The best places to view and shoot the Boulder Flatirons
If you’re planning a trip to Denver or Boulder and want to take in the iconic Flatirons in all their glory, look no further. This guide gives you three easy options for viewing these striking formations in the foothills of the Front Range.
View from Highway 93 pull-out just after sunrise in December.
I. Along Highway 93 (Foothills Highway)
Highway 93, also known as Foothills Highway, is one of the most scenic drives in the Denver area, winding through the base of the foothills where they meet the plains. It’s a great way to see the natural landscape of the area, which is a lot more plains-y than people realize. You have a shot at seeing wildlife like deer and coyotes as well. As you get closer to Boulder (coming from Denver), there is a big pull-out alongside the highway. It puts you right in the middle of the Flatirons, so you can take in the full range all at once. Come here at sunrise to see the sunglow illuminate the cows and Flatirons, or come at sunset to see the sun sink behind them and light the clouds on fire. Plus, being outside the city itself, you’ll avoid the larger crowds.
Early morning view from Flatirons Vista trail in October
II. Flatirons Vista Trail
This trail—only a couple of minutes down the road from the pull-out—takes you straight to a viewpoint overlooking the valley below. It’s a mostly flat, super-easy hike for people of all ages, and is great for those still getting acclimated to the altitude. There are plenty of trails that take you even closer to the mountains and are great for biking or walking. I love this spot because the sparsity of the trees make for an epic view–a lone tree, the plains, and the mountains. As a photographer, I’m a sucker for simple compositions like that. I prefer to come here at sunrise, because I love the yellow-orange glow of the prairie grass in the morning light. This location is also good for avoiding overcrowding.
Sunset at Chautauqua Park, Boulder in December.
III. Chautauqua Park
On the western edge of the city, right at the base of the foothills, lies Chautauqua Park. It’s definitely the most crowded of the three—parking may be a challenge on weekends and warmer months, but this spot brings you much closer to the flatirons. Several trails lead you right up into the hills. You can boulder in Boulder, or hike into the foothills for amazing views of the city and plains. Come at sunrise to see the flatirons glow, or come in the evening for some of the most incredible sunsets in the area.
