Trail Description

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Colorado hikers need not go to Utah to see arches. Hidden in Boulder's Flatirons area lies Royal Arch - A 20 ft rock arch that beautifully frames the Boulder valley to the southeast and massive Flatirons to the north.

This well-marked trail begins on Bluebell Road next to the Ranger's Cottage at the main Chautauqua parking lot. Set out on Bluebell Road for a steady climb towards the Flatirons.

At .6 miles, the Mesa Trail splits to the left and a primitive restroom (pit toilet) is provided. Stay straight past the Mesa Split and shortly thereafter is access to the Bluebell Shelter. The Bluebell Shelter, constructed in 1921 by the local Lions Club, is a covered, stone walled structure available for group picnics and activities. This wheelchair accessible shelter accomodates up to 50 people and is 'hike-in' only.

Just past the shelter at .7 miles is the official Royal Arch trailhead sign. At this point, the trail's steeper grade begins; preparing to rise approximately 1000' in one mile.

After passing through a narrow scree field, multiple steep switchbacks lead up Bluebell Canyon through a shaded pondersosa pine forest to a false summit named Sentinel Pass. This is not the end of the trail. At Sentinel Pass, the trail turns left and descends about 100' before rising sharply again for the final approach to Royal Arch. Just before reaching the arch, the trail passes through beautiful Tangen Spring, a natural spring whose area is filled with wildflowers.

Royal Arch is impressive, and sweeping views of Boulder are spectacular. On a clear day, downtown Denver is also visible. Walk under the Arch and choose from several rock outcroppings to enjoy the view.

GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84

• N39 59.928 W105 16.970 - Chautauqua Trailhead (0.0 miles : 5,710')

• N39 59.503 W105 17.123 - Split for Mesa Trail (.6 miles : 5,983')

• N39 59.464 W105 17.249 - Official Trailhead for Royal Arch ( .7 miles : 6,083')

• N39 59.357 W105 17.321 - Flatirons 2 & 3 Access (.9 miles : 6,177')

• N39 59.038 W105 17.523 - Sentinel Pass, turn left (1.45 miles : 6,663')

• N39 58.922 W105 17.483 - Standing under Royal Arch (1.75 miles : 6,950')

Worth Noting

• The Royal Arch Trail is a great place to observe climbers on the Flatirons.

Rules and Regulations

• No camping or backpacking allowed. Day use only.


• Dogs are allowed. Leash, voice and sight control regulations are strictly enforced.

Directions to Trailhead

From Boulder Take Baseline Road west past 9th street and Chautauqua Park is on the left hand side. Turn left into Chautauqua Park. Overflow parking is also available along Baseline Road, south of the park entrance.

From Denver: Take I-25 North to Highway 36 towards Boulder. From Highway 36, take the Baseline Road exit and turn left. Take Baseline Road west past 9th street and Chautauqua Park is on the left hand side. Turn left into Chautauqua Park. Overflow parking is also available along Baseline Road, south of the park entrance.

Contact Information

Boulder County Parks & Open Space
5201 St. Vrain Road
Longmont, Colorado 80503
Phone: 303.678.6200
Fax: 303.678.6180
www.co.boulder.co.us/openspace