Near Betasso Preserve
Cruising along Benjamin Loop, look off to the side to enjoy great views.
Near Betasso Preserve
The meadow
Near Betasso Preserve
Arriving at the Benjamin loop from the connector.
Near Betasso Preserve
The climbs are gradual.
Near Betasso Preserve
Progression of the Betasso climb in three shots.

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Hike Route

Betasso Preserve

4.2 (90 Ratings)
This hike is easily accessible from Boulder and offers amazing singletrack with beautiful views.
7.1
mi
Distance
863
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
7.07mi
Distance
863ft
Elevation Gain
863ft
Elevation Loss
65%
Max Grade
6,597ft
High Point
6,161ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The trailhead offers a bathroom, picnic area, and plenty of parking. Unfortunately there is no access to drinking water. The Canyon Loop opens up to a fork in the road. The trail is one giant loop and either direction is appropriate for travel. Canyon Loop Trail totals 3.3 miles and begins on the rim of the preserve. The first half of the trail quickly drops in altitude and the second half of the trail is spent gaining altitude. The trail is mainly comprised of singletrack and has numerous opportunities for amazing views. The trail is made up of compact dirt with some rocks and roots showing.Near the half waypoint of the Canyon Loop, the Benjamin Trail Link intersects. This is 0.75 miles of singletrack that brings you directly to the Benjamin Loop. The Benjamin Loop is by far the best part of this hike offering 2.4 miles of heavily forested singletrack. The trail has similar signage as the Canyon Loop, dictating the direction of travel for bicycles. The trail is comprised of a series of switchbacks that gradually climb up the rim and then descend into another series of switchbacks. The trail is hard compact dirt with a bridge feature.At the end of your hike, nab one more view by heading over to Bummers Rock.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Duncan Moore