Roxborough State Park: An Immersion Into A Geologic Wonderland

Roxborough State Park

     As I take another bite of crispy fried chicken, I cannot get over the absolute beauty of this place.  I am surrounded by the most incredible and dramatic rock formations I have ever seen.  From the jagged red rocks protruding from the ground at the most bizzarest of angles to the bright yellow and rich purple wildflowers in bloom, Roxborough State Park is truly breath taking and one heck of a place for a good old fashion picnic.

     This patch of majestic beauty, is less than 45 minutes southwest of Downtown Denver, but it feels so much further away.  As you enter the park, you are immediately struck by it's insationable beauty.  The place is simply incredible!  The park is endowed with several great trails, which vary in skill level as well as terrain.  Most people come to this park for The Fountain Valley Trail.  This is the most scenic path which allows you the opportunity to meander through a menagerie of limestone cliffs and monoliths.  These crimson rock formations are simply amazing!  Each stone has it's own character and charm, since they have all eroded in very unique ways.  This 2.2 mile trail is ideal for children and the less active, since the valley is relatively flat and full of benches for rest.  At the far end of the valley lies The Persse Place, an early 20th century home that was once owned by Henry Persse.  He originally owned all of this land, but eventually donated it to the City and County of Denver.  It is quaint, with the hand made brick exterior and a Victorian style interior.  Tours are rare, but can be arranged with the park service.   If you want a more challenging climb, then try The Lyons Lookout.  This switchback takes you to the most picturesque of views.  Here you can get a birds eye view of the whole valley as well as give you the opportunity to  embrace your inner Art Wolfe.  The photo opportunities here are endless, and it makes for a wonderful place to have a picnic.   For those hiking enthusiast, try The Carpenter Peak Trail.  This roughed eight mile path leads you to the summit of Carpenter Peak and some incredible views of the front range.

     Now if you are a wildlife enthusiast, Roxborough State Park can be a great place to see animals in their natural environments.  Over the years, I have seen red foxes, white tailed deer, great horned owls, and hawks, but other lucky visitors have encountered, rattle snakes, golden eagles, mountain lions, elk, and even black bears.  If you arrive early or late in the day, you might be fortunate enough to witness these North American icons for yourself.

     So if you are in the Denver Metro Area, and would like to see one of Americas best kept secrets, then head to Roxborough State Park and be prepared to be amazed!

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