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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 6 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Tom on 6/28/2010 I hike this trail nearly every day. It's perfect for me because it's really close, really short, and steep enough to give me a great workout if I push the pace. It usually takes me a little less than an hour to go up and down at a moderate hiking pace, and the difficultly at that pace is also moderate. Seems to be pretty popular with runners. 
Reviewed by KB on 6/2/2010 Moderate hike, but more technical than what you would expect for a moderate hike. Fun and easy if you're in decent shape and have good shoes... could be long, difficult, and nerve-wracking if you're an inexperienced hiker or are out of shape. Short descent on east side is an adventure that you need good shoes for, I personally thought it was a lot of fun to get "lost" for a few minutes. The West ridge is a south facing uphill hike... you'll want water if it's a sunny day. Boulder Open Space is great!
Reviewed by Kim on 4/23/2010 I have been doing this hike for a couple years now. I love it! I run several miles every other day and consider myself to have some endurance...Until I do Sanitas for the first time of the year! I did it last weekend and it took me way too long! I had to stop several times, but I know that within a month of doing this trail once or twice a week I'll be able to make it to the top without stopping, or being passed- and I'll be able to run down. It's and amazing workout!
Reviewed by Kapelmuur on 11/7/2009 I've really come to like this hike. I prefer starting at the trailhead at the end of Forest Ave, then doing the loop clockwise. That way there's a little warm-up at the start and you get the boring gradual descent out of the early before hitting the main climb. Unfortunately, on warm days the amazing smell of the Ponderosa's is often overwhelmed by the all the dog crap left on the side of the trail. Respect to all the responsible owners and note to the bad apples: they provide those plastic bags at the trailhead for a reason.
Reviewed by Viewer on 10/25/2009 Wow what a great hike with fabulous views along the way. I did the loop going up the west side to the summit, then down the east ridge to the valley. It was a good workout. There were alot more hikers on the trails than I have experienced on other local hikes. I would recommend this to others for sure. Enjoy!!!
Reviewed by rckymtdrmr on 8/28/2009 a great hike ! the views and the solitude at the summit are worth the effort. one could spend hours at the top. i used one trekking pole and it certainly simplified the climb. this hike may be a little tough for an out of town visitor not accustomed to strenuous climbing in the altitude. returning on the east valley trail was a great way to wind down . overall a great workout and certainly a feeling of accomplishment. will do this hike again.
Reviewed by EGbeater on 8/19/2009 I believe URWhimps is intentionally being an ass. This trail is certainly not "a joke" in terms of the effort required. I run 30+ miles/wk and do a track intervals/hill workout once a week, and Mt. Sanitas is still a tough workout for me. If anyone finds it too easy, feel free to run up the entire west side. If it's still not a challenge, hold your breath the whole way.
Reviewed by Katelyn on 8/10/2009 That review from URWhimps was a bit brash. This hike was beautiful, but from someone who loves hiking AND isnt in perfect shape, i would consider it to be just above moderate in difficulty. We hiked up the west side which was relatively steep, and including the time that we spent enjoying the view, we spent about 2 hours on the trail. I highly recommend it to anyone! It will give you quite the workout, and you may have to take a lot of rest breaks, but it will be well worth 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
