Boulder Creek Path – Chapman Drive Trail loop from Hotel Boulderado
Boulder Creek Path – Chapman Drive Trail loop from Hotel Boulderado
2.9
(20)
52
riders
Boulder Creek Path – Chapman Drive Trail loop from Hotel Boulderado
01:53
27.4km
620m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: March 27, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
4.83 km
Boulder Creek Path
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
13.4 km
Picnic Table With a View of the Mountains
Highlight • Viewpoint
15.3 km
Chapman Drive Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
19.4 km
Chapman Drive Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
27.4 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.1 km
10.9 km
3.10 km
908 m
236 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
12.7 km
8.79 km
5.55 km
303 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,100 m)
Lowest point (1,650 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
34°C
20°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 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
If you're seeking a serious gravel biking challenge that transitions from urban paths to a significant mountain climb, the Boulder Creek Path – Chapman Drive Trail loop from Hotel Boulderado is a difficult 17.0-mile (27.4 km) route. It packs in 2030 feet (619 metres) of climbing, achievable in approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes for fit riders. This loop is ideal for experienced gravel bikers looking for diverse terrain and expansive mountain views right from downtown Boulder.
What to expect on Boulder Creek Path – Chapman Drive Trail loop from Hotel Boulderado
Starting from Hotel Boulderado, you'll quickly join the Boulder Creek Path, enjoying a smooth, paved ride along the scenic creek before it transitions to packed gravel as you venture into Boulder Canyon. The true test comes with the 2.6-mile Chapman Drive Trail, a car-free dirt and gravel fire road that climbs consistently with an average 7% gradient, gaining nearly 1,000 feet to Realization Point. This sustained ascent, while non-technical, demands very good fitness. Your reward is panoramic vistas of the Rocky Mountains and Indian Peaks from Flagstaff Road, which offers a fast, steep descent back into Boulder.
Planning your visit
This loop offers convenient access directly from Hotel Boulderado, seamlessly integrating urban and mountain riding. Chapman Drive Trail is a unique car-free mountain climb, providing a peaceful ascent through the forest. Be aware that the descent on Flagstaff Road can be very fast due to steep grades, requiring advanced riding skills. Conditions on Chapman Drive can also become tougher if wet, so check the weather before you go.
Trail details
- Distance: 17.0 miles (27.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 2030 feet (619 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 52 minutes
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