Left Hand Creek Trail Trailhead

The Left Hand Greenway is primarily located in Longmont, offering a generally flat, paved path ideal for casual biking, walking, and inline skating, connecting to other regional trails like the St. Vrain Greenway. It features public art and access to parks. The Left Hand Trail, near Boulder and Niwot, is a separate trail accessible from trailheads like Neva Road. It's a 2.8-mile trail with easy to medium difficulty, popular for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use, offering scenic views and wildlife observation opportunities.

For the Left Hand Trail near Boulder, accessible from trailheads like Neva Road or Beech Trailhead, Boulder County Parks and Open Space manages the area. While general parking is available, it's always advisable to check the official Boulder County Parks and Open Space website for any specific permit requirements or fees that may apply, especially for certain activities or during peak seasons. The City of Boulder Mountain Parks and Open Space has one parking facility at Buckingham Park for access to parts of Left Hand Canyon.

The Left Hand Greenway in Longmont is accessible via public transport. You can check the Longmont Public Transportation or RTD (Regional Transportation District) schedules for routes that serve the areas near the greenway. Parking is also available at various points including the Harvest Junction Shopping Center, Longmont Recreation Center, Longmont Museum & Cultural Center, Kanemoto Park, and Left Hand Creek Park, which are often served by local bus routes.

The Left Hand Greenway passes through and near residential and commercial areas of Longmont. You'll find a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a short drive, particularly around the Harvest Junction Shopping Center and downtown Longmont. For accommodation, there are several hotels and motels located throughout Longmont, offering convenient access to the greenway and other local attractions.

The Left Hand Greenway is generally enjoyable year-round. While the paved surfaces are often cleared, conditions can vary after snow. The Left Hand Trail near Boulder can become muddy after rain or snow and may close under such conditions. Always check local trail conditions before heading out in winter. For both trails, dressing in layers and wearing appropriate footwear for potentially icy or wet surfaces is recommended.

Along the Left Hand Trail near Boulder, visitors often spot a variety of wildlife including eagles, northern harriers, red-tailed hawks, deer, coyotes, prairie dogs, and various snakes. The canyon rims also provide habitat for raptors. While the Left Hand Greenway in Longmont is more urban, you may still encounter smaller birds, rabbits, and other common urban wildlife.

The Left Hand Greenway in Longmont features public art installations, including "NATURE'S WAY" by Tim Watkins, and connects to Kanemoto Park with its unique pagoda-like Tower of Compassion. The Left Hand Creek watershed itself has historical significance related to the 1859 Colorado Gold Rush and early water rights. The Left Hand Trail near Boulder offers scenic views of the Lefthand Valley Reservoir and passes through short-grass prairie and cottonwood trees, showcasing the natural landscape.

The Left Hand Greenway in Longmont is approximately 2.9 miles long. It is designed to connect seamlessly with other trails, notably the St. Vrain Greenway and the Longmont-to-Boulder Regional Trail. This connectivity allows cyclists and hikers to create much longer excursions and varied loops, extending their journey significantly beyond the greenway's initial length.

The Left Hand Greenway in Longmont is generally flat with some moderate grades and features concrete surfaces, making it ideal for beginners, families, and those with limited mobility, including wheelchair users. The Left Hand Trail near Boulder is considered easy to medium difficulty with a moderate elevation gain, making it suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners in hiking or mountain biking.

Both the Left Hand Greenway and the Left Hand Trail can be popular, especially on weekends. If you're looking for less crowded options, consider exploring other segments of the extensive St. Vrain Greenway system in Longmont, or other trails within the Boulder Valley Ranch trails network near Boulder. Checking local park and open space websites for less-trafficked trails during peak times can also be helpful.

Given the open nature of both the Left Hand Greenway and the Left Hand Trail, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) is highly advisable. Comfortable footwear is recommended for walkers and runners. For cyclists, appropriate cycling gear is best. In cooler months or during winter, dressing in layers is essential, and waterproof outer layers may be beneficial, especially if trails are muddy or wet.