Just above Boulder, Colorado are the Flatirons and trails that intertwine amongst them. They have been dated back as far as 290 plus million years ago. The protruding sandstone’s orientation dates from 35 to 80 million years ago. There are 5 respectively formed Flatirons along Green Mountain’s eastern slope.
Chautaugua Trailhead begins very close to Baseline Road and Grant Place in south Boulder. The Chautauqua Park continues along Baseline Road. At Kinnikinic Road, take Bluebell Road to Chautaugua Trail.
From there you follow the Chautaugua Trail to a T-intersection. At this point you need to decide which way to go. On this particular expedition, the photographer – Brian Hockley decided to continue left to Baird Trail.
Along the scenic route there is plenty of wilderness. On this particular day the skies were a beautiful blue.
The Baird trail weaves and winds itself through the forested terrain. Nature will surround you as you keep head strong down the dirt path.
If you are lucky, you can spy some wildlife lingering near the trail.
In this picture, Brian captured a Buck and Doe deer resting at the trails edge.
The Doe’s sudden expression is seemingly curious and cautious.
The trail starts to become more of an incline as the Flatirons backside starts to come into view.
This trail follows a lower ridge that will allow its hikers to see out over Colorado’s eastern plains.
On the way up towards the ridge, Brian stops and takes a photo of Colorado University’s main campus. Can you think of a better backdrop for a school photo.
Notice the stadium in the upper right hand corner. Folsom Field is home to the CU Buffalo’s football team. The views of the Flatirons for the home team crowd is invigorating.
Brian and his partner are getting closer to the top. The shear cliffs can be seen slightly through portals created between the massive slabs of rock.
Consistent footing and steadiness must be cautiously practiced while hiking this part of the trail.
The Flatirons reach over 8,000 feet above sea level. At a certain point the trail ends and the only way to keep going is with climbing gear.
Brian and his partner took the trail to its furthest point. The views were breathtaking. The Mile High city’s faded shadow is almost lost to the eastern plains endless horizon.
Added Dialog & Format: Anthony Scopel
Field work: Brian Hockley
Photography: Brian Hockley
Associate Editor: Maureen Scopel
Technical Mastering & Support: Matt Kemper
Publisher: YMATD
