Guardians of the Flatirons: Green Mountain, Bear Peak, and South Boulder Peak S...

Guardians of the Flatirons: Green Mountain, Bear Peak, and South Boulder Peak Summit Trails

The Flatirons serve as the mountainous backdrop to Boulder and denote the eastern terminus of the Rocky Mountains. Their abrupt angles and reddish hues make them the perfect ambassadors for the subsequent peaks that rise to the west. This hike gives you an extended tour of the area, offering great views of Boulder and Denver to the east, and the Indian Peaks and Front Range to the west. On clear days, you can see from Longs Peak to Pikes Peak. The western side of these mountains is surprisingly wild; standing on the summit of Bear Peak feels like you’re on the dividing line between civilization and wilderness. As the trail drops down to the base of the Flatirons, it bypasses dozens of amazing rock formations. Even though it’s in town, the elevation gain and mileage gives you a workout on par with one you’d experience on higher mountains.

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