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Marshall Mesa Trailhead: A Prairie Gateway

4.7 (474)

Explore prairie trails with Flatirons views at Marshall Mesa Trailhead, a historic coal mining site turned outdoor haven in Boulder, Colorado.

Marshall Mesa Trailhead offers access to a network of trails through a diverse prairie ecosystem with historical coal mining remnants and stunning views of the Flatirons. Open from 5 am to 11 pm daily, it's a popular spot for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities.

A brief summary to Marshall Mesa Trailhead

  • Monday 5 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-11 pm
  • Friday 5 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Check trail conditions before you go, as the area is subject to closures when muddy.
  • Bring water, especially if hiking with dogs, though a canal provides water in summer.
  • Be aware that parking is available with a fee, and cars not registered in Boulder County must pay a $5 day use fee.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowded parking conditions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Boulder, take Highway 93 south to the intersection with Marshall Road/Eldorado Springs Drive (Highway 170). Turn east onto Marshall Road. The trailhead is located a short distance east of the intersection on the north side of the road. Parking is available at the trailhead with a fee. Parking fees apply; check OSMP website for current rates.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Boulder, the Jump bus (Route 208) goes towards the South Boulder Rec Center. Get off at Eldorado Springs Dr & Marshall Rd. Walk south on Eldorado Springs Dr for about 0.5 miles to the trailhead. The Eldo Shuttle provides free weekend and holiday service from various locations in Boulder and Superior to Marshall Mesa from late May to mid-September. Check the schedule for specific dates and times. The Eldo Shuttle stops at CO 170 & CO 93, where you can access Marshall Mesa Trailhead.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Broadway and Baseline Rd in Boulder, follow Baseline Rd west for about 1.5 miles until you reach Eldorado Springs Dr. Turn left onto Eldorado Springs Dr and walk for about 1 mile. The Marshall Mesa Trailhead will be on your right.

Discover more about Marshall Mesa Trailhead

Marshall Mesa Trailhead serves as a portal to a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Situated just east of the intersection of Highway 93 and Marshall Road, this trailhead provides access to Marshall Mesa and the Greenbelt Plateau area trails. Once the site of bustling coal mining activity from the 1860s to the 1930s, the area now offers a tranquil escape with expansive views of the Front Range. The landscape is characterized by a rare remnant of dry tall-grass prairie, where wildflowers bloom throughout the seasons. The area's geology is also noteworthy, with rippled rocks revealing evidence of ancient seas and fractures resulting from the uplift of the Rocky Mountains. Interpretive kiosks along the trails recount the history of the once-thriving town of Marshall, which provided coal for heating, railroads, and steam engines. Today, visitors can explore a network of trails suitable for various activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails connect to a larger circuit that extends through Superior and back to Marshall Mesa. Keep an eye out for birds of prey, coyotes, and mule deer that frequent the area. The trailhead is open from 5 am to 11 pm daily and provides restrooms, picnic tables, and parking. Note that the area may be closed when conditions are too muddy.

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