Royal Arch is a stunning rock formation located 1.2 miles from downtown Boulder. Along the hike, you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful Flatirons and large pine forests. This is an extremely popular hike due to the proximity to both Boulder and Denver, the intermediate ascent, and the gorgeous arch that parallels those in Arches National Park. Here is everything you need to know for a successful hike to the Royal Arch!
Distance –3.2 miles round trip (5.15 km)
Height – 6,915 feet (2,107.69 m)
Elevation gain – 1,417 feet (431.90 m)
Duration – 2 – 3 hours (book time)
Difficulty – Intermediate
Dogs?: Allowed
Seasons – Year-round (caution and experience needed in winter – see below)
Trailhead Location – Chautauqua Park Trailhead – (directions below)
Trail Description
To hike to the Royal Arch, hikers should park at Chautauqua Park, where there are several different trails one can take. We recommend taking the Bluebell Hiking Trail, as it is the most direct to Royal Arch. However, one could start on the Chautauqua Trail, Meadow Trail, or Baseline Trail (shown in trail map #2), which would increase the hike mileage. You also have the option of adding on the 1st and 2nd Flatirons to this hike, creating a loop that would be approximately 5 miles.
Recommended Trail: Bluebell Hiking-Trail (Most Direct): 3.2 Miles Round-Trip | 1,205 ft net elevation gain (1,417 ft total elevation gain)
After arriving to Chautauqua Park, walk to the start of the Bluebell Trail (0.1-0.3 miles) along the gradually inclining Bluebell Trail for 0.6 miles, where you will find the Bluebell shelter. From there, continue on the Royal Arch Trail for 0.7 miles where you will pass Sentinel Pass and continue down the trail.
Trail Maps
Royal Arch, Boulder Colorado Trail Map
Hiking in winter
This hike is commonly listed as a great Boulder winter hike. However, like any winter hikes, hikers have to be precautious and prepared for the different terrain and weather you may find on your trek. In the winter months, conditions to reach the Royal Arch can vary from not snowy whatsoever to icy and slushy, so checking trip reports and the local weather before attempting this hike is crucial. We recommend carrying a pair of microspikes for additional traction, especially if there are reports of snow and ice on the trails.
Current Weather Conditions
Here is a detailed weather forecast for the next 4 days:
Eldorado Springs, CO
Today
A slight chance of snow showers before noon, then snow showers likely and a slight chance of thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy. High near 36, with temperatures falling to around 32 in the afternoon. North wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
Tonight
Snow and a slight chance of thunderstorms. Cloudy, with a low around 27. Northeast wind 3 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches possible.
Saturday
Snow likely before noon, then a chance of snow showers. Cloudy. High near 36, with temperatures falling to around 34 in the afternoon. Northeast wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 28. North northwest wind around 5 mph.
Sunday
Sunny, with a high near 57. West wind 3 to 10 mph.
Sunday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 40.
Monday
A slight chance of rain showers after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 63. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Directions & Parking
Metered parking is required for specific spots at and around Chautauqua Park on certain days (weekends, some holiday weekends). Boulder also offers a free shuttle from May 23rd to September 7th, where hikers can park at satellite parking locations and take the shuttle to Chautauqua Park.
Note: Because of COVID-19, these shuttles will continue to run but will only allow 10 passengers in at a time with face coverings required for all passengers at all times. Hiker’s dogs, strollers, and hiking gear will still be allowed on the shuttle. More information about the safety measures for COVID-19 related to the shuttle can be found here.
Additional Pictures
Royal Arch – Boulder, Colorado
Views From Early On To Royal Arch
Victoria Bandera has a Master’s degree in Health and Exercise Science from Colorado State University and is an ACSM certified Exercise Physiologist. Currently, Vicky is at the University of Utah working on her PhD in Population Health Sciences and working in the Huntsman Cancer Institute. She is passionate about the use of physical activity and nutrition as a source of longevity and overall health. Find her on some adventures with small health-related posts at @viqeeinthewoods on Instagram!