🌤 Weather at Roxborough State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26–68 °F | 50–85 °F | 26–76 °F | 18–46 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Roxborough State Park, 0 mi away, elevation 6,117 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Roxborough State Park is a state park in Colorado located in Roxborough, and is about 26 miles southwest from the city of Denver. The park offers biking, birding, hiking, and wildlife viewing with scenic views of Carpenter Peak.
Activities
There are a plethora of activities available to Roxborough State Park visitors. Here are just a few of the many activities at Roxborough park:
Birding At Roxborough State Park
The Audubon Society has designated Roxborough State Park an Important Bird Area (IBA). What that means is this area is an incredible stop for anyone looking to catch sight of rare birds. Not only are there plenty of opportunities to spot local and migratory species throughout the park, but Roxborough also offers naturalist-guided hikes for all skill levels, allowing you to see hard-to-find birds in their natural habitat.
Hiking At Roxborough State Park
Roxborough State Park is home to 9 hiking trails totaling about 14 miles in length. Not only does this provide plenty of hiking opportunities for all skill levels, but the park also connects to other external trail systems, including Pike National Forest Trails, Waterton Canyon, Douglas County Open Space Trails, and more. Here are some of the trails at Roxborough State Park:
- Fountail Valley Trail – This trail leads from the Visitor Center into a 2.5-mile loop that takes hikers past the Fountain and Lyons rock foundation. While the trail is not entirely ADA-accessible, most wheelchairs can use the trail as long as the weather conditions permit. Length: 2.5 mile Degree of Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Willow Creek Trail – This trail is a single-track hike that goes from the Visitor Center to the parking lot. Hikers can appreciate the various scrub oak trees that dot the area, as well as appreciate local wildflowers and birds. Length: 1.5 miles Degree of Difficulty: moderate
- Carpenter Peak Trail – This single-track trail leads to Carpenter Peak, which is the highest peak in the park and offers incredible views. Keep in mind that the length of this hike includes the return trip, and the overall elevation gain is an incredible 1,000 feet. Length: 6.5 miles Degree of Difficulty: challenging
Hosting Events At Roxborough State Park
Roxborough State Park has both an amphitheater and two overlooks available for rent for large events, like family gatherings, business trips, and even weddings. The amphitheater can support 39 individuals and includes a large screen for presentations. For more information check out the Roxborough State Park website.
Pets At Roxborough State Park
Pets are not allowed within the park.
Camping At Roxborough State Park
While there is no camping at Roxborough State Park, the surrounding areas do have plenty of camping locations, including along the Colorado Trail at Lenny’s Rest in the National Forest. Check out surrounding areas and campsite locations to find a good campsite within the driving range of this incredible park.
Park Location
Roxborough State Park 4751 East Roxborough Drive Roxborough CO 80125 Phone: 303.973.3959 Website Reservations
Map
Video
Here is a brief video highlighting various activities at Roxborough State Park:
Red Rock Formations Without the Crowds
Roxborough showcases tilted red sandstone slabs similar to Garden of the Gods, but quieter. A Colorado Natural Area with no bikes, dogs, or camping—pure natural beauty.
Rules
- No dogs (even in cars)
- No bikes allowed
- No camping – day use only
- Stay on trails – fragile ecosystem
Trails
| Trail | Length | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Fountain Valley | 2.3 mi | Easy |
| Lyons Overlook | 0.8 mi | Moderate |
| South Rim | 3 mi | Moderate |
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed anywhere in Roxborough—not even in vehicles. This protects the fragile ecosystem and wildlife.
Explore More Colorado State Parks
Roxborough State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Colorado. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Colorado guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Insider Tips
Red rock formations: Roxborough features dramatic 300-foot red sandstone formations — the same geological layer as Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Garden of the Gods. Pro tip: No bikes or dogs allowed — this preserves the park’s peaceful wildlife habitat. Wildlife: Mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions inhabit the park.
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Wildflowers among the red rocks. Fall: Scrub oak colors contrast with red sandstone. Summer: Early morning hikes before heat. Winter: Dramatic red rocks against snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I bring my dog to Roxborough?
Roxborough State Park prohibits dogs to protect its sensitive wildlife habitat. The park supports bears, mountain lions, deer, and diverse bird populations in a natural setting near Denver. The no-pet policy helps maintain this as a true wildlife sanctuary.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Chatfield State Park is a short drive away, and Castlewood Canyon State Park is within about an hour’s drive.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Roxborough State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs are welcome at Colorado state parks and most trails and campgrounds when kept on a leash, though some trails restrict dogs.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not exceeding 6 feet required at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- It is unlawful to allow a dog or other pet within any area used as a swimming or water-ski beach.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Some parks offer pet-friendly cabins and yurts (e.g. Golden Gate Canyon, State Forest, Mancos and Ridgway yurts) for a $10 per night pet fee.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $10 per night pet fee in participating pet-friendly cabins/yurts.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Designated off-leash dog areas at Chatfield and Cherry Creek State Parks (registration/fee applies).
Are dogs allowed at Roxborough State Park?
Dogs are welcome at Colorado state parks and most trails and campgrounds when kept on a leash, though some trails restrict dogs. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via cpw.state.co.us. More: Colorado state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Roxborough State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
