Introduction

Located just east of Denver, Castlewood Canyon State Park is a geological wonderland that reveals the extraordinary stories written in stone, offering visitors a profound connection to Colorado's natural history and breathtaking landscapes.

Background

Castlewood Canyon State Park offers a mesmerizing landscape of dramatic rock formations, deep canyon walls, and diverse ecosystems. Hikers can explore multiple trails that wind through unique geological formations, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The park provides exceptional opportunities for rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the diverse plant and animal life of the Colorado Piedmont. Visitors can discover hidden waterfalls, explore ancient rock formations, and experience the raw beauty of Colorado's natural landscape.

History

The Castlewood Canyon State Park preserves a unique geological landscape that tells a dramatic story of Colorado's natural history. Formed by volcanic and erosional processes over millions of years, the canyon represents a critical window into the geological transformation of the Colorado Piedmont region. The park's dramatic rock formations are the result of volcanic ash deposits from ancient eruptions, later carved by water and wind into the stunning landscape visitors see today.

Native American tribes, including the Ute and Arapaho, historically traversed and used this region, leaving behind archaeological evidence of their presence. The area became particularly significant during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when settlers began to explore and develop the region. The dramatic 1933 dam failure of the Cherry Creek Dam, which originated in this canyon, became a pivotal moment in Colorado's water management history, dramatically illustrating the power of natural forces.

Address: 2989 CO-83, Franktown, CO 80116Get Directions

Total Trail Length: 5.5 miles

Fees: $10 park entry

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Phone: (303) 688-5242

More Info: Colorado State Parks