Rediscovering Hogback Ridge Trail Loop: Off The Beaten Path
A few weeks ago, I was thinking about the route I should take on my next run. I was looking for something easier, but still with some elevation gain. Definitely wanted it to be a trail covered with rocks and dirt instead of pavement. So I figured I will cover Hogbackloop Trail that I haven’t visited in a while. As it turned out, I returned to this North Boulder trail almost on the anniversary of my last visit here. Time flies…
In case you are looking for a trail that offers the followings, Hogbackloop Trail is for you:
- short, but steep uphill
- great view of a typical Colorado Front Range scenery
- not crowded trails
- views of North Boulder
- plenty of opprtunities to break your ankle
Being a loop, divided by a summit where you can find plenty of spot to sit down and enjoy the views of North Boulder, the two “halves” of the loop are very different.
The South side of the loop is steeper, makes you work through steeper terrain and cover a series of typical trail steps to gain most of the elevation as quickly as possible.
The North side of the loop is a longer, less steep section, covered by rocks in various sizes, making it a good training ground to strenghten your ankle. The faster you run, the harder your ankles will work and the more you will have to focus to avoid an injury. Without the crowds, I would consider it a great training ground for anyone trying to ease into trail running.
The South side of the loop Don’t get distracted by the fact that this is not one of the well-known, popular Boulder trails and destinations. It can be also a perfect trail to cover with visitors from lower elevations, who would still like to get an idea of what the local trails have to offer.
If you end up visiting it, let me know how you liked it. Have fun out there!