Flagstaff Mountain
Boulder, CO
Near downtown Boulder, Flagstaff Mountain makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors. Part of the city’s open space, it’s home to numerous hiking and biking trails, outcrops for bouldering, viewpoints, and a summit area with accessible trails, a nature center, an amphitheater, picnic areas, and fantastic views.
The basics
Flagstaff Mountain’s proximity to downtown Boulder makes it easy to visit independently. Opt for a short hike or challenge yourself by hiking or biking from the base to the summit. To save your legs, you can also drive to the summit to enjoy the panoramic views of Boulder, the Flatirons, and the Continental Divide, enjoy a picnic, explore the nature center, or hike. The mountain also offers bouldering, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting.
Things to know before you go
- Bicycles are only allowed on certain trails on the mountain.
- There’s a 30-foot (9-meter) vehicle length limit for Flagstaff Road.
- While restrooms are available at Flagstaff Summit, potable water is not.
- The trails at Flagstaff Summit are wheelchair-accessible.
- Dogs are permitted on Flagstaff Mountain but must be kept on a leash or under voice and sight commands (with appropriate tags).
How to get there
Flagstaff Mountain is 5 miles (8 kilometers) southwest of downtown Boulder. Trailheads and parking at the base are along Baseline Road in Chautauqua Park and at the Gregory Canyon Trailhead. A network of trails covers the mountain. Take Flagstaff Road and Flagstaff Summit Road to drive to the summit. All of the parking lots on the mountain require a fee for non-Boulder registered vehicles.
When to get there
Flagstaff Mountain is open year-round. Late spring to early fall offers the best weather conditions for outdoor activities. The Flagstaff Summit Road is only open seasonally, from May 1 to October 30. The mountain is a popular outdoor recreation destination and parking spots are limited. Visit earlier in the day during busy periods to get a spot.
Things to do at Flagstaff Nature Center
To learn more about the area’s wildlife and geology, and open space management, visit the Flagstaff Nature Center at the summit of Flagstaff Mountain. Open Friday–Sunday in summer and fall, the free center offers informative displays and exhibits, stuffed animal mounts, interactive activities, maps, trail information, and volunteers to answer questions.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!