Roxborough State Park Review

Colorado has countless unique geological formations and Roxborough State Park offers some of the most dramatic. Throughout the park red sandstone formation are found jutting out of the ground and stand in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape. And the best part is that these formations are easy to see, as there are walking trails amongst the formations.

What to see

The Roxborough sandstone formations are mostly found in the north end of the park along the 2.2 mile Fountain Valley Trail. I suggest taking this loop trail's east side first, which cuts through an open meadow. From here there is access to two overlook trails (moderate in difficulty) which afford a dramatic view of the sandstone formations.

As you loop around to the west side of the Fountain Valley Trail, the landscape is lush, and the dramatic formations stand in full view. Most are red, but the colors of the rock formations varies from sand to a dark brown. Don't forget your camera! From the gently twisting trail you will see one unique rock formation after another, with a green meadow and wide variety of plant life.

The only wildlife I saw were birds and a mouse, but the park is home to deer, bear, cougars, and bobcats. A photographic album in the Visitors Center has picture of all the flora and fauna found in the park. There is also a small souvenir shop and several park employees on hand to answer questions.

Other things to do

Roxborough State Park covers more than 3,300 acres and boasts of nearly 15 miles of hiking trails, including a strenuous hike to the top of Carpenter Peak (elevation 7,160 feet). Some of the trails connect to trails going into nearby Pike National Forest as well.

While this park is outstanding for hiking, scenery viewing, and relaxing in the beautiful outdoors, it has no facilities for other activities. There is no camping, no biking, no rock climbing, no picnic area, and no refreshments besides a soda machine. If you are visiting during the day be sure to bring a lunch and plenty to drink, or you'll have to travel several miles into town for refreshments.

Visitor's Information

Roxborough State Park is about 28 miles southwest of Denver right along the Front Range. Cost is $6 per vehicle and I should mention that when first entering the park the roadway is gravel and the scenery is unimpressive. However, about 1 mile into the park the road becomes paved and the dramatic rock formations come into view. Parking is found just south of the Visitors Center.

If you like viewing dramatic scenery Roxborough State Park would be a great place to visit while in Colorado. While only a limited number of activities are permitted in this park, you will have plenty to do just hiking and observing the beautiful scenery found throughout the park.

Roxborough State Park

4751 Roxborough Dr., Littleton, CO 80125

http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/roxborough