Nestled within Eldorado Canyon State Park in Boulder, Colorado, Rattlesnake Gulch Trail serves up a challenging 4-mile, point-to-point ride with a distinct uphill battle. While the trail offers commendable vistas, particularly at the overlook, its difficulty level and terrain have left many riders with mixed feelings.
Directions:
From Boulder, head south on CO HWY 93 for 5 miles until you reach CO HWY 170. Turn west and drive for 2.5 miles to the park entrance. The trailhead is a couple of miles into the park on the south side of the road. For convenient parking, use the lot located beyond the trailhead.
Prepare for a relentless climb that regularly hits 20% grades. Loose rocks exacerbate the challenge, making the uphill a test of skill and stamina. Advisedly, tackle the loop counter-clockwise to avoid an even steeper, rockier ascent. The downhill run is equally demanding, requiring acute attention to steep trail sides.
Be cautious on the downhill segments; the trail has been the site of nasty spills owing to inattention to loose rocks and steep edges.
The park charges an $8 parking fee, and opinions are divided on whether the challenging conditions and great views offer good value for this fee.
The trail is popular for hiking, which means riders should be cautious of pedestrian traffic, especially during the downhill stretches.
Rattlesnake Gulch is not a trail for everyone. The grueling uphill and the technical terrain may deter less experienced riders. However, if you're up for a tough physical and technical challenge, this trail offers that in spades—along with views that might just make the struggle worthwhile.
10 mi 
