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Flagstaff Mountain: Boulder's Scenic Summit

Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures atop Flagstaff Mountain, a Boulder landmark with hiking trails and a scenic summit.

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Flagstaff Mountain, a prominent peak in Boulder Mountain Park, offers stunning views of Boulder, the Rocky Mountains, and the Great Plains. Accessible by car or hiking trails, it's a popular destination for outdoor recreation and scenic vistas.

A brief summary to Flagstaff Mountain

  • Ute, Boulder, Colorado, 80302, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and the mountain is a popular destination.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike, as there is no potable water available at the summit.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • Be aware of wildlife, such as bears and mountain lions, and take necessary precautions.
  • Consider hiking up from Chautauqua to avoid parking hassles and enjoy the scenery.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Boulder, head west on Baseline Road. Baseline Road will turn into Flagstaff Road as you ascend the mountain. Follow Flagstaff Road to the summit. Be aware that the road is winding and can be closed in winter due to snow and ice. Parking is available in designated lots, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Parking fees may apply. Note that parking is prohibited between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. without a permit.

  • Walking

    From the Chautauqua Trailhead, follow the Flagstaff Trail. The trail is a steep, 2.1-mile climb to the summit. The Gregory Canyon Trail also provides access to Flagstaff Mountain trails. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. The hike will take you in and out of the forest of big pines, opening up frequently for spectacular views of Boulder and the Chautauqua area.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the base of Flagstaff Mountain. From downtown Boulder Station, it's approximately a 75-minute walk to the mountain. Bus lines that stop nearby include the 205 and HOP. From the bus stop, follow Baseline Road west, which turns into Flagstaff Road, to reach the mountain.

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Discover more about Flagstaff Mountain

Flagstaff Mountain, rising to 6,983 feet (2,128 m), is a beloved landmark on the eastern flank of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Located in Boulder Mountain Park, it provides panoramic views encompassing the city of Boulder, the vast Metropolitan Denver area, and the majestic surrounding mountains. The mountain is easily accessible, making it a favorite for both tourists and locals. Visitors can drive to the summit via Flagstaff Road, a scenic route that winds its way up the mountainside. For those seeking a more active experience, a network of hiking and biking trails crisscrosses the mountain, offering varying levels of difficulty. The Flagstaff Trail, for example, is a steep, 2.1-mile path with switchbacks. At the summit, amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, and the Flagstaff Summit Nature Center, where visitors can learn about the area's natural history. The Sunrise Amphitheater, built in the 1930s, hosts various events, including weddings and Easter sunrise services. Don't miss Writer's Point for westward views towards the Indian Peaks and Rocky Mountain National Park. Geologically, Flagstaff Mountain showcases the Boulder Creek Granodiorite, a 1.7-billion-year-old igneous rock. This ancient rock formed deep beneath the Earth's surface and was later exposed through uplift and erosion. The nearby Flatirons are part of the Fountain Formation, sedimentary rocks formed from the erosion of the Ancestral Rocky Mountains. Since 1947, the Flagstaff Star has been lit atop the mountain during the holiday season. It has become a symbol of hope and unity for the Boulder community.

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