Royal Arch Hike Guide
Royal Arch is one of the best hikes in Boulder for anyone looking to combine a challenging workout with a natural arch that is close to Denver. Although Royal Arch is a relatively short hike, the trail is challenging with over 1,400ft of elevation gain. However, this dog friendly spot is also good for hikers of all levels who aren’t looking to sink an entire day into a hiking objective. What sets Royal Arch apart from other hikes in the area, is the combination of steep climbing, Flatirons scenery and a unique sandstone arch that serves as one of the most recognizable destinations in Boulder Open Space. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Royal Arch hike.
Royal Arch Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Hike Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Area | Boulder, Colorado |
| Trailhead | Chautauqua |
| Distance | 3.5 Miles Total |
| Route Type | Out and Back |
| Elevation Start | 5,699ft |
| Highest Elevation | 6,969ft |
| Total Elevation Gain | 1,400ft |
| Estimated Time to Complete | 2-3 Hours Total |
| Difficulty | Moderate –What does this mean? |
| YDS Class | Class 2 –What does this mean? |
| Exposure | Low |
| Best Season | Year Round |
| Activity Type | Hiking, Trail Running |
| Crowds | Moderate |
| Dogs Allowed | Yes |
| Permit/Fee | No |
| Last Hiked Date | 10.8.26 |
Royal Arch Route Map & GPX
The map below shows the route that I followed for this hike. GPX files are available through a suggested donation of $3-$5. Creating and maintaining hiking guides, videos and GPX files takes a tremendous amount of time. Your support helps keep The Virtual sherpa running, covers website hosting costs and allows me to continue creating free hiking content.
After making a donation, click the button below to send me an email with the hike name in the subject line. I’ll send the GPX file as soon as possible.
Royal Arch Directions & Parking
Protected Area Type: Open Space
Protected Area Name: Boulder Mountain Park
Trailhead: Chautauqua Trailhead
Coordinates: 39.99898136190285, -105.28296265170879
Driving Directions: From Boulder, navigate to the popular Chautauqua Trailhead.
Parking: There are several lots at the Chautauqua Trailhead that can be used for both the Royal Arch trail and others in the area. They will be popular basically every day of the week, especially on weekends. If these lots are full, there is street parking available. Weekdays offer free parking while weekends Memorial Day through Labor Day require a parking fee of $2.50 an hour through a mobile app. Service is great here so you should have no problem paying if you need to.
Permits or Reservation/Fee Description: There is no fee or permit required to hike Royal Arch.
Royal Arch Trail Overview
Starting from Chautauqua Park, there are a few options to get to the main Royal Arch trail. Once on the main trail, it climbs steeply through the forest beneath the Flatirons before reaching a false summit. Here the trail loses elevation before regaining it on some Class 2 scrambling that is the final climb before the arch
The trail ends at the sandstone arch perched high above the city of Boulder. Along the way, hikers are treated to excellent views, varied terrain and a surprisingly rugged experience despite being just minutes from downtown Boulder.
Plan Your Hike
Check Weather: Royal Arch Weather
Camping: Camping is not allowed in Boulder Open Space Park – your best bet is to seek lodging in Boulder.
Bathrooms: The Royal Arch trailhead has several bathrooms along the way including the trailhead and a few throughout the park.
Hazards: Heat, Loose Rock
Dog Description: Royal Arch is a dog friendly for most dogs who can scramble a little bit. If you are unsure if your dog can scramble up rocks, I would leave them at home. Additionally, be sure to check the weather and avoid hot days; this trail can get scorching hot. As always, please keep your dog leashed in Boulder Mountain Parks and pick up after your dog.
Water Sources: There are no running water sources on this trail, be sure to pack in what you need.
Drones: Drones are not allowed in Boulder Mountain Park or at Royal Arch.
Hike Tips: Be sure to bring good footwear on this hike, there are several sections of loose dirt, minor scrambling and well traveled trail. Additionally, if you are looking to avoid crowds heading here during the winter months is a great option.
Best Views: From start to finish the views on the Royal Arch trail are fantastic. At the arch itself, my personal favorites were from the far side of the arch looking towards the flatirons.
Primary Attractions: Summit Views, Arch
Gear Needed
Required Gear
- Hoka Mafate 5 – My go to hiking shoes and trail runners
- La Sportiva Cyklon – Great for scrambling
- Osprey Talon 22 Backpack
- Sunglasses
- Running Hat – Save 15% Using “DMRCMickey15”
- Base Layers
- T Shirt
- Mid Layer / Sun Hoodie
- Rain Jacket / Shell – Black Diamond
- Mountain Hardwear Puffy Jacket
- REI Sahara Pants
- North Face Wander Shorts
- Socks
- Hiking Poles – 120CM
Seasonal Gear
Optional Gear
- Garmin inReach
- Headlamp
- Garmin Fenix Watch
- UD Running Vest
- Osprey Running Vest
- Film Gear: GoPro, Joby Tripod, Selfie Stick, GoPro Max 2 , Drone, Insta360
- *Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you.