Bear Canyon Trail to Bear Peak West Ridge

The Bear Canyon Trail to Bear Peak West Ridge is an exciting adventure just outside Boulder’s city limits. Conveniently situated, the path is a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Reconnect with nature and fill your lungs with the fresh mountain air as you trek this path. Traveling through woodlands, grasslands, and granite outcroppings, this route exhibits the diversity of the Colorado wilderness. Open year-round, be sure to strap on some microspikes in the winter months to navigate the likely icy terrain.

Embark on your adventure along the Bear Canyon Trail to Bear Peak West Ridge from the NCAR Trailhead. From here, track southwest along the NCAR Trail. The initial segment of the path reveals awe-inspiring vistas of the Flatirons looming above. When you meet the intersection with Mesa Trail, turn left onto the route. Now hiking through ponderosa pines, you will eventually intersect with Bear Creek. At the next junction, veer right, and you will be diverted onto the Bear Canyon Trail. Now trekking through the canyon, you will be rewarded with the ambiance of the gurgling creek.

Let the sounds of the running water lull you into a state of relaxation as you walk. Soon, you will meet the trail’s end at the intersection with the Bear Creek West Ridge Trail. From here, simply retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.