Nov 6, 2025 - News

Boulder County eyes key land deal to connect major trail networks

Mitchell Byars

Woman in a white helmet and purple cycling gear rides a mountain bike on a dirt path through a dry grassy area with pine trees and hills in the background under a clear sky. — The Canyon Loop Trail at Betasso Preserve in 2009. Photo: Marty Caivano/Digital First Media/Boulder Daily Camera via Getty Images

Boulder County is weighing a $1.5 million land purchase that could finally link two of its most popular trail systems — the Betasso Preserve and the Boulder Canyon Trail.

Why it matters: The 6-acre property in Boulder Canyon could unlock a long-sought route for cyclists to reach Betasso without braving Colorado 119, one of the area's busiest and narrowest canyon roads.

Driving the news: The Boulder County Parks and Open Space Advisory Committee voted Oct. 23 to recommend buying 38899 Boulder Canyon Drive.

What's included, according to county documents:

6.6 acres at the northwest corner of Boulder Canyon Drive and Fourmile Canyon Drive
Four structures from a former private residence
A piece of the historic Orodell townsite, once part of the area's mining heyday

Between the lines: The county has sought for years ways to connect Betasso's trails with Boulder Canyon's network, but terrain and access challenges have stalled progress — until now.

What they're saying: This is "huge for the cycling community that likes to ride to Betasso and would like to do that without getting on a road open to cars," the Boulder Mountain Bike Alliance wrote in a post about the plan.

What's next: The purchase still needs final approval from the Boulder County Commissioners.

A public hearing regarding the possible purchase will take place Nov. 13.

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Boulder County eyes key land deal to connect major trail networks

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