Eldorado Canyon is a hidden treasure right in Boulder’s backyard! Whether it’s hiking amidst the towering sandstone cliffs, picnicking along scenic South Boulder Creek or climbing Eldo's sheer golden walls, Eldorado Canyon State Park truly has something for everyone! Discover this hidden jewel and take home memories that will last a lifetime.
Biking
The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail offers the experienced mountain biker an enjoyable three-mile ride, this is not a sit-down ride. It is a steady uphill climb for 1.4 miles, gaining 800 feet in elevation. There are several tight switchbacks, as well as areas with loose rock.
Boating
Tubing, rafting, etc. are not permitted on South Boulder Creek for safety reasons. Kayaking is permitted when water flow is sufficient.
Cross-country Skiing
In the winter skiers and snowshoers are often on the road and Fowler Trail after a good snowfall. Please call the park at 303-543-8882 for conditions.
Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome everywhere in the park as long as:
they are on a six foot or shorter leash at all times
under control
their waste is properly disposed of
Fishing
Eldorado Canyon is normally an excellent fly-fishing area for brown and rainbow trout. With very little pressure the fish are hungry, healthy and at certain times of the year are very abundant. Check the conditions section of this website to see how they're biting. Colorado Fishing Licenses are required and are available for purchase at the park Visitors Center.
Hiking
Eldorado Canyon has three trails of note. The Fowler Trail is easy, the Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is moderate, and the Eldorado Canyon Trail is more difficult.
Fowler Trail features amazing views of the canyon walls, a self-guided nature walk, benches and spotting scopes.
Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is a moderate climb on switchbacks to the site of the former Crags Hotel with exceptional views through the Canyon. At the top is an additional loop which leads to a beautiful overlook of the continental divide and into a quiet forest.
The Eldorado Canyon Trail also has excellent views of the canyon. It continues up through forested land and connects to the Walker Ranch loop for an extended hike. Take plenty of water and be prepared for changeable weather. Check the conditions section of the website for current status of trails.
Horseback Riding
Equestrians are welcomed in the Park. The main park road, Eldorado Canyon Trail, and Walker Ranch Loop connect the front range to the mountains. It may be necessary to dismount from time to time due to the steepness of the trail. Horse trailers are not feasible in the Park on weekends or holidays year-round.
Hunting
Hunting is allowed the Tuesday after Labor Day through March 31st in the Crescent Meadows portion of the park only (archery and black-powder weapons only). The appropriate license is necessary (unit 29) and all Colorado Parks and Wildlife hunting and possession limits apply. Colorado Hunting Licenses are available at the park Visitors Center.
Picnicking
Our beautiful picnic area features 10 picnic areas along South Boulder Creek makes it a wonderful spot for a picnic. It is especially peaceful on weekdays and summer evenings. On summer weekends and holidays the picnic area fills up quickly so come early if you want to get a table.
Picnicking and the use of portable grills and stoves is permissible only in designated sites.
Rock Climbing
Eldorado Canyon is one of the top climbing destinations in the United States.
We have more than 500 technical climbing routes that attract climbers (and onlookers) from around the world. To protect the rock, NO drilling or chipping is allowed, please use minimal chalk. Please remember that the park closes at sunset, it is not permitted to climb here at night. The climbing here is mostly traditional - there are very few sport routes or those that you can top rope. Be aware of possible rapid weather changes including high winds, spring snow storms and summer thunderstorms.
Eldorado Canyon approves up to 18 rock climbing guiding permits each year to professional companies and orgnaizations across the county. If you are interested in a permit, please contact 303.494.3943 for more information.
Snowshoeing
Eldorado Canyon's dramatic beauty is highlighted by a fresh dusting of snow on the cliffs and trees. Snowshoeing is best experienced on the Fowler Trail and Rattlesnake Gulch Trail. Call the Park for the most updated trail conditions at 303-494-3943.