Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive
A scenic mountain drive near Boulder, Colorado, offering stunning vistas and a popular route for cyclists and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic mountain drive near Boulder, Colorado, offering stunning vistas and a popular route for cyclists and nature lovers.
"Gorgeous ride, watch out for cars! Nature is wonderful and we can all share."
🚗 Drive with Caution
Watch out for cyclists and be mindful of the narrow road. Share the space and enjoy the ride!
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable in the canyon. Plan your route ahead of time.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 15 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Various pull-offs along the drive
Breathtaking views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, offering a sense of peace and awe.
Lefthand Canyon's Natural Beauty
Throughout the canyon
Immerse yourself in the lush forests and rugged terrain that make this canyon a true gem.
Shared Roadway Harmony
The entire scenic drive
Experience the unique coexistence of cars and cyclists, a testament to shared enjoyment of the outdoors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Canyon
Visitor Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
EASY hikes in Lefthand or James Canyon?
I know there are miles and miles of trails on flat land that I could start with, but have a couple of reasons I'd rather not doing that. I'm mostly looking to get out into the forest. Basically I've got a beer belly and had a hip replacement, so am looking for a trail that I…
🚗 Drive with Caution
Watch out for cyclists and be mindful of the narrow road. Share the space and enjoy the ride!
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable in the canyon. Plan your route ahead of time.
To the cyclists who ride Left Hand Canyon
It boggles my mind how a group of people who supposedly care so much about biker safety and ‘the rules of the road’ can flagrantly break laws and etiquette at every turn. I grew up in Boulder and live up Left Hand, so I’m used to driving around cyclists and have no problem…
Left hand Canyon No Shooting Sign
I grew up in Boulder in the 80s. Left hand was where we went to shoot and 4 wheel. It was awesome! We used to ride dirtbikes out of our door in Gunbarrrel, empty fields. My brother and I would spend days outside with our off leash dogs, and see nobody. There were legit Hippies,…
🌲 Embrace the Forest
Perfect for those seeking a forest escape with gentle inclines.
📸 Capture the Views
Numerous pull-offs offer incredible photo opportunities of the mountain scenery.
Colorado flat/rolling gravel spots in the range?
I know I'm going to get ripped on and/or cross posted to BCJ for this one but, I'm a low altitude Tennessee boy and will be in Colorado later in the month. Acclimation will be an issue for sure. I'm hoping to find some good gravel areas that have fairly flat (ish) routes like in…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Watch out for cyclists and be mindful of the narrow road. Share the space and enjoy the ride!
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable in the canyon. Plan your route ahead of time.
🌲 Embrace the Forest
Perfect for those seeking a forest escape with gentle inclines.
📸 Capture the Views
Numerous pull-offs offer incredible photo opportunities of the mountain scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking mountain views and the immersive natural beauty of Left Hand Canyon. The drive is particularly popular with cyclists, who enjoy the scenic route. However, some guests have reported negative experiences with park staff, citing rudeness and unhelpfulness.
"I give a4 for the views. We have been to over 50 national parks now with our pass. All have amazing staff but this one. Rude and unhelpful. The camp ground ranger was very unfriendly. At the Visitors center one ranger at the desk is the most unhappy man alive. A group of 3 came up and asked for a map. His response was "they give these out at the gate". While he's sitting by a stack of 300 of them!! I'll come back again but will not be staying in the park or spending any money there"
Karen Lippoldt
"I don't know what the others are talking about. Left hand canyon is one of the highlights of boulder canyon. There is plenty of room for everyone even if some folks insist on bringing big noisy cars. The area is far better explored by bikes which is why there are often more bikes than cars.
Bottom line is nature is wonderful and we can all share. Please tell your neighbors to come up here and enjoy the rocky mtn high in Colorado."
Sandor Dornbush
"Outstanding... everywhere you look there is something in life that makes one feel blessed."
Mary Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive is located near Boulder, Colorado. Access is typically from Canyon Boulevard in Boulder, heading west. It's a popular route for both drivers and cyclists.
Yes, the Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive is accessible by car. However, it's a shared road with cyclists, so drivers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Absolutely! Many cyclists frequent the Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive, enjoying the scenic route and the mountain air. It's a popular spot for road biking.
The main access point is from Boulder, Colorado, where Canyon Boulevard transitions into the scenic drive. There aren't typically formal 'entry points' with gates, but rather a continuous road.
The best way to navigate is by driving cautiously and being aware of cyclists. If you're a cyclist, be prepared for shared road conditions. Downloading offline maps is also recommended due to spotty cell service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or fees required to drive the Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive. It's a public road.
There are no entrance fees for the Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive itself. However, if you plan to visit nearby areas that are part of a national park or forest, separate fees might apply.
As a public road, Left Hand Canyon Scenic Drive is generally open 24/7. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the scenery.
While there isn't a dedicated visitor center directly on the scenic drive, you can find information and maps at visitor centers in nearby Boulder, Colorado.
Camping is available in the Left Hand Canyon area, but specific regulations and availability can vary. It's advisable to check with the Forest Service or local authorities for current camping information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can expect gorgeous mountain views, lush forests, and rugged terrain. It's a beautiful drive that offers a sense of being immersed in nature.
Yes, there are hiking trails in the Lefthand Canyon area, offering opportunities to explore the forest and mountains. Some are easier hikes suitable for those with physical considerations.
The scenic drive itself is enjoyable for families, offering beautiful views. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, so choose one appropriate for your family's abilities.
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to do any hiking. Layers are a good idea as mountain weather can change quickly.
Restroom facilities may be limited along the scenic drive itself. It's advisable to use facilities before you begin your drive or at designated picnic areas if available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are scarce directly within Left Hand Canyon. It's best to pack a picnic or eat in Boulder before or after your drive.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea! There may be designated picnic areas, or you can find scenic spots to stop and enjoy your meal.
The closest town with a variety of dining options is Boulder, Colorado, which is just a short drive away from the entrance of the canyon.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for pull-offs with unobstructed views of the mountains and the canyon landscape. The changing light throughout the day can create stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Yes, many visitors enjoy photographing the cyclists who frequent the drive. Be sure to maintain a safe distance and be respectful of their activity.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or photographing wildlife.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of private property and respect any posted signage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit