Copyright: Colorado State Parks Roxborough State Park

Description - Roxborough State Park is a spectacular red-rock area known for its tranquil setting and wildlife viewing opportunities. Roxborough is one of the most dramatic and beautiful parks in the state. More than 1.2 billion years of geologic time are represented by the spectacular rock formations found within the park, which is located southwest of Denver. Ecologically, the park is highly diverse as a result of its location in a transition zone between the plains and the mountains. The area's geological structure has resulted in microclimates that have produced seven distinct plant communities in a unique mixture of prairie and mountain species. As a result, Roxborough is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lion and elk.

Attractions - The dramatic red-rock formations and the resulting ecosystem at Roxborough State Park are so distinct, it is the only state park designated by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a National Natural Landmark. It was Colorado's first state park to be designated as a State Natural Area, and it is a National Archeological District. The park is known for its spectacular sightseeing, tranquil surroundings, fascinating trails and wonderful Visitor Center.

Recreation - Roxborough State Park has 14.3 miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails. The park offers excellent educational programs on Colorado history, geology and wildlife watching. Mountain biking and horseback riding are not permitted within the park boundaries.

Climate - The climate in Roxborough State Park is similar to that of any mountainous area. Weather changes frequently and sometimes dramatically. Winter precipitation usually comes in the form of snow. Spring and Fall precipitation can vary hourly. Light snow and rain are common occurrences. Usually a storm will cover the area, release precipitation and quickly move east on to the plains. Sunny days are the norm throughout the region.

Temperatures can vary severely during one day. Summer temperatures range from 85 degrees during the day to 40 degrees at night. Winter temperatures range from 45 degrees during the day to negative 20 degrees at night.

The best preparation for rapidly changing Rocky Mountain weather is layered clothing. Hats and gloves are a good idea in all seasons, especially if you are camping. Never leave home without some sunscreen. The sun at high elevations can be brutal.

Location - Roxborough State Park is located southwest of the Denver metropolitan area and west of Sedalia. The state park land lies immediately east of the Pike National Forest boundary. The area reflects the meeting of the high plains and the Rocky Mountains.

Directions - From Wadsworth: Take Wadsworth south past Chatfield State Park. Turn left on Waterton Road (just before the entrance to Lockheed Martin.) Continue on Waterton Road—crossing the South Platte River, until it ends at North Rampart Range Road (1.6 miles) Turn right (south) on North Rampart Range Road. Continue south past Roxborough Village and the Foothills Water Treatment Plant. (2.3 miles) At the intersection of North Rampart Range Road and Roxborough Park Road (just before the entrance to Arrowhead golf course), turn left onto Roxborough Park Road. Take the next right (about 50 yards away) to enter the park.

From Santa Fe: Head south on Santa Fe (Highway 85) to Titan Road. (4.2 miles south of C-470 intersection) Turn right (west) on Titan Road. Continue heading west on Titan Road. It will curve and begin to head south—becoming North Rampart Range Road (3 miles). Continue south on North Rampart Range Road past Roxborough Village and the Foothills Water Treatment Plant (3.5 miles). At the intersection of North Rampart Range Road and Roxborough Park Road, turn left onto Roxborough Park Road. Take the next right (about 50 yards away) to enter the park.

LAT: 39.4437496297
LONG: -105.072383881