Carpenter Peak is a fun, longer hike to some fantastic views, and super close to Denver. This hike is in Roxborough State Park, so there will be a fee to get in/park. There is a small self service kiosk at the entrance of the park where you can purchase day passes, or you can get annual passes from the visitor's center. You can also purchase a permit HERE. One thing to know, there are NO pets allowed in the park.
Roxborough itself is a gem with a few different trails. If you are looking for something a bit more on the easy/flat side of things, check out our guide on the Fountain Valley Loop Trail, also in the park.
Park near the visitor center and take the trailhead for the Willow Creek Loop. It is just a bit south of the main Fountain Valley Loop Trail.
The trail starts off pretty flat and through some marvelous grassy fields with towering red rocks protruding from the earth. Follow the signs towards the Carpenter Peak Trail.
You will start to gain elevation, there are a few switchbacks. There are some fantastic benches with views of Roxborough below on the way up the peak. You'll climb up the peak, going through some nice forest areas with some perfect shade.
As you approach the summit, you will see there are some huge boulders at the top. Perfect flat sitting rocks for relaxing and enjoying the views that you have earned! On a clear day you can see all the way to Longs Peak in the North and you can also see Denver's Skyline.
Overall this is a fun, fairly easy peak to climb close to Denver. It is usually not terribly busy either, as Roxborough Park labels this trail as "strenuous" which scares a lot of people off. But don't worry, you got this!
There are three decently sized parking lots close to the trailhead here in Roxborough. Remember, it is a state park, so you will need a permit. You can buy daily permits from a self serve kiosk at the entrance to the park, or purchase annual permits from the visitor's center. Or you can purchase a state park permit HERE.
