Eben G. Fine Park
Boulder is famous for its picturesque namesake creek and is home to a wide range of water sports. One of the best places to enjoy Boulder Creek is at Eben G. Fine Park, near the trail’s western end.
A former pharmacist, Fine became Boulder’s strongest promoter when he gave presentations of hand-colored lantern slides around the country. You can return to our home page.
History
When pharmacist Eben Fine attended a convention in Dallas, Texas, he showed hand-colored-lantern slides of the Boulder area to encourage people to visit. Locals called him a “showman” because of his colorful presentations. The park honors his memory.
The city of Boulder purchased the property, formerly known as Settler’s Park, in the 1960s to use as open space. The Peoples’ Crossing Trailhead is located here and is the connection point for the Red Rocks trails.
The Victorian home along Pearl Street was once owned by the Fullen family, whose son Hiram wrote for the local newspaper. The house is now part of the Boulder Historical Museum. Dedicated to the works of abstract expressionist Clyfford Still, this museum is a must-see for art lovers. The museum also offers a variety of special multimedia programs throughout the year. Distinguished guests who have appeared here include Eleanor Roosevelt and the Dalai Lama.
Amenities
What Boulder local hasn’t enjoyed this shady park during a hot summer day? The park is situated on the banks of Boulder Creek and offers plenty of places to relax or play sports.
It was named after Eben Fine, a pharmacist who became one of Boulder’s biggest promoters. He went on an annual lecture tour showing hand-colored lantern slides of the Boulder area, eventually earning him the nickname “Mr. Boulder.”
The park features a playground, picnic areas (covered and uncovered), public restrooms, hiking trails, a historic stone shelter and is available for group use on a first-come, first-serve basis. The park is also home to the Boulder Farmers’ Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit and local food culture of this city. Boulder Creek Path is easily accessible from the park, and a multi-use pedestrian bridge crosses Boulder Creek to The People’s Crossing Trailhead and the Red Rocks Trail directly north. Learn more about Westminster here.
Getting There
A kitschy, granola town with big-city amenities, Boulder offers a lively university scene, artful farm-to-table culinary delights, and immediate access to the iconic Flatirons. Whether it’s for a day in the sun on a hot summer hike or a colorful stroll on a brisk fall walk, Eben G Fine Park provides a relaxing haven from the busy downtown streets and a mellow escape along Boulder Creek.
Kids love splashing around the playground, playing on the grass, and tubing the creek. If the water levels are low enough, it’s even possible to float from the park all the way through town! The best time to tube is usually from April through August. Water levels change daily, however, so be sure to check conditions!
Bring a picnic lunch, or stop by the historic stone picnic shelter at the entrance to the park. Picnicking is permitted, although grilling is prohibited. Cell service is good at most locations throughout the park.
Activities
Located just steps from Pearl Street – a bustling stretch of shops, restaurants, and breweries – and immediately before Boulder Canyon, Eben G Fine Park is a popular hangout for all ages. Its shady lawns and Boulder Creek location are a welcome respite from the summer sun, while joggers and cyclists love its manicured pathways.
A slew of water activities await at this beautiful Boulder park. Cool off with a paddle at Viele Lake or wade into Boulder Creek, where you can also find the city’s only sledding hill.
During the week, the park hosts all-ages concerts from the Boulder Concert Band and Friday Bandshell Boogie events. The all-ages dances feature Boulder’s top DJs who craft transformational journeys with pulsing electronic music including funk, disco, soul, and club. Pearl Street Arts Fest, held in the fall, showcases works from more than 200 artists. From whimsical and modern sculptures to traditional watercolors, oils, and more. The festival is free and open to the public. Next blog post.
Driving directions from Dan’s Window Cleaning to Eben G. Fine Park
Driving directions from Eben G. Fine Park to Scott Carpenter Park