The Views You Crave; The Workout You Want

By Bette Erickson

If you are seeking a local hike that offers a most lasting impression, Bear Peak may be the one. This tough trail leading to its 8,461 foot summit will leave you huffing and puffing, yet awestruck at its surrounding beauty from the very top.

This hike presents a formidable workout, accessible nearly anytime of the year, winding its way through Fern Canyon. Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, masks and social distancing are still advisable.

With its pointed profile, Bear Peak is one of Boulder’s most prominent mountains. The steep and seemingly unrelenting Fern Canyon Trail leading to Bear Peak is strenuous, but so satisfying when accomplished. The fern-filled gulch and peaceful, forested footpath offer solitude and an athletic challenge.

To begin, head west on Table Mesa Drive, parking at the north lot of the National Center for Atmospheric Research. From NCAR, take the Walter Orr Roberts Trail, walking along a small mesa leading down to the valley.

Photo by Matthew Clark

Climb a gently sloping ridge to a water tank to join the Mesa Trail, turning left (south). Fern Canyon, with its sheer rock faces rising straight up in some areas, forks off of the south Mesa Trail. Walk southward then go west following the signs to Fern Canyon to begin a brutal, rock-stepping climb. The narrow trail pushes through thick ferns, tall grasses and a variety of berry shrubs rising to the summit of Bear Peak.

Remember to bring along plenty of water for this outing, as well as snacks and sunblock. About two-thirds of the way up is a spacious saddle – a welldeserved resting area. From here, going left, you can make your ascent (you’re almost there: about 1,000 vertical feet to go) to its rock-strewn pointy summit.

A hiker pauses to enjoy the forest with Boulder’s Bear Peak standing tall in the distance.

Bette Erickson/For Our Broomfield™

TO THE TRAILHEAD

Drive to Boulder and take the Table Mesa exit. Continue west two miles past the intersection of Broadway on Table Mesa Drive. Park at NCAR and access the Walter Orr Roberts Trail.

Distance: 5.6 miles roundtrip

Difficulty: Strenuous

Elevation gain: 2,381 feet

Dogs: Yes, on leash

Information: City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks Department, 303-441-3440.

Photo by Matthew Clark