Switzerland Trail
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Description
The Switzerland Trail, located a few miles west of Boulder, Colorado, is a scenic off-road route of approximately 21 miles, primarily following the historic grade of the Colorado & Northwestern narrow-gauge railroad, later known as the Denver, Boulder & Western Railway. This makes for a relatively easy drive with gentle grades, offering spectacular views of the foothills and snow-capped peaks to the west. Much of the trail is a shelf road. It's a popular choice for an afternoon getaway and is known for being open year-round, making it a favorite for snow wheeling adventures in the winter. The trail connects areas from near Sugarloaf Mountain towards Gold Hill and Ward. You'll pass through varied terrain, including forested sections and more open areas with expansive views. Expect a natural surface road that can include rocks, potholes, and some sandy sections. While generally wide enough for two vehicles, some parts narrow with tighter turns.
Directions
The Switzerland Trail has multiple access points:
Middle Access (near Sugarloaf Mountain):
- From Boulder, CO, head west on Colorado-119 (Boulder Canyon Drive) for approximately 5.1 miles.
- Turn right onto County Road 122 (Sugarloaf Road) and continue for about 4.7 miles.
- Turn right onto Sugarloaf Mountain Road and drive for 0.8 miles to an open area above private homes. This is a common access point.
Western End Access (near Hwy 72, north of Nederland):
- From Nederland, CO, head west on West 2nd Street toward North Jefferson Street (0.3 miles).
- Continue onto Colorado-72 West (Caribou Street) and follow Colorado-72 West for about 5.5 miles.
- Turn right onto County Road 120J to access the western parts of the trail system.
Northern End Access (near Sawmill Road/Lefthand Canyon):
- From Boulder, CO, head north on Colorado-119/US-36 West for about 3.5 miles.
- Turn left onto Lee Hill Drive and go 1.6 miles.
- Turn left to stay on Lee Hill Drive and go 3.7 miles.
- Turn left to stay on Lee Hill Drive and go 0.7 miles.
- Turn left onto Lefthand Canyon Drive and drive for 8.9 miles.
- Turn left onto Sawmill Road (County Road 95) and go 0.8 miles.
- Turn left onto a dirt road (part of the Switzerland Trail system, often FR93) just before a private drive.
Parking is available at various points, including near Sugarloaf Mountain Road, along Gold Hill Road, and near the Sawmill Road access.
Difficulty
The Switzerland Trail is generally considered an easy drive, suitable for most stock 4x4 vehicles with decent ground clearance. The path mainly follows a historic railroad grade, resulting in relatively gentle slopes for much of its length. You'll encounter a natural surface road that can have some rocks and potholes, requiring attentive driving. Some sections might become a bit narrower with tighter curves, and parts of the trail are shelf roads, so caution is advised, especially if passing oncoming traffic. While the main trail is straightforward and not technically demanding, be aware that some intersecting spur roads or unofficial offshoots can be significantly more challenging and may require modified vehicles. Overall, it's a great trail for beginners to off-roading or those looking for a scenic, less demanding drive.
Trail Uses
- Off-Road Vehicles
- 4x4 Vehicle
- All-Terrain Vehicle
- Snowmobile
- Mountain Biking
- Hiking
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