Three Peaks Loop Trail

Route Description for Three Peaks Loop Trail

The Three Peaks Loop Trail is a stunning adventure that reveals epic vistas of the encompassing wilderness and landscapes, from the Boulder cityscape to the snow-capped Front Range peaks that flank the verdant foothills. Perfect for those seeking to challenge themselves, the Three Peaks Loop Trail will tire even the most experienced hikers. As you will be traveling along exposed summits and ridges, it is recommended to check the forecast and hike in the early morning to avoid afternoon storms. Additionally, wear layers as insurance against varying conditions and consider microspikes in the late fall and winter months.

Begin your journey along the Three Peaks Loop Hike from the Amphitheatre Trailhead. Though this route can be completed from either direction, we highly suggest trekking clockwise! From the trailhead, keep right and hike along the Amphitheatre Trail. Hike this path southwest merging onto the Saddle Rock Trail after a few kilometers. Soon after you will want to hook onto the E.M Greenman Trail, which will deliver you to the summit to Green Mountain. From here, take the Green Mountain West Ridge Trail down the western flank of the peak before turning left onto the Green Bear Trail. This path will guide adventurers to Bear Creek where you will want to keep right at the intersection, which will divert you onto the Bear Peak West Ridge Trail.

This route will climb up the western flank of Bear Peak. From the summit, revel in the panoramic views before taking the South Boulder Peak Trail to the highest summit of the three. Rest and rehydrate here before beginning your descent. Track the Shadow Canyon Trail east and be mindful of your footing on the steep terrain. At the bottom of the Canyon, veer left and merge onto the Mesa Trail, which will lead you north along the base of the foothills. At the trail’s end, merge onto the Bluebell Hiking Trail, then left onto the Meadow Trail, which will deliver hikers back to the trailhead.