The best way to experience Golden Gate Canyon State Park is to get out there and explore on foot. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, and enjoy views across Colorado's forests and mountains before heading back to one of many nearby Golden Gate Canyon State Park hotels.
Starting from the Golden Gate Canyon State Park Visitor Center, this 3mi. circular hiking trail has great views of nearby Treamont Mountain, as you hike your way through the park's picturesque aspen forests.
Follow the Burro Trail to the stunning 12,000ft. Windy Peak. You can continue on the trail without climbing the mountain, or follow the path up the slope and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.
Suitable for hikers, mountain bikers, and horses, the 2.5mi. Racoon Trail takes you through dense forest, an area which is particularly colorful in the fall. Make sure you take the slight detour to Panorama Point which, as the name suggests, has a great view of the Continental Divide.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park hotels are ideal for family vacations. Enjoy the variety of outdoor activities which are offered in this popular area of Colorado.
While some of the hiking trails may be a little difficult for younger children, the guided nature trails that start at the Visitor Center are perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities. The interpretive signs along the way give you lots of information about the plants, birds, and animals that you can see in the area.
Spring and summer are great times of year to try your luck at catching your own fish for dinner at Golden Gate Canyon State Park cabins. Fishing is permitted anywhere in the park, except the pond at the visitor center.
In the winter months, this area of Colorado can experience heavy snow, and the hiking trails become ideal for either cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. These are fun activities for the whole family, especially if you live in an area where the kids don't get to experiece snow very often!
