State Parks and Pike National Forest

Colorado State Parks

Additional established trails in Colorado.  Entrance passes for vehicles required.

Castlewood Canyon State Park

The park occupies a secluded area about six miles east/southeast of Castle Rock, near the junction of Colorado 83 and Colorado 86 at Franktown. The main entrance is five miles south of Franktown on Colorado 83. Situated in a picturesque canyon, and home to the ruins of historic Castlewood Canyon Dam, the park features a new visitor's center, picnic areas, wildlife walks, and 13 miles of hiking trails. A large group picnic facility can be reserved. Environmental educational programs are offered, along with exhibits explaining the dam, area ecosystems and the Black Forest. The park has excellent access for the disabled. There is limited acces for bicycles, and no access for horses on hiking trails. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Directions - Take Colorado Highway 83 south approximately 5 miles past the intersection with Colorado Highway 86. The entrance is on the right (west).

Chatfield State Park

On the South Platte River in northwestern Douglas County, this water-based recreation area encompasses 5,600 acres of land and a large reservoir. Recreational opportunities include power boating, sailing, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, picnicking, horseback riding, overnight camping, a model airplane field, a wildlife pavilion and a newly created 20 acre wetland and handicap fishing area. There is an 18 mile multi-use trail system that winds through the park. Most facilities are handicapped-accessible. Additional soft-surface trails are located throughout the park.

Directions - North access take C470 west to Wadsworth, south on Wadsworth approximately 1 mile to State Park Entrance. South access take Santa Fe Blvd south to Titan Road, then north on Roxborough Park Road..

Roxborough State Park

The park features plant and animal life so diverse it has been declared a national natural landmark and archaeological district; consequently, pets, horses, and mountain bikes are not allowed. The park protects a series of sandstone ridges, the spectacular Fountain Formation, the Lyons Formation, and the Dakota Hogback in an area unique for its geology and mixture of plains and mountain habitat. The park has a 12 mile trail system. A visitor's center is open year-round and outdoor educational programs are available.

Directions - The park is located southwest of Chatfield State Park at the edge of Rampart Range. From Denver, take U.S. 85 (Santa Fe Drive) south to Titan Road, turn right and go 3.5 miles. Follow Titan Road left for 3.0 miles. Turn left into the park entrance.

Pike National Forest

Pike National Forest is accessible by Colorado 67 west of Sedalia in Rampart Range. Camping, fishing, backpacking, and limited hunting are available. The Rampart Range area provides miles of trails for motorized recreational use. The Indian Creek Trailhead is a gateway to numerous horseback and hiking trails. Permits are required for certain activities. For information call (303) 275-5610.