South Mesa is a very popular area that fills up quickly on the weekends. The trailhead provides access to many different trails of varying difficulty levels, and has access to South Boulder Creek.
The trailhead is open from 5 am to 11 pm daily.
Located at the trailhead.
Seven picnic tables at parking lot. Grills and stoves are prohibited.
1.7 miles west of Highway 93 on Eldorado Springs Drive (Highway 170).
Parking lot with parking fee on the north side of Eldorado Springs Drive. Information on parking permits & fees. There are 48 standard parking spaces and 3 ADA spaces. Parking is not allowed on Highway 170.
It is unsafe and illegal to park in a way that:
All vehicles parked in a manner described above are subject to being ticketed/towed.
Never park in the roadway. The roadway is defined as the space between the white (fog) line and the yellow (center) line. If ANY part of your vehicle (tire, mirror) is between the white and yellow lines, your vehicle is a hazard and can be ticketed/towed immediately.
Because parking is very limited and our trailheads are quite popular, please show up early to get a parking spot.
This area is identified as being mobility-friendly. See the Visitors Experiencing Disabilities Page for trail details.
No bicycles are allowed in this area. Mountain biking trails are available across Highway 170 in the Doudy Draw area.
South Mesa Area Dog Regulations Map
Learn about bringing your dog to OSMP. Dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times unless they meet the voice and sight control standard and display a City of Boulder Voice and Sight tag. Dog excrement removal is required by law. A dog station is available to aid in the collection of dog excrement.
Allowed on most trails. Off-trail riding is discouraged to protect rare plants and wildlife habitat. Learn more about riding your horse on OSMP.
Black bears and mountain lions inhabit this area. The area is rich with wildlife including Peregrine Falcons, Red-tailed Hawks, songbirds, mule deer, and coyotes.
