Roxborough State Park is a gem of a place, and super close to Denver! With gorgeous red rock features, wildlife, and being generally less crowded than other parks, this is a fantastic place to spend a few hours in nature! We'll be covering the Fountain Valley Loop Trail in the park. If you want a longer hike with some elevation gain in the park, check out our Carpenter Peak Guide. One thing to know, there are NO pets allowed in the park.
This trail is a great place to bring the whole family, and/or visitors from out of state. It is fairly low in elevation, perfect for getting used to hiking at altitude. A wide loop trail at only 2.4 miles round trip, makes it an awesome afternoon escape. No dogs or bikes are allowed on this trail.
The first half of the loop (going counter-clockwise) is a trek through grasslands. Keep an eye out for the deer, or a golden eagle overhead! Make sure to take the detour up to Lyon's Overlook. It is a gorgeous platform overlooking the dramatic rock features of the park, with breathtaking views.
About half way through the loop, you will come across some history, with the summer home of Henry Persse, who bought the land in 1887, and aspired to turn it into a resort. His two story home built in 1903, as well as some other farm buildings still stand.
The last half of the hike goes directly through the enormous sandstone rock features, surrounding you with beauty on all sides. Bring you camera, this hike offers some fantastic photo spots!
Being a state park, you will need a permit. 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.
A wide, flat trail with amazing views and not super long in length, this is a great place to bring the whole family!
Roxborough's stunning rock formations make for some fantastic photography opportunities. There are also a lot of wildlife in the park for wildlife photography. I can't wait to get back for a sunset! Bring the camera!
There is a fantastic little picnic area in front of the visitor's center with a trashcan and restrooms!
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.
