Trail Description

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The challenging hike to South Boulder Peak rewards visitors with unparalleled 360-degree views of the eastern plains, Boulder's front and back ranges, Indian Peaks and Continental Divide. Boulder’s extensive trail network allows for several routing options: the following describes the Towhee-Shadow Canyon-Bear Peak West Ridge route, and is highly recommended for its compelling scenery and lighter traffic.

From the South Mesa Trailhead parking lot, cross over the footbridge and follow signs to the Towhee Trail (.1 mile) - bear left. The Towhee Trail rises gradually through open grassy slopes for .5 miles, then narrows into a thatch brush-lined gulley paralleled by a small stream.

The Towhee Trail merges with the Homestead Trail after 1.15 miles, bears right and continues on as the Shadow Canyon Trail. The Shadow Canyon Trail joins a fire road at 1.35 miles (6,275’); this is the first of three access points to the Mesa Trail. Turn left on the fire road and climb methodically over well-groomed terrain for .7 miles to the last Mesa Trail access point, and beginning of travel up Shadow Canyon (2.1 miles : 6,582’).

Here the trail is considerably more strenuous, climbing 1,967’ in just 1.25 miles to reach the summit. Lingering winter conditions will amplify this challenge. The trail twists and weaves tightly along a faintly marked path amid notably large boulders and old-growth ponderosa and lodgepole. Look for occasional signs posted on trees to the right of the trail for guidance. Though views are limited, the dark, boulder-laden forest itself is quite scenic and serene.

The grade eases upon reaching the Shadow Canyon Trail - Bear Peak West Ridge Trail junction (3 miles : 8,155’). Take note of young aspen groves on the saddle before turning left (south) for the last .35 miles to South Boulder Peak. The final 100 yards run up steep and loose scree; extra caution is necessary when snow, ice or strong winds are present. The summit is small and pointed, but the large boulders comprising it afford ample room for a handful of visitors to find small nooks with sensational panoramas.

GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84

• N39 56.326 W105 15.493 - South Mesa Trailhead

• N39 56.560 W105 15.906 - Traveling west on the Towhee Trail

• N39 56.763 W105 17.220 - 3rd Mesa Trail junction; begin travel up Shadow Canyon

• N39 56.847 W105 17.319 - Shadow Canyon 1

• N39 57.124 W105 17.606 - Sahdow Canyon 2

• N39 57.404 W105 17.834 - Shadow Canyon - Bear Peak West Ridge junction (saddle)

• N39 57.281 W105 17.915 - Approach to summit

• N39 57.215 W105 17.967 - South Boulder Peak Summit

Worth Noting

• If time and weather permit, Bear Peak is only .4 miles north from the Shadow Canyon Trail - Bear Peak West Ridge Trail junction.



• Note that several spurs stray off the main trail route during the first 2 miles.



• Dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times unless they meet voice and sight control requirements.



• Parking lots fill up quickly throughout the year, especially on weekends; arrive early to secure a space. Parking restrictions on Eldorado Springs Road are strictly enforced.



• Though seldom encountered, bear and mountain lion inhabit this area. Dawn and dusk travelers should exercise vigilance.

Directions to Trailhead

From Boulder, take Broadway South which will turn into HWY 93. Go for 2.6 miles on HWY 93 and take a right onto Eldorado Springs Drive / HWY 170. There will be a gas station at the corner. Follow Eldorado Springs Drive / HWY 170 for 1.8 miles towards Eldorado Canyon State Park and look for the parking area on the right hand side of the street.

Contact Information

Boulder County Parks & Open Space
5201 St. Vrain Road
Longmont, Colorado 80503
Phone: 303.678.6200
Fax: 303.678.6180
www.co.boulder.co.us/openspace