Fall is right around the corner, which means you can finally trail run in peace. Us Colorado natives know it’s been a hot and sweaty summer, but it’s gradually starting to cool off and make our outdoor activities much more bearable.
Now is the time to step up your trail running game, and Voltage Limited has your back! So, let us enlighten you on some of our go-to trail running routes in the Denver and Boulder area – whether you want a small little number, or a lengthy run with steep elevation, we got you.
Here are our top 7 picks for trail running in Colorado, in no particular order:
1. Mesa Trail
If you’re in Boulder, the Mesa Trail is a must-visit for trail runners. Stretching from the South Mesa Trailhead in Eldorado Springs to Bluebell Road in Chautauqua, this route traverses across the foothills of the Flatirons and totals in 6.4 miles long.
For those of you who don’t want to hitch a ride back to your car from the opposite end of the trail, it still makes for a great out-and-back route. It doesn’t matter what end you start on, both have gorgeous views and a similar elevation gain (although we recommend starting on the South Mesa Trailhead side to avoid hectic Chautauqua parking).
- Total Distance: 6.4 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,272 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
2. Green Mountain via Green Mountain Hayden Trail Loop
If you have commitment issues, settle on running the Green Mountain Hayden Trail Loop… It’s only 3.3 miles long and can easily be done before or after work. The trail’s uneven terrain and small hills make it moderately challenging, yet it’s short enough to fit into your busy schedule
Hayden Park is a beautiful open space in Lakewood, and the trail leads you across a ridgeline to the Green Mountain Crest. You can run the loop in any direction you want, but starting on the Hayden Trail and coming down the Green Mountain Trail is a bit easier. Another piece of key information is that this trail lacks trees. It’s best to do this trail run in cooler weather or times of the day, since you will be exposed to the sun for a majority of the distance. And don’t forget to gear up with essentials like our KOM Socks, designed to keep your feet cooled and breathing no matter the distance!
- Total Distance: 3.3 mi
- Elevation Gain: 636 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
3. Waterton Canyon
Waterton Canyon Trail is perfect for anyone wanting an easy yet long-distance run. It’s a12.5 out-and-back trail tucked right outside of Denver, and considered easy. The trail itself is a wide and flat service road that flows through a beautiful passageway of wildlife, so it’s not a surprise to see bighorn sheep, mule deer, smaller animals, and a wide variety of birds.
It follows a river, and provides plenty of scenic spots along the way to take a peaceful break. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed on this trail to ensure to protect the bighorn sheep in the area.
- Total Distance: 12.5 mi
- Elevation Gain: 787 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
4. Mount Falcon Castle Trail
Mount Falcon Castle Trail is a 7.4 mile long loop that rewards you with stunning views right from the start.. It’s not the shadiest, and begins with a steeper start, but has a great smooth descent as you loop around. Along the way, you’ll pass by old castle ruins – hence the name Castle Trail. Plus, you’ll get some awesome views of the Red Rocks Amphitheater!
This trail is very dog-friendly, just be aware of bikers! There are plenty of cyclists who hit this trail, but it’s wide enough for two way traffic and shouldn’t be an issue.
- Total Distance: 7.4 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,745 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
5. Walker Ranch Loop
Walker Ranch Loop is a Boulder classic and known for its rugged beauty. It’s a 7.8 mile long loop with some breathtaking views, but will make you work for them! This is considered a difficult trail with a 1,600 feet elevation gain, and some steep inclines, making it ideal for those wanting to push themselves a bit harder.
You’ll encounter a few staircases, some technical fields filled with boulders, and flowy trails. With a stream next to the trail, Walker Ranch Loop will give you a bit of everything! If you’re looking for a challenging route that has some variety to it, this one is for you.
- Total Distance: 7.8 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,600 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Difficult
6. Eldorado Canyon Trail
Eldorado Canyon Trail offers a 6.6-mile out-and-back adventure with plenty of shade, canyon views, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The trail features some difficult terrain with steep and rocky sections, but is overall a moderately challenging route.
Given its popularity, especially on weekends and holidays, you should plan your visit in advance. No reservations are needed on Fridays, but they are required on weekends and holidays, so be sure to secure your spot ahead of time!
- Total Distance: 6.6 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,978 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
7. Marshall Mesa and Dowdy Draw Trail (multiple trails)
Located near Boulder, the Marshall Mesa and Dowdy Draw Trail offer multiple route options for varying skill levels. These trails wind through open meadows and rolling hills, providing a mix of flat stretches and gentle inclines. Perfect for a peaceful run, this area is also known for its scenic panoramas and diverse wildlife.
It’s the ultimate “choose your battles” of trail running, since you can combine different trail sections to customize your distance and challenge level.
- Total Distance: Varies
- Elevation Gain: Varies
- Level of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Running Gear
Hopefully you’re fired up to do some insane trail running this fall while the weather is at its prime! Whether you're conquering rocky inclines or breezing through flat terrains, make sure you’re geared up for the adventure. Check out our trail running collection to prepare with what could be your new secret weapon socks on the trails – blister-busting, sweat-wicking, and tough enough to keep up with your wildest runs.
VOLTAGE LIMITED TRAIL RUNNING COLLECTION