Tired of running the same old routes? Well you should be. Boulder is one of the most beautiful cities across the U.S. and its trails are nothing short of spectacular.
One of the best ways to stay motivated, and in-shape, is changing your routine and finding new places to run. Don’t get me wrong, running down Broadway is great and all, but sometimes changing your routes is all one needs to really enjoy working out.
Here are a few places to run around Boulder that will have you catching you breath and coming back for more:
Boulder Reservoir
You can run, swim, hike and do pretty much anything associated with the outdoors here. There is a five-mile trail that goes around the reservoir and is suitable for any type of runner and remains fairly flat the whole way. It’s definitely a popular spot within Boulder in the summer months because of swimming, so after your run, weather permitting, go for a nice refreshing dip! For more information look here.
BoBolink Trailhead
A fantastic trail on the outskirts of Boulder that will have you coming back for more. Usually a few runners or bikers will be on the trail to give you company if you don’t have a running buddy. The trail goes for a little over three miles so it’s great for short and long runs alike. Not too far if you live close to campus so take a Saturday afternoon off and go check it out for yourself. For directions go here website.
Magnolia Road
A beautiful stretch of road that will make you catch your breath. The fact that the elevation is over 8,000 ft. may have something to do with why you’ll be catching your breath. If you want a run where a multitude of Olympians have ran, then head west down Canyon Blvd. towards Nederland for four miles turning onto Magnolia Road. This is where the first part of your adventure begins. Continue up Magnolia until the pavement ends and you finally hit a dirt road that begins to decline. There are a few scenic areas to park or you can just pull over to the side of the road.
This is without a doubt my favorite place to run because of the rolling hills, great views and wildlife you see from time to time. Keep in mind: the altitude is trying (even if you’re a Boulder native) so be sure to take it easy until you acclimate. The dirt road is easy on the legs and not something you won’t find in spades within the city of Boulder.
Check back next Friday for more tips and tricks to staying in shape!
Contact CU Independent Managing Editor Adrian Kun at Adrian.kun@colorado.edu.
