Near Second-Third Flatiron Mesa Loop
A snowy start of the Mesa Trail looking at the first Flatiron.
Near Second-Third Flatiron Mesa Loop
Morning at the Flatirons.
Near Second-Third Flatiron Mesa Loop
First snow of the year in the Flatirons.
Near Second-Third Flatiron Mesa Loop
Chautauqua Park
Near Second-Third Flatiron Mesa Loop
This is how you know a run/hike is going to be good, right from the get go. Flatirons from Bluebell Road.

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Hike Route

Second-Third Flatiron Mesa Loop

4.1 (17 Ratings)
See the Flatirons up close and get a quick tour of the varied terrain accessible from the Chautauqua Trailhead.
2.2
mi
Distance
690
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Geologically SignificantViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.16mi
Distance
690ft
Elevation Gain
690ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
6,391ft
High Point
5,693ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This loop encapsulates multiple different trails all accessible from the Chautauqua Trailhead. Start by heading up the wide, paved Chautauqua Trail and continue following it as it turns right and passes over a small bridge. At the intersection with the Bluebell-Baird Trail and Flatirons Loop Trail, head to the left and uphill. Before long, the 1st/2nd Flatiron trail joins in from the right - you continue going straight and will cross a short talus field. After the talus field, you'll arrive at the base of the 2nd Flatiron... you might see climbers starting their ascent from the trail here! Not long after passing the 2nd Flatiron, you'll start losing elevation and will pass the 3rd Flatiron Climber's Access trail on the trail. Continue downhill until you reach an intersection with the Royal Arch Trail and turn left. When you reach the small shelter (no facilities) at the intersection with Bluebell Road, turn left and go up a few wood steps to join the Bluebell-Baird Trail again.Cross the small clearing on the Bluebell-Baird Trail and then turn right onto the Bluebell Mesa trail, shortly after re-entering the trees. When the Bluebell Spur trail joins from the right, you'll swing to the left and pop out of the trees, giving you a great view of the whole Chautauqua. At the end of the Bluebell Mesa trail, turn right back onto the Chautauqua Trail and follow it to the trailhead.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Zach Tucker