Boulder, CO: Colorado Front Range Chapter, Big Bluestem Trail

Cancelled (or postponed!) due to heavy rain forecast

As of Friday mid-morning, the forecast is for a fair amount of rain into Sunday. The upper reaches of this loop have steepish stretches which, with wet conditions, will be slippery. And there are sections that will be muddy. (We did say, "Rain or shine - within reason!) We'll likely reschedule this hike in the fall.

This hike is the full 6-mile version of the abbreviated Big Bluestem Loop south of Boulder that we did last November for #optoutside Friday. This full loop might be rated “moderate” given the ~1,000 ft elevation gain and loss. The trail is a mix of packed gravel/dirt and is quite rocky in places. The views of the Flatirons to the north and other rock formations on the east side of Green Mountain will be spectacular.

The trailhead is the parking lot at the intersection of Thomas Lane and CO-93 south of Boulder. From the intersection of Table Mesa Drive and Broadway (CO-93) drive south 2.0 miles to Thomas Lane and the South Boulder Creek West Trailhead on the right/west. The Denver-Boulder Turnpike to McCaslin Blvd to Marshall Road will get you close. Parking in the trailhead lot is free for Boulder County-registered vehicles, $5 (cash) for all others. We'll get started with introductions at 9:00 AM and then head out!

You can download a PDF of the loop here:
https://americanpilgrims.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f72586c5fdb65edaf754ecaed&id=9b2649f99a&e=99e280cdc8.

Be sure to bring the usual: water, first-aid kit, some calories, a hat and sunscreen. Hiking poles would be good if you use them.

We’re going to suggest unwinding afterward at the Southern Sun Pub & Brewery (627 South Broadway) 2 miles north of the trailhead.

If you have definite plans to walk or cycle on the Camino for the first time later in 2019 and would like to receive a scallop shell and a blessing, just let us know through ColoradoFrontRange@americanpilgrims.org.

This is a rain or shine event — within reason! (If we decide to cancel there’ll be an e–mail the day before.) Although not necessary, you may let us know that you’ll be coming through ColoradoFrontRange@americanpilgrims.org. Day of event contact will be Chris at 563-505-6105‬ or Gene at 303-999-5179.

We look forward to seeing a bunch of you there!

What you need to know:
What: Big Bluestem loop. 6-mile hike south of Boulder near Eldorado Springs Drive, 940 ft elevation gain and loss.
When: Saturday, June 22, 9:00 AM
Where: South Boulder Creek West Trailhead at Thomas Lane and S Foothills Hwy (CO-93)
Cost: Cars that do not have Boulder County tags will need to pay a $5 (cash) parking fee.