Falling for Autumn Hikes

By Bette Erickson

FALL. AUTUMN. INDIAN SUMMER.

Whatever you choose to call these days, most are soft, colorful, and warm as cream. Following are two of my favorite local fall hikes:

Eben G. Fine Park

A nice, short hike climbing about 560 feet in 1.2 miles is the Viewpoint Trail at Eben G. Fine Park. Named for an early Boulder pharmacist and avid hiker, the area along the Boulder Creek Path is a pleasant, shady little commons – a good location for picnicking and lounging.

Access the Viewpoint Trail to the south across the street from the Eben G. Fine parking lot. The footpath winds and climbs southward, with numerous switchbacks and ends at Panorama Point. Another option from the park is north across Boulder Creek to The Peoples’ Crossing (formally Settlers Park). If you prefer to explore those trails beyond, look for the tunnel to the north at the end of the park to link to the Red Rocks Trail and The Peoples’ Crossing.

To the trailhead: The park is located near the intersection of Third Street and Arapahoe Avenue in Boulder.

Distance: 2.4 miles roundtrip

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation gain: 560 feet

Dogs: Yes, on leash or under voice and sight command

Jurisdiction: City of Boulder Parks and Recreation Department, 303-413-7200

Skyscraper Reservoir

The trail to Skyscraper Reservoir, situated in the south eastern portion of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, is a relatively easy trail gaining just enough elevation to make you feel like you’ve done some exercise.

You’ll start your hike to Skyscraper Reservoir from the Hessie Trailhead. Take the Devils Thumb Trail west for 2.3 miles to hook up with Woodland Lake Trail. Be sure not to veer left onto the King Lake Trail.

Skyscraper Reservoir sits just above timberline at 11,221 feet. Cutthroat Trout are stocked in the cold lake which is about 28 feet deep at its deepest spot. Gaining just under 2,000 feet, fit visitors hiking at a consistent pace can expect to reach the sparkling lake in about an hour and a half.

To the trailhead: From Colorado 119 through Nederland drive onehalf mile south toward Eldora. Stay right instead of going to Eldora Ski Area and continue on Eldorado Ave. as far as you can (less than a half mile, to the fork in the road) to the Hessie Townsite. Park along the roadside where permitted.

Distance: 5.6 miles roundtrip

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Elevation gain: 1,727

Dogs: Yes, on leash

Jurisdiction: Boulder Ranger District, Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, 303-541-2500.