South Boulder Peak (Image by Victor Maschek, Shutterstock)
It’s a breathtaking vantage point. From the South Mesa trailhead in Eldorado Springs, Colorado (a small community on the outskirts of Boulder), the beauty that is both South Boulder and Bear Peak comes into focus. From afar, it could be tough for anyone to gauge the steep and sometimes relentless struggle and incline this trek has to offer. But for anyone who has summited this beautiful spot, they know the return on your investment for this local thriller is worth the wait, and the hardship.
At 8,549 and 8,461 feet respectively, South Boulder and Bear Peak are the two highest points in Boulder. Their striking appearance is seen from near and far, yet, there is one feature that distinguishes the two. In 2012, the Flagstaff Fire, caused by a lightning strike, burned almost 300 acres, including the approach to the two peaks’ bases, as well as the saddle that separates them. The final third of this trek displays the tale-te