Roxborough State Park is one of my favorite areas to hike close to Denver, partially because it’s very similiar to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre filled with stunning red sandstone. Three friends and I took advantage of the first 80° day in Denver and hit the trail for a catch-up hike. We debated on tackling Carpenter Peak or going for a flatter option. Since all of us had worked out hard the day before, we opted for flatter. But, we did add a nice elevation gain for the second half of our hike.
Getting There:
It’s 20 miles south of downtown Denver. Go early to beat the crowds as there is only one road into the park and all trails start from the visitor center with two small parking areas.
Trail Stats:
Fountain Valley Trail – easy 2.20 mile loop, mainly flat
Willow Creek Trail – easy 1.45 miles, some shade (only took a short part)
South Rim Trail – moderate 1.83 miles, mellow climb and single track trail for part of it – great views
No dogs allowed in Roxborough State Park, but A Dog World’s, a doggie daycare, is close to the entrance where you can drop your pup off while you hike.
First Loop: Fountain Valley Trail
We were hiking on Fountain Valley Trail by 8:50am. It was a gorgeous morning with a cloudless sky. About a tenth of a mile into the hike, we detoured to an overlook spot to take in the view of the beautiful rock formations. Shortly after that detour we saw several deer. We stopped for a few minutes to look at the 1907 house and barn of Henry Persse. He owned the land that’s now Roxborough State Park. In the early 1900s he wanted to turn it into a resort.
The Connector: Willow Creek Trail
Once we looped back close to the visitor center, we decided to keep hiking taking Willow Creek Trail for a short distance to connect to South Rim Trail. Where the trail splits, we stayed to the right to hike South Rim Loop. This trail is also what you would take to get to Carpenter Peak Trail. If you go left on Willow Creek Trail, it’s a nice 1.45-mile loop.
Second Loop: South Rim Trail
Shortly after you cross a meadow, this trail quickly gains elevation. It’s not steep, just a steady incline. From the top you’re treated to wonderful views of the sandstone formations in Roxborough State Park and the city skyscrapers of Denver in the distance. On the way down you do need to pay attention to where you’re stepping as the trail narrows into a single track trail with a drop off. The descent is filled with glorious views and a nice way to end a 5-mile hike.
Author Jennifer Broome is frequently on trails in Colorado. For several other options for easy to moderate hikes near Denver, check out posts on Waterton Canyon, Flatirons Vista, and Arthur’s Rock.