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Boulder Canyon Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 787 Google reviews · Running trail in Boulder, Colorado · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Boulder Canyon Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic trail, paved and gravel, for biking and walking, with creek views.
What runners say about Boulder Canyon Trail
“Wide and well-maintained trail with a lot cycling while it is also good for running or hiking, be aware thr downhill bikers, their speeds are pretty fast!”
“Beautiful canyon hike - I got dropped off further up the canyon (by the intersection with Four Mile Rd) which I would recommend.”
“Despite being near a busy road, the trail is a relatively calm oasis.”
“Very good easy hike with a walking path.”
Husband, doggo and I enjoyed our walk along this trail this morning. The first parking lot (on either side of the road) was packed, but we were lucky enough to snag the last spot. The trail seems to be rather lengthy, we walked ~2 miles North--the trail was largely flat gravel, sometimes paved. Very accessible!
Boulder Canyon Trail is a breathtaking escape for outdoor lovers. This scenic stream-side trail is ideal for biking, walking, or running. Despite being near a busy main road, the creek’s gentle sounds create a tranquil atmosphere. The trail is maintained, transitioning from smooth gravel to a broad, paved sidewalk.
Beautiful canyon hike - I got dropped off further up the canyon (by the intersection with Four Mile Rd) which I would recommend. Further up the canyon there was a lot less foot traffic, so it was nice hiking. The trail is really well maintained. Smooth gravel and eventually a paved wide sidewalk.
This beautiful stream-side trail is perfect for just about any activity from biking to birdwatching and walking and running. Despite being near a busy road, the trail is a relatively calm oasis. The creek helps to mask the sound of traffic noise.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful canyon hike - I got dropped off further up the canyon (by the intersection with Four Mile Rd) which I would recommend.”
“The trail seems to be rather lengthy, we walked ~2 miles North--the trail was largely flat gravel, sometimes paved.”
“The trail seems to be rather lengthy, we walked ~2 miles North--the trail was largely flat gravel, sometimes paved.”
“The bridges make it easy to cross the stream from multiple parking locations and there are bathrooms that are easily accessed at two points in the trail.”
“The bridges make it easy to cross the stream from multiple parking locations and there are bathrooms that are easily accessed at two points in the trail.”
“Most trail users are respectful of others, but some bikers go faster downhill than I am comfortable with, so I'd recommend keeping kids/dogs close around corners.”
“The trail seems to be rather lengthy, we walked ~2 miles North--the trail was largely flat gravel, sometimes paved.”
“The elevation was slow and gradual for a slightly easier time while still getting alot of canyon views.”
“Great stroller-friendly trail with beautiful views.”
Plan your run at Boulder Canyon Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitebouldercolorado.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Boulder
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Centennial Trailhead
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Gregory Canyon Trailhead
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Wonderland Lake
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