Flagstaff Road Scenic Drive – Davidson Mesa Overlook loop from Wetland Preserve
Flagstaff Road Scenic Drive – Davidson Mesa Overlook loop from Wetland Preserve
2.8
(4)
77
riders
Flagstaff Road Scenic Drive – Davidson Mesa Overlook loop from Wetland Preserve
03:00
52.4km
730m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.44 km
Frank Varra Park Pathway
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
18.3 km
Flagstaff Road Scenic Drive
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
32.4 km
Boulder Creek Path: 28th Street to Foothills Parkway
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
37.0 km
Centennial Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
44.9 km
Davidson Mesa Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
52.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
38.8 km
10.9 km
1.28 km
760 m
603 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
32.3 km
19.7 km
352 m
147 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,040 m)
Lowest point (1,600 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
28°C
12°C
79 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Flagstaff Road Scenic Drive – Davidson Mesa Overlook loop from Wetland Preserve is a unique road cycling route that stitches together two very different Boulder experiences. This moderate 32.5-mile (52.4 km) ride, with its 2401 feet (732 metres) of elevation gain, takes roughly 2 hours and 59 minutes, offering a challenging climb followed by more relaxed terrain. It's best suited for experienced road cyclists looking for a varied day out, combining a classic Boulder ascent with panoramic views.
What to expect on Flagstaff Road Scenic Drive – Davidson Mesa Overlook loop from Wetland Preserve
Expect a ride of two halves. The initial ascent up Flagstaff Road is a serious test, with sections reaching 15% grade, rewarding your effort with iconic views of the Flatirons and Boulder spread out below. As you climb, you'll pass through forested slopes, eventually seeing the snowcapped Indian Peaks and Rocky Mountain National Park from higher viewpoints like Lost Gulch Overlook. The descent is an adrenaline rush, but the route then transitions to the much flatter, multi-use trails around Davidson Mesa. While primarily gravel, this section offers easily accessible panoramic views of the Front Range mountains and Boulder, including Longs Peak on clear days, making it a good option for those who appreciate varied terrain and stunning vistas.
Planning your visit
Given the significant difference in terrain, this specific loop is not a commonly recognized road cycling route; be prepared for the gravel sections of Davidson Mesa if you are on a pure road bike. Flagstaff Road itself is a popular climb, and while traffic is typically mild, the road is narrow with little to no shoulder. Consider riding during evenings or weekends, as Flagstaff Road has historically seen weekday closures for cars and cyclists. Parking is available near the Wetland Preserve, but always check local conditions and advisories before you head out.
Trail details
- Distance: 32.5 miles (52.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 2401 feet (732 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 59 minutes
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