Winter in Boulder brings some of the most beautiful sunrises of the entire year. With crisp air, clear horizons, and colorful gradients stretching across the plains, December mornings offer the perfect conditions for early-morning hikes. If you’re looking to start your day with peace, beauty, and a burst of color, these are the sunrise trails delivering the magic right now.
Why Winter Sunrises Hit Different
Cold air holds less moisture, creating sharper visibility and deeper color. As the sun rises behind the city and spills over the foothills, the Flatirons and sandstone formations ignite with warm orange and red tones. December’s sunrise time—just after 7 a.m.—makes it easy to catch the show without waking up in the middle of the night.
Mount Sanitas — The All-Around Champion
Mount Sanitas offers one of the best sunrise vantage points in town. From the summit, the entire city stretches out beneath you while the first light builds across the eastern sky.
Why it’s perfect right now:
- Quick but rewarding climb
- Clear lookouts straight to the horizon
- Beautiful frost and ice along the ridgeline on cold mornings
Traction helps here—Sanitas can get slick before the sun warms the trail.
Chautauqua to Bluebell Road Overlook — Iconic Boulder View
If you want that classic Boulder moment where the Flatirons glow bright orange, this is the spot. The walk from Chautauqua up toward the Bluebell area offers gentle elevation and multiple overlooks.
Why it works in winter:
- Accessible for all fitness levels
- Easy to squeeze into a busy morning
This is one of the best sunrise photography routes in the city.
The Peoples’ Crossing — Boulder’s Renamed Sunrise Favorite
Formerly known as Settler’s Park, The Peoples’ Crossing offers a mellow, scenic sunrise experience. The red-sandstone formations light up dramatically when the sun hits, creating deep orange and red tones unique to this area…