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Bike touring routes & trails
United States
Colorado
Boulder County
Boulder

Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop

Easy

3.1

(19)

99

riders

Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop

00:44

12.9km

50m

Cycling

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop, a pleasant 8.0-mile (12.9 km) route. You will gain a gentle 174 feet (53 metres) in elevation, making it a comfortable journey that takes approximately 44 minutes. As you cycle, you'll follow the tranquil Boulder Creek, enjoying views of the iconic Flatirons in the distance and passing through the vibrant University of Colorado campus.

This popular multi-use trail is well-integrated into the city, offering straightforward access for your ride. You can find parking at various points, particularly near downtown Boulder and the University of Colorado. Be aware that due to its popularity, especially on weekends, the path can become quite busy, so plan your visit accordingly for a more relaxed experience.

The loop offers a diverse blend of urban and natural landscapes. While the Boulder Creek Path provides scenic waterside stretches, the Goose Creek Greenway guides you through commercial areas, offering a different perspective of the city. Keep an eye out for prairie dogs, which are often spotted in the eastern sections of the Greenway, adding a touch of local wildlife to your outing.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

807 m

East Pearl Street

Highlight (Segment) • Settlement

The east end of Pearl Street before you reach the Pedestrian Mall has seen a lot of growth these last few years. There are great restaurants and coffee shops as well as shopping. There are several large outdoors stores from well-known brands, including Patagonia, Arc'Teryx, Backcounty, Stio, and Mont Bell, all within a few blocks of each other. Boxcar Coffee is an excellent place for a post (or mid) ride latte and pastry, and its right next to Rapha, a high-end cycling clothing shop that also serves coffee.

Tip by

2

7.24 km

Boulder Creek Path (CU to Foothills Parkway)

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The Boulder Creek Path is a popular multi-use path that connects to many other bike trails and major roads in Boulder, allowing users to traverse across Boulder and largely avoid cars. This section of the Boulder Creek Path runs from the CU Boulder Campus (17th Street) to Foothills Parkway next to a creek, over bridges, under tunnels, and past fields.

Tip by

3

12.1 km

Spruce Confections

Highlight • Cafe

Spruce Confections is a local institution in Boulder. Serving great coffee and tea drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and other treats, Spruce Confections is a must-stop if visiting the west end of Pearl Street.

Tip by

B

12.9 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.9 km

896 m

< 100 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

9.44 km

3.16 km

296 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,640 m)

Lowest point (1,590 m)

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Weather

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Today

Thursday 9 July

29°C

16°C

79 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to cycle the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop?

The loop is approximately 12.9 km (8 miles) long and generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete by touring bicycle, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

What is the terrain like on this cycling loop?

The loop is predominantly on paved surfaces, making for a smooth ride. The Boulder Creek Path section is mostly flat, though its western end, which is not part of this specific loop, can become hillier with some dirt and gravel. The Goose Creek Greenway is also wide, paved, and largely flat, offering an easy cycling experience.

Is this loop suitable for beginner cyclists?

Yes, this loop is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners. Both the Boulder Creek Path and the Goose Creek Greenway are well-maintained, mostly flat, and paved, making it an accessible ride for all skill levels.

What kind of scenery can I expect on the loop?

You'll experience a mix of urban and natural landscapes. The Boulder Creek Path follows the tranquil Boulder Creek, offering views of the Rocky Mountains and Flatirons, passing through downtown Boulder, parks, and the University of Colorado campus. The Goose Creek Greenway provides an east-west route through commercial areas, with less shade, and you might even spot prairie dogs in its eastern portion.

Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest along the way?

Yes, the loop passes by several points of interest. On the Boulder Creek Path, you'll go through downtown Boulder, near attractions like Central Park, the Boulder Public Library, and the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. You'll also pass by East Pearl Street and can stop at Spruce Confections. The Goose Creek Greenway connects to other trails and is near local breweries.

Where can I park to access the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop?

Parking is available at various points along the Boulder Creek Path in downtown Boulder and near the University of Colorado campus. Many public parking lots and street parking options are available throughout the city, though some may require payment. Check local Boulder city parking regulations for specific details.

Is the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on both the Boulder Creek Path and the Goose Creek Greenway. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and you are responsible for cleaning up after your pet. Always be mindful of other users on these popular multi-use paths.

What's the best time of year to cycle this loop?

Spring, summer, and fall are ideal for cycling this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While accessible year-round, winter cycling might involve colder temperatures and potential icy patches, especially after snow. The path can get crowded during peak seasons and warm weekends, so consider early mornings or weekdays for a quieter experience.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this cycling route?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop. Both are public multi-use paths maintained by the city of Boulder. You can find more information on the city's official website: bouldercolorado.gov.

How busy does the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop get?

The Boulder Creek Path is a highly popular multi-use trail and can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours, weekends, and holidays. The Goose Creek Greenway is also well-used but generally less congested than the Boulder Creek Path. For a more relaxed ride, consider cycling during off-peak times like early mornings or weekdays.

Does this loop connect to other cycling paths in Boulder?

Yes, this loop is part of Boulder's extensive trail network. It utilizes sections of the Boulder Creek Path and the Goose Creek Greenway, and also connects to other trails like B360, B180, and the Foothills Parkway Path, offering opportunities for longer rides and exploring more of the city.

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