2.4 miles
Distance
240 ft
Elevation Gain
loop
Route Type
low
Crowd Level
Difficulty Rating
EasySuitable for beginners and families. Well-maintained trail with minimal elevation change.
Is Roxborough State Park Loop right for you?
Roxborough State Park Loop suits beginners, families, and anyone who wants to enjoy Colorado's scenery without a punishing climb. At 2.4 miles with 240 ft of gain, it's approachable and rewarding. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
About Roxborough State Park Loop — Colorado Hiking Trail Guide
Just 30 miles southwest of Denver, Roxborough State Park is a geological and ecological treasure that many Front Range residents haven't yet discovered. The park's signature feature is a dramatic series of red Fountain Formation sandstone fins — some reaching 200 feet high — that jut dramatically from the earth. The Fountain Valley Loop offers an easy, beginner-friendly introduction to this striking landscape.
The loop winds between the towering fins through a mix of scrub oak, Gambel oak, and prickly pear cactus meadows. In spring, the wildflower display along the trail is impressive for a low-elevation hike. Wildlife sightings are common year-round: mule deer, wild turkeys, golden eagles, and even occasional black bears have been documented in the park.
This is one of the best all-season hikes near Denver. The trail stays manageable even in winter conditions when most mountain trails are buried in snow. The rock formations look especially dramatic in the warm light of sunrise or sunset.
Best Seasons to Hike
What to Bring
- Sunscreen
- Water (1 liter is plenty)
- Camera
- Light layers in shoulder seasons
Roxborough State Park Loop Trail Tips & Insider Advice
The park charges a $9 vehicle admission fee. Dogs are not permitted anywhere in the park. For stunning photography, visit at golden hour. The Willow Creek Trail adds another mile with great views back toward the fins.
