Overview
This trail is one of my favorites! The Walker Ranch Trail is a 7.8 mile loop in Boulder, but you don’t have to hike the entire trail for amazing views! The trail is a great spot to find incredible views with very few crowds. It’s also a good spot for sunset.
Location
The Walker Ranch trail is located about 30 minutes from Boulder up Flagstaff Road. Here's the location on a map.
Permit Requirements
None required.
Pets
Pets are permitted at Walker Ranch Trail but must be on a leash. Walker Ranch is not a popular trail, but it is still possible we will encourage other hikers, bikers, and dogs. The trail can be narrow in places. If you want to bring your dog, I recommend picking the location that is about a mile walk from the trailhead.
Weather and Seasons
Walker Ranch is open and accessible year-round. In the winter, the trail may have snow or ice.
Accessibility
Walker Ranch requires either a 15-minute hike or a 1-mile hike depending on where you want to shoot. The trail isn't particularly difficult, but it's not flat either.
Parking
There is a large parking lot at the trailhead. Parking is free year-round.
Other Notes
- This location requires hiking for at least 15 minutes. Plan accordingly.
- You will not be able to go back to your car, so make sure you can bring everything with you and comfortably hike for at least 15 minutes.
- Walker Ranch can be a little colder than Boulder because the trail is at a slightly higher elevation.
- There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
Reasons to love this location
- Beautiful mountain views in every direction
- Very few people. This spot isn't super popular for photos, but it's one of my favorites.
- Great for sunset or sunrise
- It's beautiful all times of year
- Allows you to do some hiking
Example Galleries
- Summer sunrise engagement session (this is the 1-mile hike location)
- Summer sunset engagement session (1-mile hike option with Lost Gulch Overlook as a second location)
- Summer sunset engagement session with a dog (this is the 1-mile hike location)
- Winter engagement session (this is the 0.5 mile hike option)
