Boulder Star Hike

The Boulder Star Hike is a must-do when in the Boulder area over the holidays. It is one thing to view the star from the city but seeing it up close and personal reveals an impressive perspective. Though the star is only lit up in the winter months, this trail exposes epic views and scenery year-round. Many hikers try to go off-trail and hike up to the light itself, but rangers discourage this as it can be detrimental to the fragile ecosystem, and many people get stuck on the steep ridge. If the terrain is snowy, consider microspikes to safely navigate the icy terrain.

Begin your journey along the Boulder Star Hike from the Flagstaff Trailhead. From here, track northwest through the meadowlands along the Flagstaff Trail. Soon after your departure from the trailhead, you will have to navigate a set of switchbacks beneath the timberline. Hike through the sparse tree coverage which exposes wonderful views of the Boulder cityscape below. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection, keep right here and you will be diverted onto the Panorama Trail. At the next junction soon after, merge onto the Halfway House Trail.

Now exposed, the barren terrain will reward incredible views of the Boulder Star directly above. Revel in the sights of the star that lights up the mountainside and enjoy the views of the city lit up below. To get back to the trailhead, simply retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.