1st Flatiron Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for 1st Flatiron
Starting from Chautauqua Park, pass by the Ranger Station and begin at the trailhead for Chautauqua Trail. Hike up hill, with the Flatirons directly in front of you along a wide gravel path.
At the second major junction, the trail connects with Flatirons Loop Trail, and after a short distance, take a right onto 1st / 2nd Flatiron Trail. The trail becomes narrower, rockier and steeper from this point on, as it quickly gains elevation.
Hike aross a scree field along the well-defined path to the beginning of the steep switchbacks. Once at the base of the 1st Flatiron, you will pass a split in the trail and a bridge which is used for climbing access.
Part-way up the hike, there is one semi-technical section of hiking, where there are steps carved into the rocks for ascending a short rocky gully. Continue along the switchbacks, ping-ponging between the 1st and 2nd Flatirons, until finally reaching the saddle between the two.
From the saddle, a spectacular view of the 3rd Flatiron becomes visible. The trail ends at an overlook on the backside of the 1st Flatiron. From the overlook, a view of Longs Peak (4,346 m) and Indian Peaks Wilderness is off in the distance. To descend, hike back the way you came.
The Flatirons in general, are very popular and attract large groups of people. Its proximity to Downtown Boulder and Colorado University, make it a heavily trafficked trail. Despite its popularity, it is still an amazing hike and a must-do when in Boulder.
Find more amazing hikes around Boulder:
Insider Hints for 1st Flatiron
- You have to pay to park at the Chautauqua Park, but as we mentioned in ‘Getting There’ you can find additional parking along Baseline Road.
- Heavy foot traffic and erosion hasn’t been great for this trail even with continual trail maintenance from local volunteers. Please don’t cut short the switchbacks and remain on the trail.
Getting to the 1st Flatiron Trailhead
This hike begins at Chautauqua Park at the base of the Boulder Flatirons. Take Baseline Rd. towards Flagstaff Mountain, parking is available along Baseline Rd. or in Chautauqua Park.Route Information for 1st Flatiron
When to do:
Year round
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Toilets:
Yes, primitive pit toilet
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
1st Flatiron Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for 1st Flatiron
Superb views! One of my favorite easy hikes.
- Trip Length
- 02:25
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Great hiking with fresh air. I think it was a good workout.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
A bit challenging for such spectacular views. Now I know why this place is popular.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
The scenery was inspiring to see. It has unique features that would set it apart from the rest.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
The elevation and climbing were challenging. Phenomenal views throughout the hike!
- Trip Length
- 02:00
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
I have nothing but praise for this hike! At first you might find it boring, but just keep going!
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
I really enjoyed this with the beautiful views
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
How big, how blue, how beautiful the sky was when we visited. Everything was perfect.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Glad we bought a new gopro to capture all our adventures here. It was magnificent!
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Such a beautiful hike. Fairly-easy, just gradual elevation
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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