At the summit of Bear Peak — Elevation 8,459 ft. One of Boulder’s toughest climbs with unforgettable views.

Looking for the hardest hike in Boulder, Colorado? Say hello to Bear Peak via Fern Canyon—a true test of endurance and determination. Towering at 8,459 feet, Bear Peak delivers one of the most intense climbs in the Front Range, complete with breathtaking views and a summit that will leave you in awe.

What Makes This Hike So Hard?The Fern Canyon route is not for the faint of heart. The trail is about 5.7 miles round-trip, but don’t let the mileage fool you—it gains over 2,700 feet in elevation, most of it in just a couple of miles. The trail begins at the NCAR Trailhead, starting out easy, but once you enter Fern Canyon, the real workout begins.

Expect a relentless uphill battle filled with:

• Rocky terrain

• Tree roots

• Tight switchbacks

• Narrow trail sections

• Occasional scrambling

Fern Canyon is shaded and beautiful, but it’s also steep, technical, and unrelenting. It’s considered one of the most challenging trails in Boulder for a reason.

The Reward: A Summit Like No Other

After the grind, the summit of Bear Peak offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Boulder County. From the top, you’ll see:

• The Flatirons up close and personal

• Boulder’s cityscape far below

• The Continental Divide to the west

• The sweeping plains stretching eastward

There’s nothing quite like standing on the exposed rock summit with the wind in your face and miles of Colorado beauty all around you.

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

Pro Tips Before You Go

• Start early – especially in warmer months to beat the heat

• Bring water – there are no water sources on the trail

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes – good grip is essential

• Trekking poles – helpful on both the ascent and descent

• Check weather – storms can roll in quickly at high elevations

• Dog-friendly – but only for experienced trail dogs

Fun Facts About Bear Peak

• Second-highest summit in Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks system

• The peak is visible from much of Boulder and is often mistaken for nearby South Boulder Peak

• Fern Canyon gets its name from the lush ferns that thrive in its shaded microclimate

• The trail is open year-round but can be icy in winter—bring microspikes if needed

Finding the Trailhead: Getting to Bear Peak via NCAR

To access the Bear Peak via Fern Canyon Trailhead in Boulder, begin at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Trailhead. From downtown Boulder, drive south on Broadway (State Highway 93) and turn right onto Table Mesa Drive. Follow Table Mesa Drive westward as it ascends to the NCAR facility, where ample parking is available. The trailhead is located near the NCAR building, providing direct access to the network of trails leading to Bear Peak via Fern Canyon. This route offers a convenient starting point for hikers aiming to summit Bear Peak. ​

The trail begins behind NCAR, offering a scenic gateway to the challenging ascent up Fern Canyon to Bear Peak.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to push your limits and earn one of the best views in Boulder, Bear Peak via Fern Canyon is the trail for you. It’s not just a hike—it’s a challenge, an experience, and a summit you’ll never forget.

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