With a landscape as gorgeous, mountainous, and – let’s face it – undeniably epic as Colorado’s, it can be a challenge to sift through the overwhelming number of trails that crisscross the state. In fact, sometimes the hardest part about hiking in Colorado is just choosing where to go in the first place! But for an easy trek that is packed with a surprising number of larger-than-life rewards AND is only a short drive from Denver, one special trail in Eldorado Canyon State Park is hard to beat. Accessible, beautiful, and delightfully overlooked, Fowler Trail is one of the most incredible hikes in the Front Range and has all the makings of a brag-worthy outdoor adventure. Let’s go!
There's no denying the spectacular, sawtooth-like grandeur of Eldorado Canyon. The scenic canyon has made a name for itself as one of Colorado's best rock climbing meccas, thanks to its iconic formations.
Half a dozen trails meander through the open space at the mouth of Eldorado Canyon, along the water, up into the trees, and through unexpected pockets of vibrant wildflower meadows in spring.
Fortunately, Eldo is only a few minutes from Boulder and less than an hour from Denver, making it an easy all-seasons getaway without the grueling elevation or lengthy drive.
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Fowler is just one of the trail options here, but it just happens to be one of our favorite hidden gem hikes in the area.
The path starts just outside of the official Eldorado Canyon State Park boundary, but before you even reach the trailhead the scenery will drop your jaw and have you reaching for your camera.
The magnificent angled peaks seem to rise up out of nowhere, a prelude to the towering formations in the distance.
Don't be frightened off by the impressive and imposing surroundings - Fowler Trail is a surprisingly easy jaunt through diverse scenery. And, at only four miles round-trip, this out-and-back hike makes an ideal trail run or after-work escape into nature.
The gentle slope and wide, open trail is the result of its history. It was graded as a railroad bed back in the late 1800s, although tracks were never laid. Fortunately, the flat path makes it perfect for newbie hikers and pros alike.
But the real delight of Fowler is in the unique scenery. Towering red canyon walls soar upwards on either side of the trail, showing off eons of Colorado geological history.
Right out of the trailhead gate, this hidden gem begins with a gradual climb in front of a sandstone hogback, brimming with colorful layers of ancient rock.
You'll also find markers at the beginning of the trail, which note some of the trail's history and abundant flora/fauna to look out for along the way.
A majestic cutout viewpoint of Eldorado Canyon and Boulder’s famous Flatirons is definitely one of the highlights of the trail. It's absolutely stunning!
If you time your journey just right, catching this overlook on the way back offers some breathtaking views of the sunset and the clouds moving off in the distance.
In warmer months, you'll also be treated to the incredible sight of tiny rock climbers dangling from the sheer rock faces in the distance. Since the Fowler Trail passes right by the infamous Bastille -- it's really quite a treat!
After a mile or so of weaving through the magnificent canyon walls, this segment of Eldorado ends at the conjunction with Rattlesnake Gulch trail. From here, just go back the way you came!
While Fowler Trail is short and sweet and doable for all ages, it definitely shouldn't be overlooked by more seasoned hikers. The beautiful, diverse scenery is hard to beat!
For more mileage, connections to the Goshawk and Spring Brook trails are marked. Or, for a more challenging hike and for access to one of the most incredible official overlooks in the area, continuing onto Rattlesnake Gulch offers views of a one hundred-mile stretch of the Continental Divide that is absolutely stellar.
However, keep in mind Rattlesnake Gulch is not wheelchair accessible.
Fowler Trail is hikeable in every season, but taking precautions is a must. Rattlesnakes are known to enjoy the scenery as much as the locals do, and in winter, microspikes and trekking poles are strongly advised.
Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect day hike to tackle solo or a family-friendly getaway, our state has got it! But for an easy escape into some of the best rugged terrain that Colorado has to offer, Fowler Trail has you covered either way.
