Eldorado Canyon State Park Tours and Activities

Eldorado Canyon State Park showing rapids
Eldorado Canyon State Park featuring signage
Eldorado Canyon State Park featuring a gorge or canyon
Eldorado Canyon State Park which includes tranquil scenes
Eldorado Canyon State Park featuring flowers


One of the most popular rock climbing destinations in the United States is also known for its hiking, fishing and cross-country skiing opportunities.

Thrill to a day full of adventure at Eldorado Canyon State Park and explore nearly 1,500 acres (600 hectares) of forests, plains, cliffs and a creek. The most popular activity here is rock climbing, and there are more than 500 climbing routes.

Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned climber, you will find a route tailored to your ability. Challenge your skills on cliffs that reach heights of 700 feet (215 metres) or just enjoy the sight of experienced climbers in action.

Travel through the wilderness on foot or by bicycle along its numerous trails. Follow the old wagon road up the south wall of the canyon on the Rattlesnake Gulch Trail. Go to the west end of the valley for the Eldorado Canyon Trail that winds its way up nearly 1,000 feet (305 metres) to a high ridge. The views from here are well worth the strenuous hike. For a gentle walk with great vistas, take the Fowler Trail. The first section is wheelchair accessible, and along the route you’ll see a number of wildlife interpretive signs. Most of the trails are open to mountain bikes and several routes connect to Boulder’s trail system.

Eldorado Canyon State Park is known for its excellent fly fishing conditions. Pick up your rod and see what you can catch in the creek. You can also go rafting or kayaking along many sections of the waterway.

When the snow falls, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing along some of the trails. The park is not at a high enough elevation to receive sustained periods of heavy snowfall, so the Eldorado Canyon Trail can be hiked all year round.

You can visit Eldorado Canyon State Park during daylight hours only. There is no camping within the grounds and you are expected to leave before dusk. Expect to pay a small entry fee. On-site metered parking spaces are available, but they fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning.

The park is located just 10 miles (16 kilometres) outside of Boulder. In half an hour you can go from abseiling a cliff face to drinking coffee in a downtown cafe.

Popular places to visit


Top Eldorado Canyon State Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

See video: BEAUTIFUL private getaway b/w Boulder &Golden @8100'; garage parking
See video: BEAUTIFUL private getaway b/w Boulder &Golden @8100'; garage parking
Golden
See video: BEAUTIFUL private getaway b/w Boulder &Golden @8100'; garage parking
Dog-friendly Lewis & Clark Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly Lewis & Clark Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Golden
Dog-friendly Lewis & Clark Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Zebulon Pike Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Zebulon Pike Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Golden
Zebulon Pike Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly Jim Bridger Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly Jim Bridger Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Golden
Dog-friendly Jim Bridger Cabin on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly John C Frémont Lodge on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly John C Frémont Lodge on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Golden
Dog-friendly John C Frémont Lodge on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly Kit Carson Cottage on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly Kit Carson Cottage on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Golden
Dog-friendly Kit Carson Cottage on Coal Creek - Boulder/Golden
Dog-friendly Buffalo Bill Lodge on Coal Creek
Dog-friendly Buffalo Bill Lodge on Coal Creek
Golden
Dog-friendly Buffalo Bill Lodge on Coal Creek
Spacious Oasis, 5-bedroom house in Boulder with Views, 5.5 miles from Pearl St
Spacious Oasis, 5-bedroom house in Boulder with Views, 5.5 miles from Pearl St
2 out of 5
Boulder
Spacious Oasis, 5-bedroom house in Boulder with Views, 5.5 miles from Pearl St
Peaceful Pet-Friendly Golden Cabin: 17 Mi to Town!
Peaceful Pet-Friendly Golden Cabin: 17 Mi to Town!
Golden
Peaceful Pet-Friendly Golden Cabin: 17 Mi to Town!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.