Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a natural wonder owned by the City of Denver, beckons visitors to experience its unique energy from one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset. Simply being surrounded by the towering red rocks is enough to invigorate you, but for those seeking a more active adventure, a variety of trails await. Consider exploring the Trading Post Trail or the Red Rocks Trail for hiking, mountain biking, or even horseback riding. Both paths wind through the park’s stunning geological formations, offering breathtaking views alongside trees, wildflowers, and local wildlife. To truly maximize your experience, join Red Rocks Hikes for a guided sunrise hike, a 70-minute journey culminating in a delicious packed lunch and coffee, setting you up perfectly for further exploration of red rocks at your own pace. For a true test of endurance, challenge yourself like the local fitness enthusiasts who run the amphitheater’s stone steps – a guaranteed thigh-burning workout. Alternatively, find your inner peace with Yoga on the Rocks, held at this inspiring venue, and enjoy a downward dog pose with an unparalleled view.
Delve deeper into the captivating history of red rocks, where the colossal sandstone outcrops forming the Red Rocks Amphitheatre walls rise higher than Niagara Falls. These formations are part of the Fountain Formation, laid down approximately 280 million years ago. Long before legendary bands graced the stage, Red Rocks’ journey as a music venue began in the early 1900s thanks to the visionary John Brisben Walker. He established a makeshift stage nestled among the rocks, and after a renowned opera singer declared the acoustics “perfect,” Red Rocks cemented its place as a revered destination for musicians. To uncover more about the rich human and geological history of red rocks, visit the Visitor Center. Here, you’ll find engaging educational exhibits, an informative short documentary, and the Performers’ Hall of Fame, celebrating the iconic artists who have performed in this breathtaking setting.