Rattlesnake Gulch Trail

Eldorado Canyon State Park

Distance: 2.4 mi (RT)
Elevation Gain: 1,033ft
Managing Agency: Colorado State Parks
Fee: Yes

Directions: From Denver take I-70 West to Hwy 58 West. Turn north on Hwy 93 and just before you reach South Boulder, turn left (west) on Eldorado Springs Drive. Go through the town of Eldorado Springs and enter the State Park. Follow the park's road to the Fowler/Rattlesnake Gulch Trailhead.

Hike Description: This hike is the premier hike in the Park. The trail switchbacks up the easter slopes to the Continental Divide Overlook and the ruins of an old Hotel. From here you get an amazing view down the canyon to Shirttail Peak and Eldorado Mountain. The view is simply amazing, the rock formations forming the entrance to the canyon are iconic, and you get a glorious view of them from the entire trail. The trail gains over 1,000 feet but the grade is steady making this a great moderate hike and the best way to experience Eldorado Canyon.