Bear Peak is one of the highest peaks near Boulder, Colorado. The elevation gain from trailhead to the peak is just over 3,000 ft! Be prepared for A LOT of climbing on this route! It is difficult!
There are several trailheads which lead you up to Bear Peak and I choose Cragmoor Rd in south Boulder. It isn’t a traditional trailhead as the trail starts at the end of a residential street where you parallel park on the city street. I recommend choosing the trailhead that is most convenient to you!
You start climbing from the start here and it doesn’t end until you reach Bear Peak. After the first mile or so of a wide, gravel trail, it soon turns to rock and continues until the last mile when this same wide, gravel trail returns and takes you back to your vehicle. There are several sections of the route where it is tough to “find” the trail amongst the rocks and I used my AllTrail app several times to make sure I was going the right way!
As with all peaks, it is much colder and windier at the top, especially after an intense climb with lots of sweat! I didn’t bring extra clothes so it was a quick pit stop at the top before trying to figure out how to continue on the trail and make my way down the other side!
Good to Know
Distance: 8 mile figure-8 loop via Shanahan North Fork, Fern Canyon and North Mesa
Elevation Gain: ~3,000 ft
Terrain: Gravel at the beginning but most rocky terrain
Parking: Available at Cragmoor Rd Trailhead
Facilities: NOT Available at Cragmoor Rd Trailhead
Fun Facts: Although it is a difficult hike, it is great if you are up for a challenge and, big plus, with the loop trail!
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