Chautauqua Trail via 6th Street Connector

Put your endurance to the test along the Chautauqua Trail via 6th Street Connector. Short but steep, this path has the ideal ratio of scenery and strenuity. Pack plenty of water and wear layers as insurance against the chilly terrain at higher altitudes. So conveniently located just outside the city center, this revered path is frequented by tourists and locals alike. If you are seeking a more secluded expedition, head out into the wilderness on an early weekday morning to beat the crowds. Additionally, when hiking in the winter months, crampons are a lifesaver.

Embark on your journey along the Chautauqua Trail via 6th Street Connector from the trailhead off Baseline Road. Here, track the 6th Street Connector down to the intersection with the Chautauqua Trail. Here, take a hard left along the Chautauqua Trail which wanders through grasslands, revealing wonderful views of the sandstone slabs above. Follow this route all the way to the trail’s end where you will take the rightmost Flatirons Loop Trail. Shortly after tracking this path, you will be confronted with another junction, here stay left and you will be diverted onto 1st/2nd Flatiron Trail.

This route will ping-pong hikers off the craggy cliffs of the sandstone slabs before arriving at the peak. Scramble up the vertiginous terrain and from the overlook, enjoy expansive vistas of the Boulder cityscape below. After reveling in the expansive vistas, retrace your footing along the route all the way back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.