Tungsten and Kinnickinnick Loop Trail

The full Tungsten and Kinnickinnick Loop Trail is approximately 6.5 kilometers (about 4 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. The Kinnickinnick Loop itself is about 1.1 miles, and the Tungsten Loop is around 0.8 miles, offering shorter options if desired.

Yes, this trail is generally considered easy and suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. While the Kinnickinnick Loop has slightly more loose rocks and roots, the overall terrain is accessible, making it a great option for a leisurely outdoor experience.

The trailhead for the Tungsten and Kinnickinnick Loop Trail is located within the Mud Lake Open Space near Nederland, Boulder County, Colorado. There is ample parking available at the Mud Lake Open Space parking lot, which provides convenient access to the start of the loops.

You can expect a varied but generally easy terrain. The path is often soft underfoot, winding through a peaceful forest. Be prepared for changing conditions, which might include mud, dry ground, or even snow depending on recent weather. The Kinnickinnick Loop has a few more loose rocks and roots, requiring a bit more sure-footedness.

The trail offers beauty year-round, but summer and fall are particularly popular. In summer, you'll find beautiful wildflowers blooming around Mud Lake. Fall brings vibrant aspen colors. While accessible in winter, be prepared for snow and potentially icy conditions.

The trail winds through a beautiful montane forest with thick evergreen trees, aspens, and Ponderosa pines. Mud Lake is a prominent feature, often visible through the trees. Keep an eye out for wildlife; moose are frequently sighted near the trail, and other mammals and birds call this area home.

Yes, the trail names themselves are significant. The Tungsten Loop commemorates Nederland's history as a tungsten boomtown. The Kinnickinnick Loop is named after a resilient shrub, also known as bearberry, that grows abundantly here. You can also download a smartphone app for an audio-guided experience that provides information about the environment at designated stopping points.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll hike along parts of the Kinnickinnick Loop and the Tungsten Loop, as well as smaller segments of CoRd126J, Caribou Ranch Link, and Sherwood.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Tungsten and Kinnickinnick Loop Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

As of current information, there are no specific permits required for hiking the Tungsten and Kinnickinnick Loop Trail, nor is there an entrance fee for the Mud Lake Open Space. However, it's always a good idea to check the Boulder County Parks & Open Space website (bouldercounty.gov) for the most up-to-date regulations before your visit.

Near the trailhead and Mud Lake, you'll find restrooms and covered picnic tables, making it a convenient spot for a break or a meal before or after your hike.