The Bear Creek Path begins just south of the University of Colorado Research Park and winds its way southwest to the Martin Acres community. The trail is paved and generally flat, although there is a steady incline up to S. Broadway Street at the south end of the trail.
You'll travel through some shaded and some open areas on a route that connects southeast Boulder neighborhoods, parks and Creekside Elementary School. Park East, at the north end of the trail, and Martin Park, on the south side, offer playgrounds, picnic tables and recreation areas.
Parking is available in Martin Park (S. 36th Street and Eastman Avenue) at the south end of the trail, or the University of Colorado Research Park at the north end of the trail.
This is a great little section of trail and is quite pretty as it follows along Bear Creek. The path is usually always in great shape and there are no street crossings (all are underpasses). Going west to east (down creek) can be a fun, quick ride! There are some sharp and blind corners that warrant some caution/awareness. Like other Boulder paths, the only downside is occasional encounters with other "traffic"... bikers, hikers, moms pushing baby carriages, roller bladers, dogs off leash, etc. Best to be on the alert and courteous.
Starting at Carpenter Park, head east on Boulder Creek trail to the end at Arapahoe, then out and back on Wonderland and Cottonwood trails, then out and back on Goose Creek trail, then out and back on Skunk Creek and Bear Creek trails, then back to Carpenter park, you can make a 22-mile East Boulder Loop.
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