East Mag Tour

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a nice alternative to running in Boulder, taking you to not-so-far-away Nederland. This 7.5-mile tour would make for a great few hours early morning or late afternoon when the deer are out and about. There are several rocky outcrops worth climbing to the top of for great views of the Indian Peaks, so keep an eye out for them. For the most part, the area sees very low traffic, and you'll have the place to yourself.

The trails here are in great condition. A couple of short, steep loose sections are present, but footing is solid with only a few sections where you have to pay attention to your stride.

From the parking area on Magnolia Road (approximately 2 miles East of 119), head West on Lollipop, around the low hill and enjoy the great views to the peaks. The trail soon enters a forest with a fun downhill section before dropping into a mixed Aspen grove and meadow.

After the initial meadow, the trail follows through a landscape that alternates from meadow to pine forest with many outcrops and peek-a-boo views to the peaks. Shortly thereafter, you'll encounter a couple of steep/loose sections that spice things up a bit.

The far section of the loop is very enjoyable running, with a large meadow at the far end. A steep return up the hill leads you back into a large Aspen grove, where the loop connects with Lollipop as it heads back to the trailhead.

Lots of Lodgepole and Ponderosa pine. Aspens line the open meadow areas.