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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 2 of 5 Submit your own review This mountain is a little gem and an old favorite of mine. The mountain is used by athletes and sightseers alike and provides a sanctuary for wildlife tucked in right next to the town of Boulder. Yesterday I hiked the loop and saw lizards, butterflies, blue jays, and chipmunks right off the trail. I no longer live in the area but now live at sea level, so locals should advise their friends and loved ones from lower altitudes that they'll need to take a few breaks along the way. While they rest, they can take in the scenery. Thanks Boulder! I am 9 years old. It was sooo cool because you got to see all of these butterflies and ladybugs that were all over you. It was hard because there were lots of difficult steps. It took my Dad and me about 2 and 1/2 hours. Most kids shouldn't have trouble with this 3 mile stroll- 30+ year olds who "lose" the trail here probably get lost in their local supermarket. This trail is a joke- it probably seems "hard" to the people who are expecting an escalator to carry them up. Note how these reviews only reccommend "good shoes" - not hiking boots, not crampons...suck it up. If you think this trail is hard you probably find it difficult exerting yourself to bring your garbage to the end of your driveways. Toughen up, folks. Hiked Sanitas today going clockwise up the ridgeline and descending the east side. If you are in shape and used to walking up and down boulders then this is a moderate hike. If you have slippery shoes then there will be potential to lose your footing. If Longs is hard and Betaso is easy then this is only moderate. The majority of the hike is on a groomed trail or on very nice steps that are built into the trail. What I like best about this hike is that it is minutes from downtown Boulder and instantly you leave the city behind. Thank you Boulder open space! I would agree that this is a difficult hike, with only a couple of flat spots. I've done it a few times before when I lived in Colorado and it wasn't as difficult as it was this time, probably since I've been living at sea level the last 8 months. But it's a great hike and a great workout! "Hike" is a four letter word when referencing Mount Sanitas to flat landers from Florida. But it is an "adventure" that we will always remember. Go with good friends,sense of humor,lots of water and good knees. This is a great hike if you are looking for real workout. I agree with the other comments here that it is NOT MODERATE. But the reward of the views is well worth it. Good sturdy hiking shoes are definitely necessary, as it it slippery on the descent. Very enjoyable! I could have benefitted from the reviews on this site prior to hiking this trail w/ my family. My kids are 6 & 8 and we have enjoyed many easy/moderate hikes in the boulder area. However, I would rate this closer to difficult than moderate (especially for the kids). The ascent up the west side was moderate, shaded, and provided many scenic views. The descent on the east side was difficult, steeper, and slippery in places. We lost the trail briefly on the descent (in the boulders where others have reported the same issue). We hiked on a Weds morning and saw many people on the trail (my kids counted 26 dogs!). Overall, a fun and challenging hike, but make sure your kids can handle a bit of scrambling if you descend on the east ridge. 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 |