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The best bang-for-your-buck view trail in Boulder County.


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Map Key

1.4

Miles

2.2

KM

67%

Runnable

8,882' 2,707 m

High

8,463' 2,579 m

Low

419' 128 m

Up

419' 128 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (7°)

19%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Views

Overview

A short drive from Boulder, easy parking, a short run, and a truly spectacular summit make this a deservedly popular destination. Relative to it's easy difficulty, there is no more rewarding summit in the county.

Runner Notes

This is a great addition to a longer run on the Switzerland Trail that connects at the start.

Description

From the large parking area and intersection with the Switzerland Trail, there are many trails going in all directions. This is the only one going east, and steeply uphill. Head up the rocky road and go past a gate that blocks cars. Simply wind around the mountain as the trees disappear and enjoy the views.

Explore the summit area with a bunch of "throne" rock seats built into the western hill and soak in the views!

Flora & Fauna

You can find wild Boulder Raspberries in season right on the side of the trail.

Shared By:

Nick Wilder

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 26 votes

#1

in Sugarloaf

#620

Overall
  4.3 from 26 votes
5 Star
50%
4 Star
31%
3 Star
15%
2 Star
4%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Sugarloaf

#128

in Colorado

#620

Overall
23 Views Last Month
8,038 Since Jun 21, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

15%
10%
70%
0%
5%
0%

Photos

Sugarloaf Mountain Trailhead sign and connector trail.
Jun 22, 2022 near Boulder, CO
Start of Switzerland Trail OHV road from Sugarloaf Mountain Trailhead.
Jun 22, 2022 near Boulder, CO
Experience impeccable views from Sugarloaf Mountain.
May 28, 2017 near Boulder, CO
One of the rock "thrones" at the summit.
Apr 28, 2016 near Boulder, CO
The aspen bud out in late May on Sugarloaf.
May 28, 2017 near Boulder, CO

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 29 days ago
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Check-Ins

Jun 18, 2022
Craig Van Ens
Get to the trailhead early. Just after 9 am on a Saturday and passed two groups on the trail. Rocky, loose, uneven footing throughout. Short and fun. 1.4mi — 0h 28m
Jun 8, 2020
Matt T
The mountain is more like a huge pile of scree and not that pleasant to run up, but the views are incredible.
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