The Niwot Ridge Trail climbs 1800’ from the Long Lake Trailhead to a narrow, divisive ridge separating the South St Vrain Creek and North Boulder Creek drainages. The latter valley is part of the Boulder Watershed, a string of six alpine lakes that provide the balance of Boulder County’s water. Closed to the public, the Niwot Ridge Trail offers a rare glimpse down this protected valley. The trail itself passes through the 1200 hectare Niwot Ridge Biosphere Reserve.

A chain of six protected alpine lakes in the Boulder Watershed

View of Arikaree Peak (13,146') and the uppermost lake in the Boulder Watershed

Ptarmigan have feathered feet, which provide extra warmth and floatation on snow

Lichens are comprised of two organisms: a fungus that provides structure, and an algae within the fungus that stores water and gives it color

View of Lefthand Reservoir from the Niwot Ridge Trail

Niwot Ridge provides stunning panoramic views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness

Willow is in a family of plants that contain salicin, a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)

Alpine tundra grasses include the Alpine Blue Grass, Skyline Blue Grass, Spike Trisetum, Tufted Hair Grass, Spreading Wheatgrass, Kobresia and Pyrennian Sedge

Niwot Ridge - a narrow, knife like formation dividing two massive valleys

Alpine tundra surrounds the Niwot Ridge area providing ample room to explore

Isabelle Glacier, visible from the Niwot Ridge Trail

Niwot Ridge narrows into a series of peaks

Ptarmagin will molt into an all-white coat during the winter to remain camouflaged in snow

Looking down into the Green Lakes Watershed Basin