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Best river hikes in Boulder County
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Best river hikes in Boulder County

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Boulder County.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra difficult

Devils Thumb to King Lake Loop

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.5 (6) · 24.6 km · Est. 6 hrs 35 min

2

Medium

Walker Ranch Loop - Eldorado Canyon State Park

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.7 (6) · 12.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 15 min

3

Difficult

Deadman Gulch Walk

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.4 (10) · 4.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 33 min

4

Medium

Long Lake and Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.4 (10) · 13.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 43 min

5

Medium

RattleSnake Gulch Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.4 (13) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 20 min

6

Easy

Baseline Reservoir - South Boulder Creek Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.3 (18) · 4.0 km · Est. 50 min

7

Easy

FlatIrons Vista Loop Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.7 (10) · 5.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 17 min

8

Easy

South Boulder Creek Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.3 (3) · 10.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 15 min

9

Medium

RattleSnake Gulch Loop Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 5.0 (2) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 42 min

10

Difficult

Nebel Horn, Bear Peak, Bear Canyon Loop via Mesa Trail

Boulder County, Colorado · star 4.4 (9) · 13.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 4 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for river hikes in Boulder County

Roberto Delgado avatar

Devils Thumb to King Lake Loop

Roberto Delgado · reviewed over 6 years ago

star star star star star

Rev. Luann Sawayn avatar

Walker Ranch Loop - Eldorado Canyon State Park

WildTrailstalker34 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Raymundo McDermott avatar

Deadman Gulch Walk

TrailmateChaser25 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Jacqui Beier avatar

Long Lake and Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass Trail

SequoiaTrailguardian98 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Sj Wallace avatar

RattleSnake Gulch Trail

CriticalSJ · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

I took the Loop trail once I got to the Crags Hotel site. It was a steep trek for me. Slow and steady but really pretty surroundings. I like this as a fall or early morning hike when it’s not so hot.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Boulder County

What is the climate like for hiking in Colorado?

In Colorado, a hiker's paradise, weather conditions can vary greatly by season and elevation. Generally, the state experiences a sunny, dry climate, making it a year-round hiking destination.
Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather and is typically the best time to tackle high-altitude hikes in the Rocky Mountains, as trails are mostly free from snow. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early starts are recommended.
Winter (December through February) brings snow and cold temperatures, especially at high elevations, making some trails inaccessible. But for the prepared adventurer, winter hiking or snowshoeing can offer a unique and serene experience. Always check local weather conditions before setting out. For trail updates and weather info, visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://climate.colorado.gov/]

Do I need a permit to hike in Colorado?

While most Colorado trails are free, some popular areas, like Hanging Lake or Rocky Mountain National Park, require permits or reservations to manage visitor impact. Permits can typically be obtained online in advance. Contact the relevant park management or Colorado Parks & Wildlife for specifics. [Link: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm]

Is wild camping allowed in Colorado?

Wild camping, often referred to as dispersed camping, is generally permitted in Colorado's National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas, unless otherwise posted. Hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles and fire restrictions. Always check specific regulations with the managing agency. [Link: www.fs.usda.gov]

Are there mountain rescue services in Colorado?

In the event of a hiking emergency in Colorado, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) coordinates rescue efforts in the mountainous terrains. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a charged cell phone. [Link: https://coloradosar.org/]

Are there dangerous plants in Colorado?

Colorado's diverse landscapes offer a variety of flora. Alpine regions feature tundra wildflowers, while lower elevations host pine forests and aspen groves. Hikers should respect the delicate ecosystem and avoid trampling wildflowers. The Colorado Native Plant Society website provides comprehensive information. [Link: www.conps.org]

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Colorado?

Colorado's trails reveal an array of wildlife, from elk and deer in the Rocky Mountain National Park to marmots and pikas in alpine areas. Be bear-aware, particularly in forested areas, and mindful of smaller critters like ticks and mosquitoes. For wildlife safety tips, refer to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://dnr.colorado.gov/divisions/colorado-parks-wildlife]

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