The Ultimate Challenge: South Boulder Peak’s Steep and Scenic Ascent

South Boulder Peak via Homestead Trail | 07

Summit Series: Essential Hiking Guides is a series dedicated to providing hikers of all abilities clear and concise information in an easy-to-read format that is readable in just a few minutes while providing you with all essential information in just one place.

Overview: Hiking South Boulder Peak

The South Boulder Peak hike is one of the most challenging and rewarding trails in the Boulder, Colorado area. Located within the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, it offers stunning views, rugged terrain, and a challenging ascent for those looking to test their stamina. The South Boulder Peak via Homestead Trail route offers an alternative path to the summit of South Boulder Peak, starting from a different trailhead compared to the more commonly used South Mesa Trailhead. This route takes you through scenic meadows and forests, providing a mix of easier terrain in the beginning and steep, challenging sections toward the end.

The Hike to South Boulder Peak

Location: South Boulder Peak, Boulder, Colorado
Trailhead: Doudy Draw Trailhead (off Eldorado Springs Drive)
Distance: Approximately 8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 3,000 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highest Point: 8,549 feet above sea level
Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

South Boulder Peak Via Homestead Trail Route

Starting Point: Doudy Draw Trailhead

The hike begins at the Doudy Draw Trailhead, located off Eldorado Springs Drive. This trailhead is a bit less crowded than the South Mesa Trailhead, providing a quieter start to your hike.
You’ll start by hiking along the Doudy Draw Trail, a relatively easy and scenic trail that passes through open meadows, with views of the Flatirons and surrounding foothills.

Homestead Trail

After a short while, you’ll branch off onto the Homestead Trail. This trail has a gentle incline, weaving through grassy meadows and forested areas. It’s a peaceful and relatively easy hike, with wildflowers often blooming in the spring and early summer.
The Homestead Trail connects back with the Mesa Trail, leading you closer to the base of the mountain.

Mesa Trail and Shadow Canyon

Once you meet up with the Mesa Trail, you’ll follow it for a bit before reaching the Shadow Canyon Trail, which is where the hike starts to get much more difficult.
The Shadow Canyon section is steep and rocky, with switchbacks, boulders, and a challenging ascent. You’ll be climbing through the canyon with large cliffs on either side, and this is where most of the elevation gain occurs.
This part of the hike can be exhausting, so take your time and watch your footing, especially if there’s snow or ice on the trail.

Final Ascent to South Boulder Peak

After you exit the canyon, you’ll reach the saddle between Bear Peak and South Boulder Peak. At this point, you’ll turn toward South Boulder Peak for the final push.
The trail becomes less crowded here, and you’ll need to scramble up a rocky section to reach the summit. The peak itself offers a sense of solitude and wide-open views.

South Boulder Peak Hike: Highlights

Varied Terrain: You’ll experience everything from open meadows to rugged, rocky trails and steep inclines. The first portion of the hike is relatively easy, while the second half is a strenuous climb.
Scenic Views: From the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of the Continental Divide, the Indian Peaks Wilderness, and the Boulder Valley. On clear days, you can even see Denver and the Great Plains stretching to the east. The peak is less crowded than nearby Bear Peak, providing a sense of solitude and immersion in nature.
Flora and Fauna: The hike passes through various ecosystems, from open meadows and ponderosa pine forests to rockier, alpine-like terrain as you near the peak. You might spot wildlife such as mule deer, birds of prey, and even the occasional black bear.
Challenging Ascent: The trail is steep and rugged, especially in the last mile before the summit. You’ll encounter rocky sections, particularly when you approach the ridge leading to the top. Hikers should be prepared for a workout, as the elevation gain is significant.
Less Crowded: While South Mesa Trailhead and the standard route can get busy, the Homestead Trail starting from Doudy Draw is often quieter, providing a more peaceful hiking experience.

Know Before You Go: Hiking South Boulder Peak

Seasonal Considerations

Summer and Early Fall: The best time to hike this trail is during the warmer months when the trail is mostly clear of snow.
Spring: In spring, the meadows along the Homestead Trail are often covered in wildflowers, making this section particularly beautiful.
Winter: Winter hiking is possible but more difficult, especially in Shadow Canyon, which can be icy and dangerous. Microspikes or crampons may be needed in winter conditions.

Helpful Tips

Start Early: As with many hikes in the Boulder area, starting early helps avoid the crowds and afternoon thunderstorms that are common in the summer.
Bring Plenty of Water: The hike is long and strenuous, with no water sources along the way.
Prepare for the Ascent: The section through Shadow Canyon is the most difficult, so be prepared for a steep, rocky climb that will test your endurance.
Layer Up: The temperature can change significantly as you ascend, especially at the summit, so pack extra layers.

What To Bring: Hiking South Boulder Peak

For your hike to South Boulder Peak, it’s essential to be well-prepared, as the trail is long, strenuous, and involves significant elevation gain.

Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes: Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots or shoes with good traction are essential, especially for the rocky sections in Shadow Canyon.
Daypack: A comfortable daypack to carry your essentials.
Water: Bring at least 2-3 liters of water, depending on the weather and your hiking pace. There are no water sources along the trail.
Snacks and Food: Pack energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, nuts, fruit, or trail mix. For longer hikes, consider a light lunch (sandwich, energy bars, etc.).
Navigation: While the trail is well-marked, it’s always smart to have a map, GPS, or trail app downloaded in case you lose the trail, especially if it’s your first time hiking here.
Layers: Even if the day starts warm, temperatures can drop, especially at higher elevations. Bring:
- Moisture-wicking base layer
- Insulating mid-layer (like a fleece or light jacket)
- Windproof and waterproof jacket (to protect from wind or sudden rain)
Sun Protection: The trail is exposed in parts, so bring:
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
Trekking Poles (optional but helpful): They can be useful for maintaining balance, especially on the steep and rocky sections of the hike, particularly in Shadow Canyon.
First Aid Kit: A small kit with bandages, blister care (moleskin or blister pads), and basic medical supplies is a good idea for any long hike.
Headlamp or Flashlight: If you’re starting early or expect to be out late, having a light source is crucial.
Emergency Items:
- Whistle for signaling in case of emergency
- Space blanket or emergency bivy in case the weather turns
- Multi-tool or knife
- Firestarter or lighter
Microspikes or Crampons (if hiking in winter): For icy sections, especially in Shadow Canyon.
Insect Repellent: In the warmer months, especially in the lower elevations.
Gaiters (if muddy or snowy conditions are expected): To keep debris out of your boots.

By being prepared with the right gear, you’ll be able to enjoy your hike to South Boulder Peak safely and comfortably!

Trail Etiquette Reminders

Hiking trail etiquette helps ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful experience for all hikers and preserves the natural environment.

Stick to designated paths to protect vegetation and minimize erosion.
Pack out all trash, including food scraps.
Leave natural objects and historical artifacts as you found them.
Uphill hikers have the right of way.
Step aside to let faster hikers and trail runners pass.
Yield to equestrians by stepping off the trail on the downhill side.
Avoid loud conversations and music to maintain the serenity of nature.
Use earphones if you must listen to music.
Observe animals from a distance.
Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
Keep dogs on a leash unless otherwise specified.
Clean up after your pets.
Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Be courteous and greet fellow hikers.
Avoid blocking the trail when stopping for breaks.
Adhere to rules regarding fires, camping, and trail use.
Obtain any necessary permits.
Do not pick plants or collect rocks and other natural items.

By following these guidelines, hikers can help preserve the natural beauty of trails and ensure a positive experience for everyone.

About The Author

Isabel is a single mother and avid traveler based out of Cleveland, Ohio. Just over one year ago, she established this travel blog as a passion project. Letting her ‘creative juices’ flow, she was able to combine to of her hobbies: writing and photography.

Isabel’s goal for this pursuit is to highlight a growing collection of destinations that cater to a wide variety of lifestyle and budgets. Isabel has undertaken a variety of projects including: general travel guides, guides to museums and other attractions, restaurant reviews, reviews on unique lodging and even commissioned work allowing her to work with in conjunction with tourism boards to promote a certain destination.

In addition to dedicating near-full-time hours to her job as a travel blogger and micro-influencer, Isabel is a full-time emergency room paramedic and part-time firefighter. Above all, Isabel is a devoted mother to her 8-year-old daughter, Lily.