The visitor center at Eldorado Canyon State Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but it is closed on Thursdays.
The entrance fee at Eldorado Canyon State Park is $10 for a daily vehicle pass or $4 for an individual daily pass. Annual passes are also available, starting at $80 for a single vehicle and $120 for a family pass.
From Boulder: Take CO-93 S to CO-170 W for 5 miles to park entrance. From Denver: Take US-36 W to CO-93 S to CO-170 W. About 30 mins from Boulder and 1 hour from Denver.
Parking inside Eldorado Canyon State Park is limited and requires a timed vehicle reservation. No parking allowed in Eldorado Springs. No overnight parking. Fees apply. No specific RV or motorcycle restrictions mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Located just south of Boulder, Colorado, Eldorado Canyon State Park stands as a testament to the natural splendor and rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains. This outdoor paradise spans over 1,400 acres and offers diverse activities for nature enthusiasts, from exhilarating rock climbing to serene hiking trails. The park is renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs, which attract climbers worldwide, and its breathtaking vistas, which provide ample photography and quiet contemplation opportunities. Eldorado Canyon’s rich history and varied landscapes make it a must-visit destination for adventurers. Hikers can explore over 11 miles of trails that wind through lush forests, along sparkling streams, and up to stunning overlooks. For those seeking a more vertical challenge, the park’s iconic cliffs offer some of the best traditional climbing routes in the country, catering to climbers of all skill levels. Beyond the physical activities, visitors can immerse themselves in the park’s tranquil beauty, observing the diverse wildlife and native plants that thrive in this protected area. Whether you’re a seasoned climber, an avid hiker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, Eldorado Canyon State Park has something to offer.
- Area (mi²)
- 2.2
- Annual visitors
- 530 000
- Established year
- 1978
Top 3 Facts about Eldorado Canyon State Park
The park features trails that reach elevations from 5,800 to 8,800 feet, offering diverse hiking and climbing experiences across a significant vertical range.
Rock Climbing Mecca — over 500 climbing routes on sandstone cliffs.
Natural Diversity — despite small size, rich in wildlife like golden eagles, deer, bears, and mountain lions.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check park website for alerts, conditions, maps, and regulations.
Pack Appropriately
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and sun protection.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance, don’t feed animals, leash pets, and clean up after them.
Stay Informed
Know and follow climbing regulations. Respect closures and trail etiquette.
Seasons
Spring is vibrant with blooming wildflowers and high creek water levels. Cool to warm temperatures make it ideal for hiking and climbing.
Warm and sunny days make summer ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking. Arrive early for parking; bring water and sun protection.
Golden aspens and crisp air make fall a favorite. Great for photography, hiking, and climbing with fewer crowds.
Snowy landscapes and fewer visitors make winter serene. Good for hiking, snowshoeing; check weather and trail conditions first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Eldorado Canyon State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Denver is approximately 31 miles and takes about 52 minutes. You can take I-25 north to State Highway 36, then head west toward Boulder and follow the signs to Eldorado Springs and Highway 170.
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The Streamside Trail and the Fowler Trail are excellent options for kids. The Streamside Trail is a short, 1-mile roundtrip hike that follows South Boulder Creek and has a stroller-friendly section. The Fowler Trail is also easy, about 1.4 miles roundtrip, and offers great views of the canyon with a packed gravel path suitable for strollers.
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Yes, dogs must be on a hand-held leash that is 6 feet or less and under control at all times. This rule applies everywhere in the park, including access to climbing areas and climbing staging areas.
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Parking is available but requires a timed entry reservation on Saturdays, Sundays, and summer holidays from May 1 to October 1. There are only 205 parking spaces, and no parking is allowed outside the park entrance. Reservations guarantee parking, but not necessarily near your chosen trailhead.
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Top activities include hiking on over 17 miles of trails, rock climbing on more than 500 technical routes, and picnicking at one of the 11 scenic sites along South Boulder Creek. You can also engage in mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fishing for brown and rainbow trout. Horseback riding and photography are additional popular activities.
