Boulder Area Hikes
Royal Arch
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The hike to Royal Arch is a Boulder classic. The trailhead for the hike is Chautauqua Park, located at 9th and Baseline. The hike is scenic, convenient and moderately challenging (although ice in the winter makes it more so). Royal Arch is hidden from view and is located in a notch to the South of the Third Flatiron.
From the Chautauqua parking area continue up the old paved road toward the Bluebell Shelter. Just past the shelter is the sign marking the trail toward Royal Arch. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles each way. The first part of the hike is through an attractive side canyon shaded from the sun. After awhile, you will come to a large rock formation and a sign pointing your way down into a new valley. At this point you have a birds-eye-view of NCAR and the plains toward Denver. After a bit of downhill you will begin to wind uphill to the arch. The view from the arch is unique and the hidden nature of the arch makes me feel like I found a secret spot. Give it a try, I’d recommend it!
