Boulder
Overview
Situated at the base of the iconic Flatirons, Boulder is known for its outdoor activities and abundant sunshine. From hiking to running to climbing to biking to just soaking in the scenery, Boulder has something for everyone to enjoy. Conveniently located at the base of the mountains, the city itself is home to a thriving entrepreneurial community, some of the best restaurants in the region, the historic Pearl Street Mall, and the bustling campus of the University of Colorado. Additionally, the city boasts more than 45,000 acres of open space, more than 60 urban parks, and 300 miles of bike paths, making it a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. To learn more about what Boulder has to offer, visit the city's website.
Local Info
The town is not known, however, as a mountain biking destination despite the fact that it's home to the International Mountain Bicycling Association.
That said, there is some great mountain biking in and around Boulder. Some nearby highlights include Marshall Mesa - Doudy Draw Loops on the south side of town, Betasso - Canyon Loop and Benjamin Loop just up Boulder Canyon, and Walker Ranch up Flagstaff.
The town is also home to a phenomenal bike park: Valmont Bike Park. The park has something for EVERY type of rider, from strider bike trails to massive dirt jumps, and everything in between. Go there to work on skills or be in awe of other riders' skills.
There's also some excellent riding about 30 minutes north (Hall Ranch in Lyons), west (West Magnolia Tour in Nederland) or south (several great trails in the Golden area).
Visiting Tips
Camping & Lodging
The Boulder Adventure Lodge (A-Lodge for short) is only 5 minutes up Boulder Canyon from downtown Pearl Street. Strategically located for adventure enthusiasts, the A-Lodge provides easy access to Boulder's climbing, biking, fishing, hiking and trail running. The A-lodge includes an onsite slackline park, outdoor fire pits, two hot tubs, private rooms & suites, a hostel room, and even some camping options.
Boulder offers a variety of accomodations from hotels to bed and breakfasts, and a list of local lodging options can be found here.
Food & Drink
Outfitters, Tours, & Shuttles
- Sports Garage: These guys have been great supporters of MTB Project, and their service manager, Zack, has to be one of the best gearheads in Boulder! It's a great small volume, high touch shop.
- University Cycles
- Boulder Cyclesport
For the BEST mountain bike clinics and lessons you've ever had, check out
Other Activities
To learn more about rock climbing in Boulder, check out the Mountain Project page.
Maps & Guidebooks
Recommended Routes in Boulder - 16
MTB Project is built by riders like you. Add Your Recommended Routes
Betasso Preserve
7.1 mi 11.5 km • 768' Up 234.03 m Up • 759' Down 231.27 m Down
Walker Ranch
7.8 mi 12.6 km • 1,516' Up 462.02 m Up • 1,510' Down 460.32 m Down
Marshall Mesa - Doudy Draw Loops
10.4 mi 16.8 km • 921' Up 280.63 m Up • 923' Down 281.18 m Down
Spring Brook Loop
12.6 mi 20.2 km • 943' Up 287.5 m Up • 943' Down 287.41 m Down
Super Betasso
16.3 mi 26.2 km • 1,788' Up 545.03 m Up • 1,788' Down 544.87 m Down
Dirty Bismark
15.7 mi 25.2 km • 933' Up 284.36 m Up • 929' Down 283.21 m Down
Ride like a Moto
10.1 mi 16.3 km • 2,101' Up 640.44 m Up • 2,101' Down 640.24 m Down
Trails in Boulder - 142
MTB Project is built by riders like you. Add Your Trails
1.2
mi
1.9
km
#1Betasso Link Trail
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 86 | ||
3.3
mi
5.3
km
#2Canyon Loop
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 67 | ||
2.3
mi
3.7
km
#3Benjamin Loop
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 44 | ||
0.1
mi
0.2
km
#4Dual Slalom
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 10 | ||
0.1
mi
0.2
km
#5Corkscrew
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 12 | ||
0.1
mi
0.2
km
#6Large Slopestyle
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 9 | ||
2.2
mi
3.5
km
#7Doudy Draw
Superior, CO
|
Superior, CO | 37 | ||
0.1
mi
0.2
km
#8XL Slopestyle
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 6 | ||
1.1
mi
1.8
km
#9Bon Scott Trail #845
Niwot, CO
|
Niwot, CO | 33 | ||
0.1
mi
0.1
km
#10Medium Slopestyle
Boulder, CO
|
Boulder, CO | 7 |
Photos of Boulder - 360
MTB Project is built by riders like you. Add Your Photos