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Summary: Very popular trail close to downtown Boulder. A classic trail for the area. Take the loop either way, each way is a good workout. The valley is fairly flat with lots of dogs around. Views from the ridges are astounding in all directions. Horses are allowed on trails, but I would not recommend them on the steep ridge trails. Trailhead: In Boulder, take Broadway to Mapleton and turn west. This intersection is just north of downtown. Go about 5 blocks, just past the hospital, there will be the parking area on the north and one further west on the south side. The trailhead is on the north side of the road. (Lat:40.02063 Lon:-105.296) Trail Guides for Mt. Sanitas Loop: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, Ranger Contact: City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks Department, 303-441-3440. Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Dennis Camell, who has posted 21 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 3 Submit your own review Just got back and it's well worth it. We took the Mt. Sanitas trail to the left to reach the summit and then basically made our own trail on the way back down (found some caves and did some bouldering) Only complaints were the crowds and the lack of parking. I hiked this trail yesterday with my friends. It is a very demanding hike (maybe I am out of shape). But a very good hike none the less. I'm glad I did the hike. We decided to take the East Ridge trail from the summit. I wish the east ridge trail was marked better. We got lost and ended up on a trail we thought was the east ridge trail. It was not and was very difficult because of the icy conditions. But we made it back safely. Well, several years since I submitted this and lots of good comments. I do the loop counter-clockwise, up the east side and enjoy the downhill stretch. I will agree that this is probably a little more than just moderate but it is fun. See you on the trails. Great hike, great work-out! I felt a little out of shape to handle the steepness, but made it to the summit with a few quick stops. Without reading all the postings on this website first, I would've underestimated this 1.3 mile hike up. So I didn't take the East Ridge Trail on the way down, although I saw a runner who jogged down the east ridge, and she made it look so easy. I'll definitely would hike up again sometime soon and would like to try taking the east ridge on the way down next time. This hike is one of my favorites and kicks my butt every time. Take more water than you think you need, wear and hat and sun screen. It gets hot during the middle of the day. The summit view is fantastic. This is a great hike if you have a dog for company. We do this hike a lot. It's great for getting outdoors and getting the heart pumping when you don't have much time. Takes us about 1.5 hours of walking time, carrying a 3 year old and a 5 month old. It gets quite busy and isn't the hike for you if you don't like meeting dogs on the trail. It also gets quite hot, so bring more water than you think you'll need. Trail is a bit rocky in places, so best done in shoes with good soles. Poles can help on the somewhat slippery descent, if you have bad knees or are carrying children. Easy to extend length by starting at Eben G. Fine park and hiking over the small ridge/hill to Sanitas. Note: Parking can be difficult on weekends and there is no restroom. A girlfriend and I completed this hike yesterday and were not in for what this hike presents. We started our ascend on the west side of the mountain. The steps were helpful but it was very steep. It's true that the summit "appears" several times to you, but it's not really the summit. You'll say to yourself, "dang, there's more?!". On a positive note, this is a very good hike for those looking for a cardio workout. You must have strong legs and knees for this hike. Bring lots of water! I ran out and I have a camelback. Unknown, the east ridge was worse but we were determined to finish this loop! It's far steeper, extremely techical and the trail is not clearly marked. We lost the trail in several spots and did some "butt hikes" too If you're looking for a short easy hike, stay in the valley and on the east side loop (visible from the valley trail on the right going up). The Mount Sanitas Trail (to left) is quite steep and technical in places. The east ridge descent has a lot of slick, muddy areas and tricky sections. This is a very fun hike, but not exactly easy or "moderate" as the description would have you believe. If you have any stiffness in your knees, I'd avoid the east ridge descent. Views are great, and there is good shade when you need it. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Boulder County Hiking, Boulder County Trails, Boulder County Hikes |