Boulder Star Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.4 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
156 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Boulder Star Hike travels alongside the eastern flank of Flagstaff Mountain to the base of the star that lights up the mountainside in the holiday season. Adventure along the ridge that reveals epic views of the cityscape below. This lovely evening stroll is an awesome nature walk for the whole family.

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Route Description for Boulder Star Hike

The Boulder Star Hike is a must-do when in the Boulder area over the holidays. It is one thing to view the star from the city but seeing it up close and personal reveals an impressive perspective. Though the star is only lit up in the winter months, this trail exposes epic views and scenery year-round. Many hikers try to go off-trail and hike up to the light itself, but rangers discourage this as it can be detrimental to the fragile ecosystem, and many people get stuck on the steep ridge. If the terrain is snowy, consider microspikes to safely navigate the icy terrain.

Begin your journey along the Boulder Star Hike from the Flagstaff Trailhead. From here, track northwest through the meadowlands along the Flagstaff Trail. Soon after your departure from the trailhead, you will have to navigate a set of switchbacks beneath the timberline. Hike through the sparse tree coverage which exposes wonderful views of the Boulder cityscape below. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection, keep right here and you will be diverted onto the Panorama Trail. At the next junction soon after, merge onto the Halfway House Trail.

Now exposed, the barren terrain will reward incredible views of the Boulder Star directly above. Revel in the sights of the star that lights up the mountainside and enjoy the views of the city lit up below. To get back to the trailhead, simply retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Boulder Star Hike Trailhead

The Boulder Star Hike departs from the Flagstaff Trailhead off Flagstaff Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Boulder Star Hike Elevation Graph

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