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Colorado State Parks
Parks > Castlewood Canyon State Park > Activities

Park Activities

Biking

Biking is not allowed on the trails at Castlewood.
(Updated: 4/1/2016 4:56 PM)

Birding

Castlewood Canyon is home to one of the largest turkey vulture populations in the state during the summer months. In the winter, the vultures prefer to spend their time in warmer climates, such as those of Mexico and Central America. Bluebirds and canyon wrens also call the park home.
(Updated: 10/2/2019 4:01 PM)

Dog-friendly

Dogs are welcome in the park as long as:

  • they are on a six-foot or shorter leash at all times
  • their waste is properly disposed of

Dogs are not allowed on the East Canyon Preservation Trail. (Updated: 8/4/2016 2:07 PM)

Education Programs

Programs are available throughout the year. Details for public programs and hikes are posted at various locations in the park and on our calendar page. Programs for school groups must be scheduled at least one month in advance with the park naturalist. Call (303) 688-5242 for details.
(Updated: 4/1/2016 4:58 PM)

Hiking

Castlewood Canyon offers hiking trails for every skill level. Paved trails give all ages access to magnificent views of the canyon, while more difficult trails take you down to Cherry Creek and along the canyon floor.
(Updated: 10/2/2019 4:03 PM)

Horseback Riding

There is one mile of trail accessible to horseback riders at Castlewood Canyon. The Cherry Creek Trail connecting Cherry Creek State Park and Castlewood Canyon State Park may be completed in the future.
(Updated: 10/2/2019 4:07 PM)

Photography

With our unique rock formations and abundance of wildlife, Castlewood Canyon is a great park for photographers! If you are a professional photographer and plan on shooting at Castlewood Canyon, you need to contact the park office at (303) 688-5242.
(Updated: 10/2/2019 4:09 PM)

Picnicking

Individual or group picnic areas are available at the park. Group picnic areas are available by reservation only. 30+ family picnic sites are available throughout the park on a first-come, first-served basis. Call (303) 688-5242 to reserve a group picnic area.
(Updated: 10/2/2019 4:11 PM)

Rock Climbing

Walls up to 60 feet and canyon face climbing are available for all skill levels. A detailed climbing guide is for sale at the Visitor Center for $20.00.

ATTENTION COMMERCIAL CLIMBING GROUPS: please contact the park office to register.

Please be aware of seasonal closures. Closures are in place to encourage raptor nesting on cliff walls.

  • Shakespearean Theater – restricted March, April, May
  • Mind Meld – restricted March, April, May
  • Porky’s Wall – restricted March, April, May
  • June Vulture Wall – restricted March, April, May, June, July
  • Morning Sun Wall – restricted March, April, May, June, July

(Updated: 7/1/2024 1:30 PM)

Wildlife Viewing

Many animals call Castlewood Canyon home, from black bears and bobcats, to deer and elk. For the safety of both pets and wildlife, please keep dogs on a leash. Be cautious of rattlesnakes along the trails.
(Updated: 10/2/2019 4:17 PM)