Eldorado Canyon State Park is part of the Colorado State Park system. It is located in Boulder County near the city of Boulder. The park consists of two areas, the Inner Canyon (developed area) and Crescent Meadows (undeveloped area). The park encompasses 885acre with a variety of recreation opportunities available. Eldorado Canyon is home to one of the world's most accessible and comprehensive rock climbing areas. This state park is open during daylight hours only, visitors are expected to leave before dusk. A fee is required for entry, except on Colorado Day (August 1) when all state parks are free.Make Eldorado Canyon State Park a part of your Eldorado Springs vacation plans using our Eldorado Springs tour itinerary builder tool.
Ute Indians were the first inhabitants into this area that is nestled against the foothills near Boulder. The Indians lived within the walls of the canyon because they provided protection from the harsh Colorado winters. Settlers soon followed in search of gold and agriculture. Eldorado Canyon is famous for its spectacular geologic history dating back billions of years. Near the park’s entrance at the visitors center, there are rocks calculated to be over 1.5 billion years old.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, the community of Eldorado Springs was established and became known as a resort for the elite. The town offered visitors warm artesian springs and lush hotels, including the Crags Hotel, the Eldorado and the Grand View. Numerous celebrities and Denver residents enjoyed the beautiful getaway until a fire burned all these hotels in 1912. Crags Hotel operated from 1908 to 1912.
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Eldorado Canyon State Park reviews
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Small but might park full of post card views in every direction. The south boulder creek flows through the golden canyon walls leaving majestic views. The Fowler and Continental Divide trails are... more »
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Saw rattlesnakes, nice trail. Steep inclines, not for everybody. Elevation isn't too drastic here, but you still may need to be prepared. There are plenty of rock climbers to watch. Really nice area..... more »
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Beautiful place. We've only done Fowler Trail so far but definitely plan on coming back to do the others. Fowler allows dogs on leash, just keep an eye on them because there are rattlers in the area. The one this morning did give us sufficient warning but it was on the edge of the trail. There are a ton of rock climbers too. Most of Fowler Trail is flat and easy but there is a rocky section.
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Honestly this was one of the most beautiful state parks I have ever been too! It was so incredible to drive, hike and climb through!! I was amazed by how many people there were rock climbing. I could have sat and watched the scenery for hours. I had the opportunity to not only walk the trail all the way up so I could see the valley but I also made my way down to the waters edge. I found this place by accident but it was the best experience.
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