Outdoor Life – Mount Sanitas

Looking for a quick, close to home challenge? This ass-kicking hike will rev up those quads, shred those hammies, and work those glutes! Your buns will be the talk of the town in no time! Lets tackle Mount Sanitas!

Mount Sanitas is a very popular trail close to downtown Boulder. This hike is rated moderate to difficult, with very steep terrain at times. Mount Sanitas is a 3 mile round trip loop with a 1,255 ft. elevation gain. I prefer starting counterclockwise, which is very challenging but gives you an easy cool down with beautiful side views of the Boulder Flatirons. The hike starts up wooden steps and a huge rocky staircase that winds all the way up the mountain. Just when you think you can’t take another step, it keeps going! Make sure you switch legs because you are going up, Up, UP!! Your muscles will burn and you will lose your breath, but don’t give up! The trail flattens out in areas with many ledges that overlook the city. Into Bouldering? There are many spots to chalk up those hands and monkey around on some boulders. There hasn’t been a time I’ve done this hike and not come across a climber or two. When you have finally made it to the top, the view you have been waiting for will bring a smile to your face! Tons of action in Boulder below and to your right, many skyscrapers that make up the city of Denver.  Looking to extend your hike? Mount Sanitas links up with the Dakota Ridge trail. Finish the last mile of your hike along a rolling ridge full of switchbacks and giant boulders overlooking expansive views of Boulder.

Take two hours out of your day and make a trek up to Mount Sanitas! With spectacular views like that, how can it even feel like a workout!

Directions to Mount Sanitas

In Boulder, take Broadway to Mapleton and turn left. This intersection is just north of downtown. Go about five blocks, just past the hospital and there is a parking area on the north and one further west on the north side. The trailhead is on the north side of the road.