Are dogs allowed on Mallory Cave?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Mallory Cave but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Mallory Cave?

No, Mallory Cave does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Mallory Cave?

Mallory Cave is rated moderate. It is 2.4 miles long with 1,024 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Colorado trail conditions

ModerateOut and Back

Colorado

Mallory Cave

Boulder, Colorado

2.4 mi

Distance

1,024 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 12m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

There are buffer zone closings during the season for roosting bats. The cave is permanently closed to reduce human contamination that can cause white-nose syndrome in bats. The hike begins at the NCAR parking lot. Go west to the Mesa trail and cross it by the information sign. The signs to the final 100 ft rock climb are located on the other side of the road. If there is no ice or snow, go up the cave.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,866 ft

Max:2,079 ft

312 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context