep on the way up and has great views of the Prairie on one side and the high country on the other. It's a great trail for visitors. Only 3 miles total (end hiking down the valley trail) read more

Get ready to shred the quads and hammies and take an exhilarating hike to the top! Most of the trail is steep so a moderate to difficult rating is right on. Lots of rocks and wooden steps to tackle. Expansive views as you make your way up narrow switchbacks to the top. Lots of dogs on the trails with their owners. I have to add...the dogs were all well behaved. I smiled when I passed a yellow lab trudging up the trail carrying a huge stick in her mouth. She was bound and determined to carry that baby all the way to the top! There are chalk marks in many of the sides of the rocks where people enjoy a climb along the hike. A spectacular view of Boulder and the surrounding area from the top. Watch your footing on the way down. Definitely not recommended for people with knee problems! Moderate traffic on the trail but nothing like the crowds on Chataqua trails like we saw. Park slightly past Mapleton and 4th Ave. to access the trailhead. read more

A great hike for exercise and beautiful views. Glad to see commenters now generally consider this a difficult hike, as there are several sections that you literally climb boulders. There are also several very steep sections. My 8 and 5 year old children did the entire loop, but were pretty tired by the end. We passed other children who were pretty unhappy with the experience, so only take your children if they are ready for a long, rough hike. Otherwise expect long periods of complaining. We had a lot of fun. Just don't believe the people who say this is an easy hike. They're lying. read more