Shanahan Ridge Trail

Boulder, Colorado

4.0/5

based on 1 reviews

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Details

Distance

3.84 miles

Elevation Gain

715 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Madison Sankovitz

This is a scenic walk on the edge of Boulder that leads through the forest and to the base of the foothills.

Starting on the edge of a neighborhood in South Boulder, this 3.8 mile loop begins its 869 foot elevation gain by meandering through a pine forest. You can 'choose your own adventure' by exploring the handful of trails that meet up with the Shanahan Ridge Trail, such as the South Mesa Trail, Shadow Canyon Trail, and Fern Gulch Trail. If you keep heading west, the trail will pass by a large slab of rock at the base of Bear Peak that is great for bouldering. With its flat grade, this trail is great for people of all skill levels and perfect for both walking and running. It's a great way to escape to the Boulder open space!

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Forest

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Shanahan Ridge Trail Reviews

Explorer

Jared Blitz

Explorer

Shanahan Ridge Trail

08/28/17

Moved to Denver a month ago and hadn't yet gone on a solo hike. Thanks to Madison's encouragement, I decided to try the Shanahan Ridge Trail since I'm out of shape. It's a fun day hike in a beautiful area with wildlife aplenty. Notably, I came across Bluejays and had a black bear run in my direction about 30 feet below the hiking path. The trail is nicely forested, so most of the time you're not exposed to the heat. I'm looking forward to going back when Mallory Cave opens Oct 1st, which another Outbound Explorer recommended.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Shanahan Ridge Trail

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Download the Outbound mobile app

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Shanahan Ridge Trail Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Boulder's Skyline Traverse

Mars Blocks via Bear Canyon Trailhead

Catch a Boulder Sunrise from NCAR

Woods Quarry via NCAR

South Boulder Creek - Mesa Trail - Lower Big Bluestem Loop

Scramble Angel's Way

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