North Broken Boyfriend Loop

The North Broken Boyfriend Loop is a relatively short hike. Most hikers can expect to complete the trail in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views.

For hiking, the North Broken Boyfriend Loop is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty. While it's not a major overall elevation change, there are some 'short and punchy climbs' that can be challenging. It's a great option for those looking for a bit more than a flat stroll but not an extreme workout.

The North Broken Boyfriend Loop is indeed a loop trail. This allows you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps. The specific North section is part of a larger system, but this segment forms a convenient loop.

The trail is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Buena Vista. You'll find ample parking and public toilets available at the trailhead, making it very accessible for visitors.

You'll encounter diverse terrain, including sandy, rocky, and rolling sections, often winding through areas of pinon pines and granite outcroppings. The trail offers fantastic singletrack and provides consistent, amazing panoramic views of Mt. Princeton and the Sawatch Range, as well as glimpses of the Arkansas River Valley.

The trail is home to abundant flora and fauna. Hikers often spot deer and lizards. While less common, there's also a possibility of seeing mountain lions, so always be aware of your surroundings.

As you hike, you can look out for several interesting spots. These include a historic Mine Entrance, the scenic Arkansas River Beach at Midland, and a peaceful Bench Viewpoint offering great vistas.

Yes, the North Broken Boyfriend Loop is dog-friendly! It's a popular spot for hikers with their canine companions. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash and pack out any waste to help keep the trail clean for everyone.

No, you do not need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to hike the North Broken Boyfriend Loop or other trails within the Barbara Whipple Trail System. It's freely accessible to the public.

The North Broken Boyfriend Loop is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer mornings are also great before the heat sets in. While possible in winter, be prepared for potentially snowy or icy conditions, especially on shaded sections.

Yes, the North Broken Boyfriend Loop is part of the larger Midland Trail System. This route specifically covers sections of the Midland Bike Trail and Broken Boyfriend North, and also intersects with paths like the North Trail and South Trail, offering opportunities to extend your hike.