💧 Best Boulder Hikes with a Splash of Scenic

Hey Boulder! 🌞

Not all trails are created equal—some come with a soundtrack of babbling brooks, shady stream crossings, and misty waterfalls. If your hiking vibe includes cooling off beside a creek or chasing a waterfall (no shame in that game), we’ve got the trail guide for you. Whether you want a quick stroll or a full-on climb with views and water rewards, Boulder’s trails are flowing with options.

Want more local recs? Check out our Things to Do in Boulder, Best Restaurants, and Date-Worthy Spots for even more ideas.

Let’s dig in!

— The What’s Happenin’ Boulder Team 😉

❓Trivia Time

👉 Scroll to the bottom of the newsletter for the answer and a fun fact! 🌳

💦 Best Boulder Hikes with Water Features

Need a hike with a splash of something extra? Whether you’re craving misty falls, babbling creeks, or lakeside views, Boulder’s got a trail for that. Perfect for hot days, light splashing, or just soaking in those cooling Colorado vibes, here are some of the best hikes where water steals the show:

trail is super short but leads to a dramatic 70-foot waterfall. Great for families, visitors, or anyone short on time but big on scenic payoffs.

🥾 Royal Arch Trail – Sure, it’s famous for the rock formation, but it also features some creekside cool-downs along the climb. 3.3 miles of elevation, switchbacks, and splashy moments.

🌲 Gregory Canyon → Range View → Flagstaff Loop – A solid 3.8-mile loop with varied terrain and great peeks at Boulder Creek. A local favorite for good reason.

🚵 Boulder Canyon Drive Path – Stretch your legs on this 14.8-mile out-and-back along Boulder Creek. Flat, scenic, and ideal for walkers, joggers, and casual creek peepers.

🐻 Bear Peak Canyon Loop – Want distance and views with your hydration break? This 8.4-mile beast offers it all—streams, peaks, and terrain that changes mile by mile.

🌿 Anne U. White Trail – A gorgeous 3.2-mile trail with creek crossings and forest vibes. Great for early mornings or shaded weekend wanders.

💧 Walker Ranch & Canyon Falls – This 3.5-mile trail near Boulder gives you rugged terrain with bonus waterfall views. Expect a little cardio—and a lot of scenery.

🏞️ Brainard Lake Area – Worth the drive. Waterfalls, mountain lakes, pine-scented air, and snowmelt-fed creeks that look straight out of a Colorado postcard.

💡 Pro Tips for Water Feature Wandering:

• Bring extra socks… just in case.

• Check for seasonal closures or muddy conditions (especially Anne U. White).

• Boulder Falls can be crowded—try early morning for the win

• Always practice Leave No Trace. 💚

Know a great hike with a splashy secret? Reply and share—we love a good off-the-radar recommendation! 🌊👣

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