Roxborough State Park
Discover Colorado's dramatic red rock landscapes with stunning geological formations and diverse wildlife, just a short drive from Denver.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Roxborough State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Colorado's dramatic red rock landscapes with stunning geological formations and diverse wildlife, just a short drive from Denver.
"Roxborough Park is absolutely stunning — it feels like a scene straight out of a painting."
🚗 Arrive Before 8 AM
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends! Get there early to snag a spot and beat the crowds.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The high altitude and sun can be intense. Stay hydrated on the trails!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Red Rock Formations
Witness dramatic, ancient red sandstone slabs jutting out of the foothills. A truly unique geological spectacle.
Fountain Valley Trail
Visitor Center Area
An easy 2.3-mile loop offering stunning views of the park's iconic red rocks and diverse plant life.
+1Willow Creek Trail
Near Visitor Center
A shorter, 1.4-mile loop perfect for a quick stroll, showcasing the park's unique slanted rock formations.
+1
Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including wild turkeys, deer, and various bird species, especially in the mornings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early!
Hydration & Sun Protection are Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Before 8 AM
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends! Get there early to snag a spot and beat the crowds.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The high altitude and sun can be intense. Stay hydrated on the trails!
☀️ Sun Protection is Essential
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Trails have limited shade.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails are well-maintained but can be uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Before 8 AM
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends! Get there early to snag a spot and beat the crowds.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The high altitude and sun can be intense. Stay hydrated on the trails!
☀️ Sun Protection is Essential
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Trails have limited shade.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails are well-maintained but can be uneven. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended.
📸 Bring Your Camera
The dramatic red rock formations and scenic views are incredibly photogenic.
🐾 Leash Your Pets
Dogs are not allowed in Roxborough State Park to protect wildlife and fragile ecosystems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Roxborough State Park for its absolutely breathtaking scenery and unique red rock formations, describing it as a 'scene straight out of a painting.' The well-maintained, easy-to-walk trails are a major highlight, making it perfect for a peaceful day in nature. Many appreciate the opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy the stunning views without overwhelming crowds, especially when visiting during off-peak times. +1
"Our first visit to this state park. Visiting from out of state. Decided that we love to hike and wanted to see what this state has. It's a beautiful park. Has many trails and places to walk. You definitely want to be prepared. Water is essential. Didn't see much wildlife but I know when we were hiking it was a bit warm. Visitor Center was nice. The team of workers are very thoughtful and friendly. Last note. If you are walking to the visitor center. Look at the path on the left. It's a small road. But easier to walk if you have mobility issues."
Robert Herrera
"Absolutely breathtaking atmosphere. There's several hiking trails that go through the park, I did a few of them & none of them were too difficult. There's a really nice shaded Pavillion where you can sit & enjoy the view/have lunch. It wasn't too crowded when I came either. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, I saw several turkeys & their babies, deer & hummingbirds are active this summer. Tons of pretty wildflowers too. Make sure you bring lots of water & sunscreen, there's not too much shade on the trails."
holly marie
"Roxborough State Park is absolutely amazing. The trails are super clean and well maintained, and I found them really easy to walk, perfect for a peaceful day out in nature. It wasn’t too busy when I went, which made the experience even better. The scenery is stunning, those red rock formations are just beautiful. Whether you’re hiking or just looking to relax in a quiet, natural setting, this place is a hidden gem."
Raff Anthony
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roxborough State Park is conveniently located about 30-45 minutes south of Denver, making it an easy day trip.
Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach Roxborough State Park. There is a visitor center with parking available.
Currently, there are no direct public transportation options to Roxborough State Park. A personal vehicle is necessary.
Park hours can vary slightly by season and day. It's best to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date information. Some visitors have noted inconsistencies in opening times.
Yes, there is parking available at the visitor center and trailheads. However, it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Roxborough State Park is typically $10 per vehicle. An annual Colorado State Parks pass can also be used.
Advance ticket booking is generally not required for Roxborough State Park. However, due to its popularity, arriving early is crucial to ensure entry before parking lots are full.
Yes, if you have an annual Colorado State Parks pass, it is valid for entry into Roxborough State Park.
If the park reaches capacity, you may have to wait for a car to leave before you can enter, or you may be turned away. This is why arriving early is so important.
The primary fee is the per-vehicle entrance fee. Most hiking trails are accessible with this entry.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Fountain Valley Trail (2.3 miles, easy), Willow Creek Trail (1.4 miles, easy), and the South Rim Loop Trail (2.9 miles, moderate). For a longer challenge, consider the Carpenter Peak Trail (6.4 miles, moderate).
Yes, Roxborough State Park offers several kid-friendly hikes like the Lyons Overlook and parts of the Fountain Valley Trail. The relatively short and easy trails make it enjoyable for younger visitors.
Absolutely! Visitors frequently report seeing wild turkeys, deer, and various birds. Keep your eyes peeled, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center and at some trailhead areas. It's always a good idea to use them when you see them.
Some trails, like parts of the Fountain Valley Trail, might be manageable with a rugged stroller, but many are not. The Willow Creek Trail is specifically noted as not stroller-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic red rock formations themselves are the main attraction. Trails like Fountain Valley and South Rim Loop offer numerous vantage points for capturing the unique geology and expansive views.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones that highlight the red rocks. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
Drones are generally not permitted in Colorado State Parks, including Roxborough, to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Never feed or disturb wildlife for a photo opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as shade can be limited. The visitor center can also be an engaging stop for younger visitors. Keep an eye out for wildlife like turkeys and deer, which can add an extra layer of excitement to the outing.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Nature Lovers
+2You can spend hours simply enjoying the natural beauty, taking photos, and observing the local flora and fauna. The park's well-maintained paths make for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, allowing you to truly soak in the serene atmosphere.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting that accentuates the textures and colors of the rocks. Trails like the Fountain Valley and South Rim Loop offer numerous vantage points. Don't forget to capture the contrast between the red rocks, green vegetation, and the vast Colorado sky.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Roxborough's Iconic Red Rocks
+1Several trails provide excellent opportunities to get up close with these formations. The Fountain Valley Trail is a popular choice, offering a relatively easy 2.3-mile loop that winds through some of the most scenic areas, showcasing the grandeur of the red rocks. For those seeking a shorter experience, the Willow Creek Trail is a 1.4-mile loop that also immerses you in the unique geological features.
+1When exploring these formations, remember to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure your own safety. The contrast between the vibrant red rocks and the surrounding green foothills and blue sky is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Hiking Trails for Every Level
For a leisurely walk, the Fountain Valley Trail (2.3 miles, easy) and Willow Creek Trail (1.4 miles, easy) are highly recommended. These trails are perfect for families and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. The South Rim Loop Trail offers a slightly longer and more varied hike at 2.9 miles.
+3More adventurous hikers can tackle the Carpenter Peak Trail, a 6.4-mile moderate hike that rewards with expansive views. Regardless of the trail chosen, always be prepared with water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear, as conditions can change.
Wildlife Encounters in the Park
Commonly spotted animals include wild turkeys, often seen with their young, and deer. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to observe, with various species frequenting the park. Hummingbirds are particularly active during the summer months.
+1To increase your chances of spotting wildlife, plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon, as animals tend to be more active during these cooler parts of the day. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals to ensure their well-being and preserve the natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit