Marshall
OFFERS VIEWS AND MORE By Bette Erickson
Whether you choose to go with someone or by yourself, Marshall Mesa in nearby south Boulder is a hiking, biking, equestrian or snowshoer’s Shangri-la.
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Our Broomfield™ Magazine | March 2021
H
ome to the first coal mining activity between 1860 and continuing through the 1930s, the town site that was once called Marshall provided coal for heating, railroads, and steam engines. Now the site offers visitors solitude punctuated with expansive Front Range views. At one time, Marshall had 900 residents and boasted three saloons. Several spots along the trail system offer historical markers with information regarding the settlement. To begin this outing, start from the Marshall Mesa trailhead, following the Marshall Valley Trail east (left) for just less than a mile as it leads you to Community Ditch, crisscrossing another lower irrigation ditch on the way. Next turn west (right), crossing a wooden footbridge and climbing some log steps. Follow the Community Ditch path about a mile to the junction of Greenbelt Plateau. After you veer left, accessing the Greenbelt Plateau route, you`ll encounter the steepest part of the trail — although it really is just a gentle slope — leading you to the top of Marshall Mesa and a vast prairie. Follow the quiet path for about another 1½ miles, enjoying the scenery,
