via protrails.com

Nestled up Flagstaff Road just a few miles outside Boulder, you will find a collection of three different trails. The longest and one of the most popular is Walker Ranch Loop. Nearly 8 miles long, this moderate trail has a total elevation gain of about 1700′ and is popular among hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers alike. If you find that you want to spend even longer in this beautiful area long after you finish your hike, there are picnic tables located at each of the three area trailheads. Pack up a simple picnic or grab a sandwich on your way out of town and enjoy your lunch in the warm sunshine while you cool down from your adventure.

Once a homestead, the original buildings at Walker Ranch date back to the 1880s and are still standing, and you will also see the remnants of the 2000 wildfire that burned more than 1,000 acres and lasted for five days before it was contained. The beautiful scenery and open fields will make it clear why the area was once such a large and successful ranch over a century ago.

The trail can be pretty popular, but this time of year is a bit better than in the heart of the summer. Still, getting here early is a good idea and with the temperatures expected to be nice and warm yet again this weekend, don’t forget to apply your sunscreen!

What to Bring:

• hiking boots
• sunglasses
• water
• camera
• dog (this is a popular trail for dogs!)
• picnic
• sunscreen

Getting There:

Follow Flagstaff Road for a little over 7 miles. You will see several small parking lots for the various trailheads in this area. The trails are well marked.

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