If the mountains are calling and you must go, consider using this Boulder, Colorado itinerary to help you plan an epic trip to the mountains. With 300 miles of hiking and biking trails, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and admire the slanted sandstone formations called the Flatirons that make Boulder so iconic.
I lived in Colorado for six years and spent many days exploring Boulder. I have fond memories of hiking in Chautauqua Park with my husband on our first visit to Boulder, brewery hopping at Avery Brewing Co. and Sanitas with my friends from college, watching The Lumineers at the Boulder Theater, and showing my out-of-state family around Pearl Street when they came to visit.
Through personal experience, I’ve learned the best hikes, things to do, and places to go in Boulder. This 4-day Boulder, Colorado itinerary is a compilation of my recommendations and will help you make the most of your time as you explore the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
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4-Day Boulder Itinerary at a Glance
You cannot possibly see everything Boulder offers in four days, but you can experience many of the highlights of this unique city in Colorado. This Boulder, Colorado itinerary is for outdoor enthusiasts who want to spend at least part of each day outside exploring.
You can customize this Boulder itinerary to best suit your needs and interests, but if you want to experience a little bit of everything, I recommend following the itinerary as-is for a well-rounded Boulder trip.
Where you will visit
DAY 1: Chautauqua Park
DAY 2: Flagstaff Mountain and Pearl Street
DAY 3: Eldorado Canyon State Park
DAY 4: NCAR trails and Boulder Falls
Day 1: Chautauqua Park
On your first day in Boulder, you’ll learn what makes Boulder such a must-visit destination in Colorado. You’ll spend the morning arriving and getting settled, then explore Chautauqua Park to see the Flatirons up close. To end the day, you’ll pick from one of Boulder’s local delicious restaurants.
Morning/Afternoon – Hike at Chautauqua Park
Kick off your Boulder itinerary by exploring Chautauqua Park. This area has a park, hiking trails, and a historic district with a General Store and Dining Hall.
There are 40 miles of trails from the Chautauqua trailhead, and you can choose your hike based on how far you want to go, the amount of time you have, and the trail features you’d like to see. There is an on-site Ranger Cottage near the bathrooms with maps and brochures.
For your first visit to Chautauqua Park, I recommend either Chautauqua Trail (moderate) or Royal Arch Trail (more difficult).
Chautauqua Trail
Trail Basics
For a quick, 1.3-mile hike, try the Chautauqua Trail. This moderate trail offers exceptional views of the city of Boulder. You don’t have to go the full distance to see the views and can turn around whenever you feel like it.
As soon as you park in the lot, you’ll see a wide, paved trail leading up to a forested area. It looks steeper than it really is, but you may need to pause and catch your breath if you’re coming from an area of lower altitude.
As you walk up the path, you’ll see the red-orange roof tiles of the University of Colorado Boulder’s campus in the distance. There are plenty of places to stop for scenic photos of the Flatirons with prairie grass and pine trees.
Royal Arch Trail
Trail Basics
For a challenging hike, I recommend the Royal Arch Trail. This popular 3.3-mile trail starts as a dirt trail weaving through a shaded pine forest. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Flatirons.
The trail ends at a unique arch rock formation with views of Boulder. The hike is considered hard due to the elevation gain and half-mile worth of flagstone stairs you must ascend to reach the arch.
When you finish hiking, I recommend relaxing in the grassy area of Chautauqua Park. If you have a snack, book, or frisbee, this is the perfect place to lay out a blanket and relax on a sunny day.
If time allows, you could also explore the Chautauqua historic district before dinner. The General Store has espresso, ice cream, candies, and small souvenirs.
Evening – Dinner at a Local Boulder Restaurant
If you want to stay in the Chautauqua historic district for dinner, try the Victorian-style Dining Hall, which provides a more upscale dining experience. Vegetarian and vegan options include a southwest black bean burger or asparagus tacos. Reservations are encouraged, and they also have an excellent brunch menu if you decide to come back one morning.
Check out Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery if you prefer a more casual option with a quirky, Boulder-esque vibe. They have two different locations in Boulder: one on Pearl Street and the other (called Southern Sun) on South Broadway. This cash-only restaurant is known for its famous fries, and vegan options include a vegan chili or an Impossible burger.
Day 2: Flagstaff Mountain and Pearl Street
On your second day in Boulder, you will get to see Flagstaff Mountain and choose if you want to drive or hike to the summit. You’ll also have time for shopping, dining, and people-watching along Pearl Street. The day ends with dinner and drinks at The Rayback.
Morning – Flagstaff Mountain and Brunch
If you’re craving a stunning view of the Rocky Mountains, head up Flagstaff Mountain. You can choose to drive, bike, or hike up the mountain.
If you drive, it’s 4.5 miles up a steep, paved road with hairpin turns. You don’t need a 4-wheel drive vehicle for this scenic road, but you will want to go slow and drive carefully.
Bring $5 cash to put into an envelope for parking. When you reach the top of the road, I recommend parking at the Flagstaff Nature Center and hiking along the easy 1.2-mile Boy Scout to Flagstaff trail loop.
Boy Scout Trail, Mary’s Point, and Flagstaff Trail Loop
Trail Basics
The Boy Scout Trail to Flagstaff Trail is an easy loop to stretch your legs after driving up Flagstaff Mountain. With only 193 feet of elevation gain, the trail is pretty flat and easy.
You will see a turn-off along the loop for Mary’s Point. There is a bit of a scramble here over some boulders, though it is doable for beginners.
Along the trail, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Boulder’s Pearl Street and the snow-covered Rocky Mountains in the distance.
Gregory Canyon, Range View, and Flagstaff Loop
Trail Basics
For those who prefer a longer hike and want to avoid driving up the steep road, I recommend parking at Gregory Canyon Trailhead and hiking up Flagstaff Mountain.
This hike is a 3.8-mile loop that combines the Gregory Canyon Trail, Range View Trail, and Flagstaff Trail. It is a challenging trail with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet, so I only recommend it for experienced hikers.
The views are worth the hard work, though. When you reach Realization Point, you’ll enjoy views of snow-covered peaks of mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Afternoon – Pearl Street Mall
Once you’ve had your fill of the mountain views from Flagstaff Mountain, it’s time to head to Pearl Street Mall. Before you hit the shops, though, I recommend fueling up with a tasty brunch at one of Pearl Street’s breakfast joints.
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery is a small breakfast chain that originated in Colorado. They have a delicious breakfast and brunch menu, including vegan banana bliss pancakes or a breakfast tofu scramble, and they can customize almost all of their plates to make them vegan or vegetarian.
Once you finish brunch, you have the afternoon to explore the fun shops along Pearl Street Mall. This area is a four-block outdoor pedestrian mall with hundreds of cute shops.
I recommend checking out the Boulder Book Store, Common Threads consignment shop, Two Hands Paperie for lovers of crafts and paper products, and outdoor brand shops like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and Backcountry.
As you shop, you’ll also likely encounter street performers along the way. If you ever want to take a break and rest, Pearl Street Mall is the perfect place to find a bench and people-watch.
Evening – Food Trucks and Drinks
End your day with a casual dinner and drinks at The Rayback, a food truck park with a full bar, tap house, and coffee shop. There is something for everyone here, and they often have live music and trivia nights.
Their food truck offerings change daily, so check out their schedule to see the options before you go. If you visit Boulder on a holiday, The Rayback often has fun holiday-themed festivals and events. I visited during the fall and stumbled upon a German night with special music, beers, costumes, and food.
Day 3: Eldorado Canyon State Park
For day 3, prepare for a day hike in Eldorado Canyon State Park and an afternoon adventure (e-bike tour of Boulder, Museum of Boulder, or a tour of Celestial Seasonings). For dinner, you’ll head to The Sink, a family-owned restaurant known for burgers and pizza.
Morning – Hike at Eldorado Canyon State Park
Located just 20 minutes outside Boulder, Eldorado Canyon State Park is a beautiful spot for hiking and rock climbing. No matter which trail you explore, you’ll admire views of sandstone cliffs, Boulder Creek, and the golden rock walls.
If you visit during winter, you can also cross-country ski or snowshoe here. Note that if you visit on weekends or holidays from May 15-September 15, you must purchase an advanced permit.
Two of my favorite hikes here are Rattlesnake Gulch Trail and Eldorado Canyon Trail. Both are moderate and have similar views of the canyon, but Rattlesnake Gulch has unique trail features, while Eldorado Canyon Trail is a better option for those looking for a longer day hike.
Rattlesnake Gulch Trail
Trail Basics
There are two unique sites to see along the Rattlesnake Gulch Trail: the Crags Hotel ruins and the Continental Divide Overlook.
In 1912, the Crags Hotel caught on fire, and now its ruins are a historical site you can visit along this trail. There is a sign detailing the hotel’s history that is interesting to read as you explore the abandoned ruins.
At the end of the trail, you will see the Continental Divide. This turnaround point is a convenient and scenic place to sit and eat a hiking snack before heading back out.
Eldorado Canyon Trail
Trail Basics
If you’re looking for a moderate challenge, try the Eldorado Canyon Trail, which offers views of the Rocky Mountains, Eldorado Canyon, a small waterfall, and the Denver skyline along the trail.
I recommend packing a picnic lunch for this hike. At the end of the trail, you will arrive at Boulder Creek, where there are excellent spots to eat and relax.
There is a gradual elevation gain throughout the trail with a good balance of ups and downs. If you ever need a break, there are numerous benches throughout the trail where you can stop to catch your breath and drink water.
Afternoon – Choose your adventure
Depending on your interests, there are a few ways you can spend your afternoon in Boulder. I recommend trying an e-bike tour, visiting the Museum of Boulder, or taking a tour of Celestial Seasonings (a tea factory).
Here is information about each to help you pick your ideal experience.
Evening – Dinner at The Sink
For a local Boulder restaurant, I recommend heading to The Sink. This family-owned spot is fun and quirky and offers unique menu options like a Sinkburger and Ugly Crust pizza.
Since 1923, the restaurant has operated in Boulder near campus on The Hill. Many famous people have visited here and signed the walls, including Barack Obama and Guy Fieri.
If you are vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of tasty options. I recommend trying the cauliflower buffalo bites, veggie burger, or plant-based pizza with vegan cheese and veggies.
Day 4: NCAR trails, Boulder Falls, and a craft brewery
Your last day in Boulder consists of one more hike, a quick trip to Boulder Falls, and a visit to one of Colorado’s famous craft breweries. I also offer ideas on some of Boulder’s best music venues.
Morning – Hike the NCAR trails
The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder offers a free parking lot for Boulder Open Space trails. There are several hikes from here with incredible views of the Flatirons.
A couple of popular options are Mallory Cave and Bear Peak. Mallory Cave is a moderate option, while Bear Peak is challenging for even experienced hikers.
Mallory Cave
Trail Basics
As the name suggests, the Mallory Cave trail leads you to one of Boulder’s caves. Although people are no longer allowed to go inside the cave to reduce human contamination harmful to bats, there is a gate in front of the cave which you can look through to see inside.
I recommend downloading this trail map ahead of time since several other trails branch off of the Mallory Cave trail. The final ascent to the cave can also be a little confusing to navigate as you trek across a rock scramble.
Bear Peak Trail
Trail Basics
Bear Peak is a popular yet challenging hike in Boulder. Due to its difficulty with nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, I recommend this hike only for experienced hikers who have previously completed hikes with similar altitude and gain.
On the way up to Bear Peak, you’ll hike on a rocky path through a forest with steep uphills. The 360-degree, panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains at the top of Bear Peak are worth the effort.
The summit is often windy, so bring a lightweight jacket and a beanie if you want to hang out here. On your way down, you can either go back the way you came (as reflected in these trail stats) or take the Bear Peak Canyon Loop Trail, which adds another 2.2 miles (but no additional elevation gain) to your total hike.
Afternoon – Visit Boulder Falls
Depending on time, I recommend picking up lunch to-go or packing a picnic and driving 25 minutes from the NCAR trails to Boulder Falls for a relaxing afternoon.
The drive through Boulder Canyon to Boulder Falls is scenic, and there is free parking at the trailhead. If you feel tired from your morning hike, don’t worry – Boulder Falls is not a hike. It’s a 100-yard walk from the parking lot to a 70-foot waterfall.
The waterfall is small but mighty, and it is an excellent spot to take photos, read a book, and hang out for the afternoon. You can put your feet in the water, but be cautious as the wet rocks can be slippery.
Evening – Craft brewery and live music
For your final night in Colorado, visit one of Boulder’s famous craft breweries or a hip venue for live music (or do both if time permits).
Boulder Craft Breweries
Here are some Boulder, Colorado breweries I recommend exploring.
Boulder Live Music Venues
If you love live music, I also recommend checking out one of Boulder’s iconic venues.
If you have more time…
If you have an extra day or two in the area, you can also drive 1 hour to Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s worth the drive to see the park, watch the wildlife, go for a day hike in the park, and check out the town of Estes Park. If it’s your first time visiting, check out these tips for your first trip to RMNP.
Boulder Itinerary FAQs
Have a question about this Boulder itinerary? Check out these frequently asked questions along with their answers.
How many days do you need in Boulder?
The number of days you should spend in Boulder depends on your travel style, what you want to do, and how much time you have. I think four days is plenty to experience many of the best things to do in Boulder.
You will see iconic Boulder destinations, go on the best Boulder hikes, try local restaurants, and visit Colorado craft breweries.
Although there is always more to do, I recommend planning for 4-5 days for your first trip to Boulder. You can always come back and do more on your next trip!
When is the best time to visit Boulder?
With 300 days of sunshine, Colorado is pleasant year-round. I recommend visiting in summer or early fall for ideal temperatures and weather.
Summertime is wildflower season in Colorado. In the fall, you can enjoy driving through the Colorado foliage and hiking among the golden aspen trees. Trails are often muddy in the spring, but there are fewer crowds this time of year.
If you enjoy snow, the layer of white snow on the Boulder Flatirons is a magical sight. You will need to bring traction devices and warm layers for hikes, though, and some roads and trailheads may be inaccessible.
What if I only have one day to explore Boulder?
If you only have one day, here are the top things to do in Boulder, Colorado:
- Hike among the Flatirons at Chautauqua Park
- Explore the shops at Pearl Street Mall
- Visit a Boulder brewery or catch live music at a Boulder music venue
Want to explore more of Colorado? Check out these articles.
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Have you been to Boulder? What would you add to this Boulder, Colorado itinerary? Leave us your tips and suggestions in the comments below!
