On the Fall Solstice or near-abouts in 2025, I visited Eldorado State Park. This park has a trail that is listed in the 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Denver and Boulder at #34. Like many Spanish-origin names in Colorado, the name "Eldorado" has an anglicized spelling, so it's not "El Dorado". Instead of hiking the Eldorado Canyon Trail, as suggested in the book, I hiked the loop called Rattlesnake Gulch Trail.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DO35DGRDseH/
The trail is challenging, as there is significant uphill segments with several large cutbacks. I was able to visit on a day that was comfortably warm. Major portions of the hike are shaded. There are two uncommon points of interest on this trail too.
Crags Hotel Ruins is a location where a hotel once stood but long since burned down. The ruins of central fireplace still remain, along with a few other fleeting signs of some long-past structures.
Also on this loop, you'll find the Continental Divide Overlook. This a great location for some awesome Rocky Mountain views (presumably including the Continental Divide).
I really enjoyed Eldorado Canyon State Park. This will be a location to which I'd love to return. Parking is $10 and is paid upon arrival. Reservations are required for weekends between May 1 and October 1.
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