A loop trail that starts through open terrain that was burned in a forest fire in 2000. The trail descends down to South Boulder Creek where there is a picnic area and several small waterfalls. The trail then heads south in Eldorado Canyon State Park where you can often view trains traveling along the Rio Grande Railroad. The trail then circles back towards South Boulder Creek and another waterfall as it passes into Eldorado Canyon. From there you start climbing again as you circle back to your starting point.

This route is a multi-use trail so watch for mountain bikers or horse riders as you hike.

A short, but difficult trail that starts in Chautauqua Park in Boulder. The trail starts climbing immediately and rarely lets up. Although much of the trail is a rocky, dirt path, portions force you to scramble over rock slides or even climb short rock faces to reach the top of the mountain. The lower portions of the trail are suitable for children, but once you pass above trail junction 4 (see the map), it’s far too dangerous to bring young children along.

Panoramic views are plentiful. Early in the journey, you’ll have views of Boulder and the surronding areas. Later in the hike, you’ll be able to look out towards Denver. On a clear day, even downtown Denver is visible in the distance.

The trail starts from The Trading Post, the park’s visitor center and gift shop. It’s a relatively flat hike that circles four of the park’s major rock formations that give the park its name. The trail crosses Red Rock Park Rd twice during the loop and passes the Red Rocks Amphitheatre before returning to the visitor center.

It is possible to run into rattlesnakes and poison ivy in the area, but if you heed the posted signs to stay on the trail and avoid climbing on the rocks, you should be able to avoid these hazards. There are numerous unprotected drop-offs and rock stairways on this hike, so be careful and keep an eye on your little ones.