Name: Boulder Lake Trail
Rating: 3.6

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Features Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The trailhead has been moved from Boulder Creek Rd or the Boulder Creek Trail to Rock Creek Rd and Gore Range trailhead as of summer 2019. I received a warning ticket by Summit County Sheriff for parking at the old Boulder Creek Trailhead off Hwy 9. Plus it is a long, exhausting 3.5-mile run up the gravel road from Hwy 9 and another seven miles from the green gate to Boulder Lake. I would recommend this only as a day run in the fall as Boulder Creek Trail goes through the aspens.

Need to Know

You have to park at the lot off Route 9 and walk up the gravel road for roughly 2.5 miles before hitting the trailhead.

In addition, the bridge across the largest stream you'll encounter about a mile from the top has had a tree fall on it. This has caused the bridge to dip into the water by about 3 inches and you'll need to step over the tree. It is still possible to cross but be sure of your footing.

Finally, bring lots of bug spray, the entire trail runs parallel to some form of water and the mosquitoes were never-ending.

Runner Notes

After lower Boulder Lake, the trail is not well worn and you can lose it quickly.
Parking at the beginning of this trail is on private property. You're better off cutting over from Rock Creek Trailhead.

Description

The trail winds through the forest until a junction with Gore Range Trail. Continue straight past the junction and continuing climbing until you reach lower boulder lake. You can continue on past lower boulder lake, but the trail is not as well defined.