An excellent opportunity to experience some of Colorado’s wild mountain flora and fauna without the hassle of trekking long distances, pushing through ankle spraining terrain, or journeying too far outside the city of Boulder, the Lions Lair Trail is located only a few minutes from Pearl Street’s west end(The City of Boulder Parks Department’s website provides specific and easy to navigate directions to the trail head: — it’s just a bit west of Mapleton and 4th.). The trail serves as something of a backdoor to the Mount Sanitas summit, covering approximately 2.1 miles up 780 ft. of elevation to a maximum height of 8,683 ft. above sea level. As it is a very recently paved trail, still in the process of opening to the public, I can say that I have never seen any trail so well kept. It is ideal for casual trail running or walking — a smooth dirt surface that follows a very gradual incline. The selling point to me, after reading several reviews of the trail, was that it was seemingly flushed with wild life, so much so reviews warn lone joggers to wear bell as to keep from frightening the bears and mountain lions(the trail was recently closed due to mountain lion kills in its near proximity). The journey lived up to its hype, providing the chance to see all sorts of creatures in their wild habitats: Alberts Squirrels, lizards, a very close and seemingly unfazed deer, and best of all a giant black bear. While inspecting the bear a thumping movement came from his general direction, which elicited my survival instincts to kick in, warning my fellow hiking partners to run for their lives, yet fortunately it was only a very large rock(I believe a bear may accidently have knocked it down the hill). In retrospect, running was probably not the best thing to do; rather it is advised to make your presence known and stand your ground, at least among a black bear. They don’t want to bother anyone — just stay away from their kids. The trail took around two hours to traverse to the summit and back at a casual walking pace, not accounting for the time spent admiring surroundings and eating a lion’s milk bar. Definitely an easy hike, but plan to spend at least an hour. As Mapleton approaches the trailhead, just past the Sunshine Canyon trailheads, parking can be found on either side of the road, as well as at the actual trailhead, although it is limited. Neither dogs nor bikes are allowed on the trail. Be safe, have fun, and keep yourself vigilant.
