Eldorado Canyon State Park

Eldorado Canyon State Park is a protected landscape covering 1,392 acres with towering sandstone cliffs rising above South Boulder Creek. The area offers hiking trails of different difficulty levels, climbing routes, picnic areas, and restroom facilities for visitors exploring the canyon.

Colorado purchased the canyon in 1978 to prevent it from becoming a rock quarry and preserve its natural landscape. This action marked a turning point in protecting the site for future use and enjoyment.

Native American Ute peoples once sought spiritual connection in this canyon, and their presence shaped how the land was used and understood. Today, visitors walk through a place that carries this deeper cultural meaning alongside its natural features.

The park is open year-round and welcomes visitors of all outdoor experience levels with trails and activities suited to different abilities. Weather conditions can change quickly in the canyon, so bringing layers and sturdy footwear is advisable.

More than 500 climbing routes scale the canyon walls, with formations bearing names like Wind Tower, The Bastille, and Whale's Tail that draw climbers from around the world. These named features have become local landmarks recognized for their varying degrees of difficulty.

Location: Colorado

Inception: 1978

Operator: Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Website: https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/Parks/eldoradocanyon

GPS coordinates: 39.93060,-105.29200

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29