Parking: N40°01.554’ W105°13.648’
This heart of mine no doubt lives for Dirt but on occasion even I can't resist the soothing ride along the Boulder Creek. This path will make the perfect afternoon and is easy enough for any rider of any skill. This route takes you right through the heart of Boulder and is quite honestly the best way to catch a glimpse of the Boulder lifestyle.
I began my ride just west of the intersection of Valmont and 55th street. Parking never seems to be a problem here and if you don't mind a few minutes of solitude this is your best bet. The first half mile leaves a little to be desired but don't worry because the scenery gets so much better. The path is paved all the way to mile mark 5.22 and is well marked except for the split to Boulder Community Hospital - I was sidetracked my first time so keep your eyes peeled on the way back. Stick to the path that runs right along the creek and you'll have no problem finding your way around.
You will cross a number of bridges and overpasses, which offer some great photo opps and the shade is a welcome relief on a bright sunny day. You'll be tempted by the singletrack that runs along the path but be aware that bikes are prohibited so to avoid those knowing stares stay on the path. Also, treat the solid yellow lines as you would any lane and stay to the right.
Traveling west bound at around 1.5 miles you'll come upon a great view of the Boulder Flatirons to the left so have your cameras ready. As you continue west you'll pass right next to Colorado University. The creek is such an attraction it's hard to miss the student life happening all around you; will most certainly take you back to your college days.
On weekends, Central Park at about the 3.3 mile mark (Broadway and Canyon) will be bustling with activity as local growers gather at one of the finest farmer's markets in the state. Here you'll have your pick from some of the freshest organic fruits and vegetables you'll find anywhere so bring your appetite. Also, Pearl Street Mall is just a couple of blocks away so if outdoor mall hopping, souvenir shopping is the task of the day, you won't want to pass this up. Pearl Street Mall is also a great place to grab a bite to eat so set some time aside if you crave a little taste of Boulder.
Right around this city center you'll have the most concentration of the 'color' that makes Boulder so unique. Boulder has earned a 'colorful' reputation for the style and ease of its counterculture with its roots belonging to the 'hippie' generation of the 1960's. Decades have passed but Boulder still remains one of the 'hippest' towns in the country.
The pavement ends at Eben G. Fine Park at around the 5.22 mile mark. For those looking for a little more exercise and some canyon atmosphere, continue past the park on the well groomed and wide Dirt path. You'll definitely want to have your cameras ready because there is some absolutely beautiful scenery up the canyon with stunning rapids and rock walls. The climb is gradual by our standards but may be tiresome for those from lower elevations. Take your time and stop often, you won't regret it. The trail ends after about 6.5 miles, with port-o-potties just in case. This is a very busy trail on weekends so watch your speed on the way down and always yield to pedestrians.
Finally, if you've ever had a Chicago dog you won't find one any better than a Mustard's Last Stand Chicago dog. Right off the path at Broadway and Arapahoe (3.35 mile East Bound / 1719 Broadway) you'll find the tastiest hot dog and is sure to hit the spot after an afternoon on the Boulder Creek Path. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, click this link connect.garmin.com/activity/315330377 to gather all the information you need to plan your ride. With a little heart, courage and an open mind, you're sure to enjoy the colorful journey down Boulder's 'yellow brick road;' hope to see you on the path.
Alan
No comments:
Post a Comment