Mesa Trail at a glance: Boulder's signature long trail, running 7 miles along the base of the Flatirons from Chautauqua to South Mesa. Moderate difficulty with rolling terrain. Plan 4-6 hours for the full traverse (shuttle required). Can also hike shorter out-and-back sections. Stunning mountain views throughout.
Trail Overview
Distance: 7 miles point-to-point (14 miles out and back)
Elevation gain: 1,800 feet cumulative (rolling terrain)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 4-6 hours point-to-point
Trailheads: Chautauqua (north) and South Mesa (south)
The Mesa Trail is Boulder's backbone trail, connecting the city's most scenic open space from Chautauqua Park to Eldorado Springs. It hugs the base of the Flatirons, providing continuous mountain views while staying at moderate elevation. Side trails branch off to summits, canyons, and rock formations.
Trail Sections
Chautauqua to NCAR
Distance: 3 miles | Meadows, forest, and the iconic Flatirons backdrop. Most popular section. Connects to Royal Arch and First/Second Flatiron trails.
NCAR to Bear Canyon
Distance: 1.5 miles | Quieter section through ponderosa pine forest. Access to Bear Peak and Fern Canyon trails.
Bear Canyon to South Mesa
Distance: 2.5 miles | Southern section with views into Eldorado Canyon. Less crowded than northern sections. Shadow Canyon trail branches west.
Logistics
Point-to-Point
To hike the full trail, arrange a car shuttle between Chautauqua and South Mesa (about 5 miles by road). Alternatively, use rideshare or have someone drop you off/pick you up. Most people hike south to north, ending at Chautauqua.
Out-and-Back
Pick a section and do an out-and-back. The Chautauqua to NCAR section (6 miles round trip) is most popular. NCAR is accessible by city bus.
Loops
Combine Mesa Trail sections with side trails for various loop options. Chautauqua-Mesa-Bear Canyon-NCAR makes a satisfying half-day loop.
Tips
Start early: Parking at both trailheads fills by mid-morning on weekends.
Water: No reliable water sources. Carry at least 2 liters for the full traverse.
Navigation: The Mesa Trail is well-marked, but the many junctions can be confusing. Carry a trail map or download the Boulder OSMP app.
Dogs: On leash only throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the full Mesa Trail?
Moderate. The elevation gain is spread over 7 miles, so no section is brutally steep. Fit hikers handle it fine; less experienced hikers should allow plenty of time.
Can I run the Mesa Trail?
Yes—it's popular with trail runners. Fast runners complete the point-to-point in under 90 minutes. The rolling terrain makes for good running.
What's the best section for a short hike?
Chautauqua to the NCAR connector (about 3 miles one way). Best views, most trail variety, and NCAR has water and restrooms.