Skip the National Parks and Visit Eldorado Canyon Instead
Eldorado Canyon State Park is located just 9 miles south of Boulder, Colorado making it a prime destination for an easy getaway or day trip among locals and tourists. This park is a popular spot for hikers, rock climbers, and families. Here, you’ll find some of the most incredible views of the Rockies outside of Rocky National Park with 17.1 miles of trails to explore. Eldorado Canyon is a fantastic spot to spend the day soaking up some of Colorado’s beauty while avoiding the crowds at the nearby national parks.
Why Eldorado Canyon State Park is Worth Visiting
There’s a number of reasons why Eldorado Canyon is worth visiting. First, it’s super close to Boulder and Denver, providing easy mountain access for city dwellers who want to escape to the mountains without driving too far. Second, it’s more affordable than the national parks, especially if you have the Keep Colorado Wild state park pass, which provides free entry. Without the pass, it costs $10-$12 per vehicle. Third, there are a range of hikes suitable for people with varying degrees of fitness levels with trails ranked as easy, moderate, and difficult for those looking for a challenge. There are also multiple picnic tables scattered throughout the park for those just wanting to sit and soak up the parks natural beauty. Finally, the views are absolutely jaw-dropping - towering canyon walls, a raging creek, radiant pines - this park truly has it all.
How to Get a Permit
Although the park is open all year round, timed entries are required from May 1 - October 1. During this time period, you must make a reservation in advance to enter the park through CPWShop.com or by calling the Reservation Line: 1-800-244-5613. Since cell phone reception in the region is poor, you must print, download, or screenshot the reservation confirmation and present it at their time of arrival at the park. There must also be a printed copy of your reservation displayed on your dashboard.
If you want to avoid obtaining a timed entry permit, park visitors can hop on the Eldo Shuttle - a free weekend shuttle service that can take you to and from Eldorado Canyon State Park. It picks up passengers from the US 36 & McCaslin Park-n-Ride in Superior and also from Boulder. The shuttle runs approximately every 20 minutes and takes about 25 minutes to reach the park. This is a great alternative if you don’t want to make a reservation in advance.
Eldorado Canyon Trail Hike Review and Highlights
When I visited the park, I hiked the Eldorado Canyon Trail - a 6.6 mile out-and-back trail which took about 4 hours to complete. This trail takes you up along the canyon wall and then down into the canyon to Boulder Creek where you can dip your tired feet in at the end to cool off. This route was definitely on the more challenging end of the spectrum with some steep inclines (1,978 ft. of elevation gain) and rough terrain. There are long stretches without tree coverage so wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun.
This trail was a workout for sure, but totally worth it at the end. Hiking down to Boulder Creek was such a refreshing, satisfying destination, especially on a hot summers day (and a great spot to refill your water if you have a water filter). I particularly like the color contrast between the canyon, the creek, and the vibrant green trees.
Just so you know, my partner and I did see a bear, so take the appropriate precautions while hiking in this area. Common practices are to bring bear spray, wear a bear bell if hiking alone, or hike with other people.
Thanks for reading! I hope you get the opportunity to check out this spectacular state park in Colorado this year. Stay safe, respect nature, and have fun!
