The South Boulder Creek , Mesa and Big Bluestem trails form a mild loop through open space between the eastern plains and Boulder foothills. Visitors will enjoy rangy panoramas of the Flatirons, Green Mountain, Bear Peak, South Boulder Peak and Eldorado Mountain complex. Multiple trail connections and extensions offer additional routing options of varying length and difficulty along or up into the foothills.

Springtime brings wildflowers and brilliant green landscapes to the South Boulder Creek - Big Bluestem Loop

The South Boulder Creek Trail heads west as it connects briefly with the Mesa Trail

Late spring - views north towards Boulder's Flatirons from the Mesa Trail

The Big Bluestem Trail skirts the wooded foothills before turning back through open prairie

The loop trail gives perspective on Boulder's geology - showcasing massive granite formations

A late spring snow covers the Big Bluestem Trail

While not seen on this loop trail, South Boulder Creek can be accessed via the Mesa Trail towards the South Mesa Trailhead - a short side-trip from the main loop

A young mule deer buck beds down in a cold winter breeze

The South Boulder Creek - Big Bluestem Loop offers sweeping views of Boulder's Front Range

Eldorado Mountain shaking off low clounds on a winter morning

Winter makes wildlife viewing easier and brings raptors such as Bald Eagles into the Front Range

A lone Pinyon Pine tree stands guard over Eldorado Mountain, masked in morning fog