One-Day Hiking Excursion: Boulder Skyline Traverse

The Boulder Skyline Traverse is an iconic 1-day hiking challenge that spans approximately 16 miles across the Boulder foothills and ascends five major peaks. With 5,000+ feet of gain/around 5,000+ feet of loss, the traverse is very strenuous but rewarding, offering panoramic views, diverse terrain, and a comprehensive experience of Boulder's natural beauty. It's perfect for experienced hikers looking to test their endurance, have an adventure, and enjoy some of the best vistas in the Front Range. This hike will take roughly 10-12 hours to complete. We will be providing guides, lunch, snacks and a shuttle service back to your vehicle. Make sure to eat breakfast before and bring lots of water, additional snacks, layers and a pack!

Trail details can be found here but please note, we are only doing the hike one-way, not out and back.

Peak #1: South Boulder Peak

• Distance from Start: 5 miles
• Elevation Gain from Start: 3,000 feet

The first peak we’ll hike up to is South Boulder Peak, a steep and rugged climb. The trail ascends through dense forests before breaking into rocky outcroppings, providing expansive views that stretch from the high peaks of the Continental Divide to the eastern plains.

Peak #2: Bear Peak

• Distance from Start: 6 miles
• Elevation Gain from Previous Peak: 300 feet

Bear Peak is next on the list, and is a short mile away from South Boulder Peak. This peak features a slightly less steep approach but involves some technical sections near the summit, providing impressive views over Boulder and the surrounding area.

Peak #3: Green Mountain

• Distance from Start: 9 miles
• Elevation Gain from Previous Peak: 500 feet

From Bear Peak to Green Mountain, the trail dips slightly, losing 300 feet before ascending another 500 feet to the summit. Green Mountain offers a more forgiving climb and is famous for its sweeping vistas and lush, green landscapes that give the mountain its name.

Peak #4: Flagstaff Mountain

• Distance from Start: 12 miles
• Elevation Gain from Previous Peak: 400 feet

The journey to Flagstaff Mountain includes a brief descent of 200 feet followed by a moderate rise of 400 feet. This section features a blend of forested paths and scenic overlooks, providing a gentler hike compared to the earlier peaks.

Peak #5: Mount Sanitas

• Distance from Start: 16 miles
• Elevation Gain from Previous Peak: 1,300 feet

Mount Sanitas marks the final ascent of the day-hike traverse. After an initial 500 feet descent from Flagstaff, hikers face a challenging 1,300 feet climb. The trail up Mount Sanitas is marked by steep switchbacks and rocky trails, leading to expansive views that overlook the northern reaches of Boulder and beyond.

After summiting Mount Sanitas, we will then hike the approximately 1.5 miles back down the mountain. A shuttle will pick us up and take us to our cars at the South Mesa trailhead.

Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Lunch will be provided as well as snacks but please feel free to bring your own favorite on-trail snacks.

FAQs

• What's Included? Lunch and snacks, 2 hiking guides and shuttle service back to your vehicle after the hike.
• Who's invited? GH Members plus one guest per member.
• Dogs? Dogs are welcome to join for the hike, but must remain on leash at all times. Please make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your pup!
• Parking: Free. We will meet at the South Mesa Trailhead at 5:00 am
• What to Bring? Day Pack **your pack will need to be able to fit 3L of water, your lunch and snacks (which we provide), and your personal items. You will also want a headlamp, hiking poles, down jacket, layers and any other personal items.

*Imagery provided by Roddy Hyduk. IG: @roddyhyduk

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