Fowler Trail – Eldorado Canyon Sp

Distance: 2.2 miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: dirt Activity: Hiking Best Season: year-round Typical Time: 1-2 hours Fee: $10/vehicle Dogs: True Permit: False

Fowler Trail offers an accessible introduction to the spectacular scenery of Eldorado Canyon State Park on a 2.2-mile loop that combines riparian creek walking with dramatic cliff-base terrain. The route follows South Boulder Creek through a lush riparian corridor of cottonwoods and willows before climbing to trace the base of the canyon's towering sandstone walls, delivering close-up views of the world-class climbing routes that have made Eldorado famous in the climbing community.

Water ouzels, also known as American dippers, bob and dive in the creek year-round, and the riparian zone supports abundant birdlife throughout the seasons. In spring, snowmelt swells the creek into a rushing torrent; in summer, the cool canyon air provides welcome relief from Front Range heat. The trail gains only 300 feet and is suitable for most fitness levels while still delivering the visual punch Eldorado is known for. Leashed dogs are welcome. The loop returns along a higher bench with views across the canyon before descending back to the trailhead. A $10 per vehicle fee is charged at the park entrance.