Zig Zag

Managing agency

Arapaho-Roosevelt NF — Boulder RD

Zig Zag is a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail located near Colorado in the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest, Boulder Ranger District. The route features 718 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderate day hike suitable for a range of fitness levels. The trail is managed by the U.S. Forest Service through the Boulder Ranger District, ensuring regular maintenance and adherence to public land standards. As an out-and-back route, hikers will retrace their path on the return journey, allowing for flexible turnaround points if desired. This trail offers access to the natural landscape of the northern Colorado Front Range, where hikers can experience forest terrain typical of the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest. The moderate elevation gain is distributed across the 1.9-mile approach to the turnaround point, providing steady climbing without extreme steepness. Zig Zag is best suited for hikers seeking a half-day outing with manageable distance and elevation. The trail's location within a national forest provides a backcountry experience while remaining relatively accessible from nearby communities.