Hikes with Red Rock Formations Near Denver

The Front Range of Colorado has rock known as the Fountain Formation that begins 14,000 feet underground, then works its way to the surface at angle. A lot of it is hidden beneath dirt and rock, but when it gets exposed above ground, it creates incredible monuments of red sandstone. There are hiking trails that begin as far north as Fort Collins, and run all the way down south of Colorado Springs that wind through these strange rock features. We are trying to profile as many of these Red Rock hikes as can, starting with the ones closest to Denver. Explore the hiking trail profiles below, and come back to check out more trails as we add them.

Carpenter Peak Hike in Roxborough State Park

The hike up Carpenter Peak in Roxborough State Park is a strenuous 3.1 mile journey (one-way) to a foothill summit that overlooks the red rock formations of Fountain Valley. You'll also gain 360 degree panoramic views of Denver, east to the plains, and west to distant snow-capped peaks. In this Colorado trail profile, you'll find driving directions, trail map, and ...
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Elk Valley Trail in Roxborough State Park

The Elk Valley Trail in Roxborough State Park climbs to a lesser visited valley in the park. Incredible views of the red rock formations of Roxborough make this a great moderate hike near Denver. The hike to Elk Valley is a 4.8 mile out-and-back journey, but can be turned into one of two more strenuous loop hikes. Explore all the ...
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Fountain Valley Trail at Roxborough State Park

The Fountain Valley trail in Colorado's Roxborough State Park is the Garden of the God's of Denver. It's more secluded than Red Rocks park, and features several trails that take you beyond the park boundaries and into the foothills. The Fountain Valley Trail is a perfect place to start because it features the best part of the park, it's towering ...
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Red Rocks Trail at Red Rocks Park

The Red Rocks Trail at Red Rocks park gives you a chance to wander through the meadows just east of the imposing red monoliths that this Denver Mountain Park is named after. Close to Denver, the Red Rocks Trail is great for a sunrise hike, an inspiring trail run or a challenging bike ride. There's more: a cave carved into ...
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Red Rocks Trail at Settlers Park in Boulder

Agiant underground sandstone formation runs from Ft. Collins all the way through Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Here at Red Rocks Trail in Boulder, the rock juts out of the ground to transform the landscape. It makes for an inspiring short hike. Explore the hike snapshot and detailed trail profile below to get a feel for this great ...
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Roxborough State Park Hiking Trails

5 Hikes in Roxborough State Park Roxborough State Park is widely considered Denver's Garden of the Gods. Secluded in the foothills south of Littleton, Colorado, Roxborough State Park can feel like stepping into another world, especially when a light fog rest on the tops of the red rocks of Fountain Valley. Roxborough State Park is home to a variety of ...
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South Rim Loop Trail at Roxborough State Park

The South Rim Trail at Roxborough State Park is a moderate loop hike that leads to breathtaking views of the red rock formations that make this Colorado State Park famous. It's a perfect hike for a weekend afternoon, or a great choice for visiting family and friends. We also put this on our list for great hikes to take if ...
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South Valley Park Trails

The trails of South Valley Park are perfect for an after work hike or run in South Denver. The expansive valley near the neighborhood of Ken Caryl is enclosed on its eastern side by the exposed red rock formations of the hogback and the green foothills to the west. Views to the south are incredible, making South Valley Park especially ...
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Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks Park

Ready for a hike around Colorado's Red Rocks Park and famous amphitheater? The Trading Post trail at Red Rocks takes you around 10 of the parks giant red rock formations. It's a short loop hike near Denver, accessible off of 470. Check out our full hiking trail profile below for all the details. Trail Snapshot: Trading Post Loop Trail Hike ...
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Ultimate Guide to Hiking Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is argueabley the best place to hike in Colorado Springs. Designated a National Natural Landmark, the park is known for its towering red sandstone formations and panoramic views of Pikes Peak. Hiking, Horseback riding, mountain biking, birding, and climbing are among the activities that can be enjoyed here. This guide to the Garden of the Gods ...
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Willow Creek Trail at Roxborough State Park

Entering Roxborough State Park is like walking into another world. The red rock and wildlife--and if you are lucky--the low lying cloud cover, conspire to make for a great escape just south of Denver. This short hike in Roxborough is a perfect way to begin exploring the park. Scroll down to get all the information you need for this trail: ...
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