The City of Boulder announced on social media this weekend that the new Shale Trail north of Boulder is officially open. The trail was constructed by Timberline Trailcraft and the City of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP). OSMP said that the new trail helps to “fulfill past planning commitments” and “supports ongoing efforts to enhance outdoor experiences and protect natural resources in the Boulder Valley Ranch area.”
The trail is 0.71 miles long and climbs from Boulder Valley Ranch to the mesa-top, connecting with Eagle Trail. The trail has 190 feet of elevation gain and is open to hikers, dogs, and horses. Bikes are not allowed on the new trail. The trail will close during muddy conditions.
“Winding through open grasslands and sloped mesa terrain, with a panoramic viewpoint at the top, Shale Trail provides a good opportunity for spring wildflower viewing, and loop hikes combined with Eagle Trail or Cobalt Trail,” OSMP said.
The City of Boulder urged recreators to stay on trail to protect rare Bell’s twinpod plants nearby.
