Near Woods Quarry
View of NCAR from up on the Mesa Trail near Kohler branch.
Near Woods Quarry
Wildflowers and butterflies are plentiful along portions of Mesa Trail during the spring and early summer months.
Near Woods Quarry
Braided trail at the start of the Woods Quarry Trail
Near Woods Quarry
Descending the Woods Quarry Trail
Near Woods Quarry
A well deserved rest!

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Hike Trail

Woods Quarry

4.4 (14 Ratings)
Cool stone chairs and an awesome view reward those who climb this short, steep Mesa Trail detour.
0.4
mi
Distance
154
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.39mi
Distance
154ft
Elevation Gain
224ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
6,391ft
High Point
6,162ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
When hiking the upper reaches of the Mesa Trail, consider this whimsical detour to visit sandstone recliners and take in great views. From the little stone house (Roosa Cabin) at the junction of the Mesa Trail and Woods Quarry Trail, head steeply uphill, using steps to ascend. Take the next left for a short out-and-back to reach the site of the former quarry. Here you'll find several fun seating options. Pretend you're Goldilocks and find the one that's juuust right! After enjoying the views, retrace your steps north and continue the Woods Quarry Trail by going uphill briefly and then contouring the hillside. After some gentle downhill, arrive at an optional 3rd Flatiron viewpoint, about 50 yards off the trail where the Woods Quarry Trail turns east to join the Mesa Trail. Historical notes: The quarry provided sandstone for Boulder's buildings and sidewalks in the 1890's before more conveniently located quarries forced it to close in 1920. The Roosa Cabin was once a homesteader's residence and was occupied as late as 1970.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
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Contributors
Megan W