Run Niwot Ridge

This Saturday we will be heading to Niwot Ridge in Brainard Lake Recreation Area for a brand new variation on a BTRBC classic. From the winter lot (no parking fee or reservation required), we'll head out on a loop with an out-and-back section on the ridge for a total of 15-16 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain; plan to be out for 5+ hours. If you're looking for something shorter, you can skip the out-and-back for 11-12 miles and 2000 feet of elevation gain and still plenty of good views. Make sure you bring a map and/or know your way back to the trailhead from Long Lake. Either route will enjoy substantial time above tree line, so bring your sun shirts, sun hats, and sunscreen!

Important: because we will be atop the ridge for much of the run, water may not be available until 3.5 miles from the end of the run. Bring enough to get to that point, and a filter if you plan to refill.

Carpool options:

• North Foothills Trailhead (map) at 6:30am – At the intersection of Broadway and Hwy 36, head north on 36 a few hundred feet. Turn right onto the dirt road. Trailhead is a little ways down on your left.
• Lefthand Canyon Drive at US 36 - (map) at 6:40am - From US 36, turn west on Lefthand Canyon Drive then park immediately on the right (north) side of the road, across the street from the Greenbriar Inn.

If you prefer to meet at the Brainard winter lot (map), note that cell service may be limited. Plan to arrive around 7:20 - we will start running around 7:25.

After the run we will have trailhead breakfast. Please fill out this form with your meeting location and what you plan to contribute for breakfast.