Conquer the Heights: Boulder, Colorado’s Most Advanced Hiking Trails for Experts

Boulder, Colorado, is famous for its outdoor lifestyle, and while many trails welcome beginners, the city also offers some of the most demanding hikes in the Front Range. These trails test even the strongest hikers with steep climbs, rocky scrambles, and serious elevation gain. Here are five expert-level hikes around Boulder that will push your limits and reward you with unforgettable views.

1. Bear Peak via Fern Canyon

This hike is considered one of the toughest in Boulder. The out-and-back trek stretches about 7.7 miles and climbs nearly 2,800 feet in elevation. The Fern Canyon section is relentlessly steep, often feeling like a natural stairmaster surrounded by shady forest. Once you reach the top of Bear Peak, you’re greeted with expansive views of Boulder, the plains, and the Continental Divide. It’s a brutal climb, but the payoff is more than worth it.

AboutBoulder columnist Brenna Bray, PhD scrambles atop Bear Peak while traversing the “Boulder Skyline” “out-and-back”

2. Green Mountain via Gregory Canyon

Green Mountain is popular, but when tackled via Gregory Canyon and Ranger Trail, it transforms into a serious challenge. The hike is roughly 5.4 miles with 2,300–2,400 feet of elevation gain packed into a relatively short distance. The trail is rocky and uneven, with tight switchbacks and steep ascents that keep your legs burning. The summit offers panoramic views of the Flatirons and Boulder Valley, making this difficult climb a rewarding one.

Green Mountain

3. South Boulder Peak

At 8,549 feet, South Boulder Peak is Boulder’s highest summit—and one of its most demanding. Most hikers reach it by first climbing Bear Peak, which means your legs are already working hard before you even approach the final push. The route covers about 7.4 to 8.7 miles depending on the approach, with close to 2,900 feet of elevation gain. Rugged terrain and exposure near the top make this a true test for experienced hikers.

4. Royal Arch Trail

While the Royal Arch Trail is sometimes listed as intermediate, most hikers agree it belongs in the advanced category. The route is only about 3 to 4 miles, but the elevation gain of around 1,500 feet makes it short, steep, and intense. Expect stair-like rock sections, narrow switchbacks, and a challenging final scramble. At the end, the massive sandstone arch frames a spectacular view of Boulder Valley—a reward that makes the climb worthwhile.

The Royal Arch

5. Shadow Canyon to South Boulder Peak

Shadow Canyon is a grind from the start. The route climbs steeply through a gulch filled with rocks, boulders, and tight turns before topping out at the saddle between South Boulder Peak and Bear Peak. From there, the final push to South Boulder Peak involves technical scrambles and rugged footing. The full hike runs about 8 miles with roughly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, making it one of the most punishing—and rewarding—expert hikes in Boulder.

Final Thoughts

These five trails aren’t for casual hikers. They demand preparation, endurance, and respect for the rugged terrain. Each one offers a different flavor of challenge, from the relentless stair-steps of Fern Canyon to the boulder scrambles of Shadow Canyon. For experienced adventurers, conquering these hikes is the ultimate way to experience Boulder’s wild side.

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