I like to wake up before the sunrise, when the day is fresh, and life is just beginning, and enjoy my coffee on the trail.
Living within proximity to Mount Sanitas, my dog Monkey Boy and I “load up” with an insulated cup in hand and head for the trailhead. The rocky neighborhood path leading to the Valley Trail has caused a few missteps in my yet-caffeinated body, though the lack of coordination is made up for with the warm aroma coming from my cup and the sun rising over the horizon giving everything an orange glow.
Monkey is tiny yet mighty. He often is distracted and is easily hidden in the grasses, and I’m cautious that he isn’t too far away in case we encounter wildlife. While the animals aren’t interested in humans, coming upon a bear at 6:30 am on a narrow trail isn’t part of my morning plan. During the last bear encounter, I was glad to join up with another hiker and walk back (with my tail between my legs.)
The solitude of nature is spectacular, particularly as the area gets busy after 7 am. Mount Sanitas offers views over the city and plains, and the sunrise emerges from the horizon to light up Boulder and the rocky outcroppings on the hillside. Walking down the wide Valley Trail the Flatirons and Red Rocks are in the distance, though they feel close enough to touch. Dogs (with city tags) roam freely and Monkey’s morning is a solid 100% saying hello to furry friends.
For a moment this bit of magic is all mine.
The Valley Trail and Dakota Ridge Trail together are about a 2.5 mile loop. It’s the perfect morning wake-up hike, and if the views and coffee don’t do the trick, the steep stone steps surely will. For an extra workout, head up the Goat Trail before jumping on the loop.
