Drives Colorado Denver, Boulder and the Front Range
Lefthand Canyon Drive
Boulder County, Colorado · Boulder → Ward
The drive
Lefthand Canyon Drive climbs from US 36 north of Boulder up Left Hand Creek to Ward, a mountain town on the Peak to Peak Highway. The road follows the creek through a narrow canyon, steadily uphill, with the twistiest curves in the first miles after the canyon mouth. In 15.7 miles it gains about 3,500 feet, ending near 9,100 feet.
Floods in September 2013 badly damaged the canyon; a county update that fall said 40 to 50 percent of the road had washed out in the worst section.
At Ward, the drive meets CO 72, part of the Peak to Peak Highway, which continues north and south.
Along the way
- Boulder (US-36)
- Ward
Good to know
- This is a favorite climb for cyclists, so expect many of them, especially on weekends.
- The canyon is narrow with few places to pass; take the curves slowly.
- It's a Boulder County road, so check the county's closures page for work.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Boulder County Closures and Construction.
Questions about this drive
How long does Lefthand Canyon Drive take?
Boulder to Ward on Lefthand Canyon Drive is 16 miles and takes about 30 min.
Where does Lefthand Canyon Drive end?
Lefthand Canyon Drive ends at Ward, where it meets CO 72, the Peak to Peak Highway.
Are there a lot of cyclists on Lefthand Canyon Drive?
Yes. Lefthand Canyon Drive is a well-known climb for cyclists, so expect to share the road.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.