Leashed pups, meadow views, and a glimpse into Boulder’s winter sports history

Tucked within the iconic Chautauqua Park system lies a short, often-overlooked trail that delivers more than its modest distance suggests: the Ski Jump Trail. This connector path may be brief, but it offers one of the best meadow views of the Flatirons from a northerly perspective—and it’s a perfect pit stop for hikers and photographers alike.

Whether you’re a Boulder local or a first-time visitor, the Ski Jump Trail offers a slice of quiet beauty right near the bustling Chautauqua Trailhead. With dogs allowed on leash, this trail is also a favorite for furry companions eager to stretch their legs alongside their humans.

A Trail with History: From Skiers to Strollers

Despite its current popularity with casual hikers, the Ski Jump Trail owes its name to Boulder’s surprising connection to early 20th-century winter sports. Back in the 1910s and 1920s, skiing enthusiasts used to build rudimentary ski jumps in the hills above Chautauqua. The area where the trail now runs was once the landing zone for one of these jumps, making this unassuming path a living tribute to Boulder’s adventurous past.

Vintage thrill on the slopes: Skiers take flight at Chautauqua during Boulder’s ski jump era, circa 1949–1952. The area now known as the Ski Jump Trail once hosted daring winter sports like this.

At a time when skiing was still developing in the United States, Boulder’s Chautauqua slopes were part of the pioneering effort to bring alpine thrills to the Rockies. Though today there’s no sign of the actual jump, hikers can walk in the tracks of these early daredevils while enjoying the same stunning views that once thrilled audiences gathered in the snow.

Connecting to More Adventures

The Ski Jump Trail acts as a short but strategic connector, linking the well-trodden Chautauqua Trail with the Bluebell-Baird Trail, giving hikers several options to extend their adventure. Heading up from the Chautauqua Trail, you’ll cross an open meadow with panoramic Flatirons views—arguably one of the most photogenic angles in all of Boulder. On a clear day, you might even catch hang gliders dotting the skies above or mule deer grazing in the tall grass below.

Royal Arch Trail

From here, hikers can continue up toward the Bluebell Shelter or link into the longer Royal Arch Trail for a more intense challenge. But if you’re short on time or simply seeking serenity, the Ski Jump Trail offers just the right balance of accessibility and scenery.

Trail Map and Where to Park

To access the Ski Jump Trail, park at the Chautauqua Trailhead near 9th Street and Baseline Road. Parking can fill up quickly on weekends and sunny days, so arriving early or taking the free Park-to-Park shuttle in summer months is recommended.

A Perfect Boulder Snapshot

Whether you’re walking your pup, capturing golden hour over the meadow, or exploring the area’s rich outdoor history, the Ski Jump Trail is one of Boulder’s best-kept secrets. It’s short, scenic, and full of quiet charm—everything you want from a hidden gem trail.

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