As a longtime Boulder native and an avid lover of our sprawling natural landscapes, I’ve traversed the Homestead and Mesa Trail Loop in Eldorado Springs countless times. Each journey brings its own unique beauty, but a recent hike offered me a truly extraordinary sight that I had somehow missed all these years.

Tucked amidst the majestic Flatirons, known for their striking and imposing shapes, I spotted something new—an incredible rock formation resembling an eagle, poised as if surveying the land. This eagle-shaped sentinel, carved by nature’s own artistic hand, seemed to embody the spirit of the wild that is so integral to Boulder’s charm.

Excited by this discovery, I felt compelled to share this hidden gem with others. Perhaps it’s the way the light dances across the rock at just the right moment, or maybe it’s the angle from which you gaze up at the towering formations, but once seen, this “eagle” offers a moment of awe and a fresh perspective on our beloved trails.

Sharing this discovery is more than just pointing out a natural curiosity; it’s an invitation to look deeper into what might seem familiar, to find the extraordinary in our everyday hikes, and to connect with the natural world in a way that enriches our lives. So, next time you find yourself on the Homestead and Mesa Trail, look up towards the Flatirons—maybe you, too, will catch a glimpse of the eagle watching over Boulder.

Photos: Gwen Dordick

@gwendordick on Instagram for more nature photos

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