Trail Description

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This challenging hike to Bear Peak rewards visitors with sensational views of the eastern plains, front range foothills, Indian Peaks and Continental Divide. Bear Peak’s central location within Boulder’s extensive trail network allows for several routing options: the following describes the Shadow Canyon-Bear Peak West Ridge route, and is highly recommended for its compelling scenery and lighter traffic. Note this is the shortest but most challenging route leading to Bear Peak (longer but arguably more moderate routes can be formed by connecting the The Mesa Trail with either the Bear Canyon or Fern Canyon trails).

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 markedly 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 right (north) for the final .4 miles to Bear Peak.

This short segment rises quickly up Bear Peak's narrow south and west flanks, the latter stage of which is a near-vertical climb up steep talus. Mind your footing, especially when strong winds or moisture is present. The boulder-riddled summit is small and uneven, but sure-footed scramblers will find a handful of nooks with terrific panoramas of the surrounding area.

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 spur #1

• N39 57.124 W105 17.606 - Shadow Canyon spur #2

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

• N39 57.612 W105 17.715 - Bear Peak West Ridge Trail - summit spur junction

• N39 57.616 W105 17.713 - Bear Peak

Worth Noting

• If time and weather permit, South Boulder Peak is only .35 miles south 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.


• 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.


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


• 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