Colorado's Top State Parks For a Day of Adventure

Known for its scenic mountain ranges, winter recreation, and amazing local wildlife, it comes as no surprise that Colorado has some of the best state parks around. Whether you’re looking for wild adventures filled with rock climbing and back-country camping or are simply looking for a clean, fun place to swim in the summer–these state parks have everything you need and more. 

Iconic destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park and Cherry Creek State Park provide vast hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and serene lakes for fishing. Whether you're seeking adrenaline or relaxation, Colorado’s state parks deliver a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Pack your gear and discover the best of Colorado’s wilderness.

Eldorado Canyon State Park

Surrounded by towering red sandstone and the rushing waters of South Boulder Creek, Eldorado Canyon State Park is widely considered one of the best rock climbing destinations in the country. The park sits roughly 8 miles outside of Boulder, in Eldorado Springs, Colorado, and spans 1,392 acres. During a visit here, you will find a wide range of activities to enjoy including over 500 “technical climbing routes.” Among those rock climbing routes, you will find a range of sandstone cliffs some of which reach an impressive 700 feet high.

In addition to rock climbing, this state park is an ideal location for a range of other activities including fishing, mountain biking, and hiking. The park is especially fun to visit in the winter when skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are available. Hiking enthusiasts will have plenty of trails to choose from here including the popular Rattlesnake Gulch Trail. Surrounded by natural beauty, this trail also showcases "ruins of an old hotel that burned down during an era when Eldorado Springs was known as the 'Coney Island of the West,'" according to the state park website. 

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Tucked within the Front Range mountains, just outside of Golden, Colorado, travelers will find Golden Gate Canyon State Park. The park spans just over 12,000 acres and features meadows, streams, forests, and beautiful mountain peaks. A popular destination for summer camping–the park also features over 35 miles of hiking trails and 125 cute and cozy picnic areas for day-trippers. Camping options range from comfortable cabins and yurts to drive-in and backcountry tent camping sites.

When searching for things to do at Golden Gate Canyon State Park, you will find yourself spoiled for choice. Activities include everything from hunting and fishing to rock climbing and horseback riding. Like Eldorado Canyon, Golden Gate Canyon State Park also offers unbelievable views of the Continental Divide. To enjoy said views, hike or drive to the park’s Panorama Point Scenic Overlook. The park also offers some of the best fall foliage. Those visiting around the beginning of October will want to hike the Mule Deer Trail where vibrant yellow aspen trees are on full display.

Cherry Creek State Park

Described as a “4,200-acre recreation haven,” Cherry Creek State Park is a true gem hidden within the Denver metro area. In the center of the park, visitors will find a beautiful man-made lake with a surface area spanning 880 acres. The reservoir, known as the Cherry Creek Reservoir is perfect for activities such as boating, paddling, fishing, and water skiing.

Summer in Cherry Creek State Park is incredible with the warm Colorado sun beating down. These warmer months offer a massive range of activities including model airplane flying, hiking, camping, rowing, sailboarding, sailing, jet skiing, swimming, and volleyball just to name a few. That said, the crowds and long lines to get in can cause some frustration for summer visitors. To avoid the crowds, try visiting in the winter when activities including sledding, snow tubing, and snowshoeing are all on offer. Another attractive feature of this park is the off-leash dog area where you and your furry friend can run and play.

Chatfield State Park

Nestled along the shores of the Chatfield Reservoir lies the scenic Chatfield State Park. Although the park offers several enticing amenities and activities, the biggest draw here is the 1,500 surface-acre Reservoir. The sparkling manmade lake is an ideal playground for activities such as canoeing, fishing, boating, swimming, waterskiing, and sailing. There is also a marina, boat rentals, and an impressive floating restaurant on the water for visitors to enjoy. In the winter months, the reservoir is a popular spot for ice fishing.

In addition to the water-based activities, Chatfield State Park is also a great place for hiking as it features 26 miles worth of trails. Along the trails, you can expect to see a hearty variety of birds and wildlife including different species of owls and woodpeckers. Although fun in any season, it’s best to visit Chatfield State Park in the warmer months when hot air balloon rides are readily available via third-party vendors that are approved by the park. 

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is a 3,339-acre National Natural Landmark with plenty of things to see and do within its borders. During a visit here you will see impressive sandstone rock formations, fields of wildflowers, and local wildlife including bears, elk, cottontail rabbits, and mule deer. With all these picturesque natural backdrops, it’s hard to believe this park is less than an hour away from downtown Denver.

One of the biggest draws to Roxborough State Park is the remnants of Archaic and Woodland cultures that can be found throughout. In total, an estimated 200+ artifacts have been discovered here and many of them are on display at the park’s Visitors Center. Other worthwhile activities offered here include hiking, picnicking, and birding. Winter is also a wonderful time to visit the park if activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing appeal to you.

In Conclusion

Between unique rock formations, popular mountain ranges, floating restaurants, and ancient artifacts, Colorado’s best state parks all offer something unique. But they also each share some vital similarities–no matter which state park you choose for your next adventure, you can rest easy knowing the area will be clean and bursting at the seams with natural beauty. So whether you’re a hiker looking to lace up your boots and hit the trails, or a thrill-seeking rock climber ready to tackle the towering red sandstone cliffs, Colorado has you covered.