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Cool stone chairs and an awesome view reward those who climb this short, steep Mesa Trail detour.


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Map Key

0.4

Miles

0.6

KM

Point to Point

6,359' 1,938 m

High

6,190' 1,887 m

Low

105' 32 m

Up

169' 52 m

Down

13%

Avg Grade (7°)

35%

Max Grade (19°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

When hiking the upper reaches of the Mesa Trail, consider this whimsical detour to visit sandstone recliners and take in great views. From the little stone house (Roosa Cabin) at the junction of the Mesa Trail and Woods Quarry Trail, head steeply uphill, using steps to ascend. Take the next left for a short out-and-back to reach the site of the former quarry. Here you'll find several fun seating options. Pretend you're Goldilocks and find the one that's juuust right!

After enjoying the views, retrace your steps north and continue the Woods Quarry Trail by going uphill briefly and then contouring the hillside. After some gentle downhill, arrive at an optional 3rd Flatiron viewpoint, about 50 yards off the trail where the Woods Quarry Trail turns east to join the Mesa Trail.

Historical notes: The quarry provided sandstone for Boulder's buildings and sidewalks in the 1890's before more conveniently located quarries forced it to close in 1920. The Roosa Cabin was once a homesteader's residence and was occupied as late as 1970.

Flora & Fauna

Ponderosa pines, wildflowers, deer.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 14 votes

#1201

Overall
  4.4 from 14 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
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3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Trail Rankings

#188

in Colorado

#1,201

Overall
25 Views Last Month
7,450 Since Jun 29, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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90%
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Photos

A well deserved rest!
Jun 30, 2015 near Boulder, CO
Braided trail at the start of the Woods Quarry Trail
Jun 29, 2015 near Boulder, CO
Descending the Woods Quarry Trail
Jun 29, 2015 near Boulder, CO
Lookout
Nov 8, 2019 near Boulder, CO

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Minor Issues 90 days ago
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