Green Mountain Boulder – Snowshoeing
Winter Activities in Boulder – Snowshoeing Green Mountain
Intro
Boulder tends to get a few weeks each year where the city has enough powder to use snowshoes right in our own backyards. Luckily, the lofty reaches of 8,144 ft. Green Mountain provide a playground that is suitable for snowy fun throughout the winter — though sometimes a combination of micro-spikes at the bottom of the trail and snowshoes at the top are best. But if there is a big storm, the snowshoeing potential — from bottom to top — is excellent.
What Makes It Great
The standard starting point for winter adventures is the Gregory Canyon Trailhead. As of 2014, the short access road to this trailhead was still damaged from the floods of 2013. Park along the road or at Chautauqua Park for access until it is repaired. It is legal to walk/hike along the closed access road. The best part about hiking Green Mountain is the variety of ways to get to the top. The trails are about 3.2 – 3.5 miles long one way and there are plenty of choices: the steep stairs of the Amphitheater, the gradual grind up Gregory Canyon or the twisty rocks of Saddle Rock. Where these trails merge, the dog friendly Ranger Trail or the hiker-only E.M. Greenman trails will lead to the summit. No matter how you get there, there’s over 2,200 vertical feet to be gained and weather at the top can be quite a bit colder than at the bottom.
Green Mountain is a treat in the winter. Many aspects of the lower trail still have gashes and damage from the floods; covered in a coat of white snow, they take on new shapes and forms. Spectacular views of the Indian Peaks to the west and Rocky Mountain National Park to the north poke through the trees until coming into full focus near the summit. All the trails alternately climb and flatten out, meaning there are plenty of good spots to catch your breath. And because everything but the summit block is in the trees, you’ll be protected from the icy chill of winter winds.
Because it is a mountain hike, bring along plenty of warm layers, a headlamp and a warm thermos of tea. Some sections of the trail can get slick when trodden sections ice over and freeze; put those cleats on your snowshoes to good use in these areas!
Who is Going to Love It
Green Mountain is a true winter adventure — without the danger of avalanches, tough access roads or tricky navigation. It’s a great workout with fantastic winter views, so those who want to get a winter mountain fix without leaving town will love Green Mountain.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
From the intersection of Highway 36 and West Baseline Road, turn west onto West Baseline Road and follow it a little over a mile to Chautauqua Park. As of 2014, parking is available along the road or at the park. The Gregory Canyon Trailhead was closed but will reopen in the future. To reach the trailhead, walk along the road west to a bend. Gregory Canyon Trailhead is blocked to vehicles but is signed and can be accessed by foot.
Dog regulations vary from trail to trail but they are allowed. Dogs with city of Boulder off-leash program tags are allowed off leash in certain areas. Please consult this map to see what areas are on-leash and off leash.
Winter activities in Boulder including snowshoeing Green Mountain are a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors close to town and close to the lodge. Stop by the front desk to pick up a pair of snowshoes for the day and for other tips on fun things to do during your stay.
Written by James Dziezynski for RootsRated and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to [email protected].
Featured image provided by Zach Dischner
Asa Firestone was born with an entrepreneurial spirit and has cultivated hospitality expertise in the picturesque landscapes of Lyons and Boulder, Colorado. As the co-owner of the A Lodge, his journey epitomizes dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to community.
Asa’s journey began with a profound appreciation for travel and exploration. His early experiences staying in lodges around the world ignited a passion for creating memorable experiences for others. Armed with this passion and a keen business acumen, he embarked on a mission to redefine hospitality in his own backyard.
In 2008, Asa’s vision came to fruition with the establishment of the A Lodge in Boulder, Colorado. Nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains, this Boulder hotel quickly garnered acclaim for its blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Under Asa’s guidance, the A Lodge became more than just a place to stay; it became a destination where guests could immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of Colorado while experiencing genuine hospitality.
However, Asa’s ambitions didn’t stop there. Recognizing the growing demand for unique accommodations in Boulder, he expanded his footprint by acquiring and revitalizing a second property in the heart of Lyons. This expansion not only solidified Asa’s reputation as a visionary entrepreneur but also furthered his mission of providing exceptional hospitality experiences to a broader audience.
Beyond his role as a hospitality magnate, Asa Firestone is deeply invested in the communities he serves. Whether through supporting local initiatives, fostering sustainable practices, or championing the arts, he remains dedicated to making a positive impact at both the local and global levels.
Asa’s leadership exemplifies a harmonious blend of passion, innovation, and compassion. His unwavering commitment to excellence continues to set the standard for hospitality in Lyons, Boulder, and beyond. As guests continue to flock to the A Lodge, they are not only welcomed into a warm and inviting space but also into the visionary world of Asa Firestone.