On Two Feet

[Hike] Mallory Cave Trail

Mallory Cave Trail is an intense trail on the NCAR Mesa Trail System in Boulder, Colorado. 

From the trailhead sign, you’ll hike out on the NCAR Trail before coming to a “trails intersection” where you continue straight on Mallory Cave Trail. This is where the terrain turns from a wide, dirt path to a narrow rocky path.  One of my favorite parts was seeing the actual rock climbers – so cool – and something I’d like to try someday! 

Near the cave and end of the trail, you come to a large rock formation. I don’t know how to rock climb and didn’t want to get hurt so I decided NOT to climb up for a “better view”. I was kind of bummed not to “finish” but my husband was happy I made the safe choice! 

Full disclosure here: I didn’t set out to hike Mallory Cave nor did I have any idea what the trail entailed when I chose to hike up the canyon! I knew I wanted to hike the NCAR Mesa and knew how to get to the trailhead and where to park but that was it! If I had to do it over, I’d pick a different trail and skip this one given the rock formation stood in my way from finishing.  

Good to Know

Distance: 3.2 miles from the trailhead out and back

Elevation Gain: 840ft

Terrain: Packed dirt trail

Parking: Available at the NCAR Trailhead

Facilities: NOT available at the NCAR Trailhead

Fun Facts: Great trail to see rock climbers in action!

Strava Link 

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