Walker Ranch Loop

Boulder

An iconic hike above Boulder.

Hiking Difficult

Distance: 13 km
Ascent: 496 m
Descent: 496 m
Duration: 3-4 hrs

Low Point: 2 km
High Point: 2.2 km
Gradient: 8˚

Walker Ranch is an iconic trail located just up the mountains from Boulder. This 7.8-mile loop packs in a whopping 1,600 feet of climbing and descending, thanks to some steep pitches. Hikers will have to negotiate a few staircases along this loop.

Photo from Walker Ranch Loop — Photo: TKrol Photography, Shutterstock

Description

In between the tough climbs, the trail has many technical boulder-filled rock gardens with a few sections of flowy trail interspersed.

The views are also spectacular, with some glimpses of big-mountain views and a section of trail that runs along a raging mountain stream. Walker Ranch truly has something of everything, which has helped it remain such a perennial favorite.

Sources: https://bouldercounty.gov/open-space/parks-and-trails/walker-ranch/ https://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/walker-ranch/ https://backcountrypost.com/threads/walker-ranch-loop-boulder-co.5812/

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.