Red Rocks Park, a stunning Denver Mountain Park, offers a variety of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled approximately 6,280 feet above sea level, these trails invite hikers and bikers to explore breathtaking geological formations and scenic landscapes. Before embarking on your adventure, especially if you have health concerns or are hiking with children, consider consulting a doctor and always supervise children due to natural drop-offs and road crossings in certain areas. Most trails are less than 3 feet wide, and rock climbing is strictly prohibited throughout the park. Be prepared for rapid weather changes and ensure you are adequately equipped for any conditions.
Red Rocks Park Trails and Roads Map: Detailed view of amphitheatre, parking, and key trails including Red Rocks Trail.
Exploring the Trails of Red Rocks Park
Red Rocks Park boasts several distinct trails, each offering unique experiences for pedestrians and cyclists alike. While some trails are exclusively for hikers, the Red Rocks Trail stands out as a multi-use path welcoming hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers.
The Red Rocks Trail: A Multi-Use Gem
The Red Rocks Trail, the highlight for many visitors, traverses the eastern side of the park and is specifically designed for multi-use activities. This trail is perfect for those looking to hike, enjoy a horseback ride, or tackle a mountain bike route. Conveniently accessible from the Lower North Parking Lot via a connecting trail, the Red Rocks Trail branches out to offer extensive exploration opportunities.
One branch extends north, seamlessly connecting to Jefferson County’s expansive Matthews / Winters Park. The other branch heads east, linking to the challenging Dakota Ridge Trail. For a truly immersive experience, the Red Rocks Trail continues into Matthews / Winters Park, forming a remarkable 6-mile loop. Notably, the connecting trail from the Lower North Parking Lot and the Red Rocks Trail section leading to Matthews / Winters Park are the only designated trails within Red Rocks Park where bicycles, including Class 1 E-Bikes, are permitted. This makes the Red Rocks Trail a prime destination for cyclists seeking scenic routes and exciting rides.
Pedestrian-Only Trails: Immersive Nature Walks
For those who prefer hiking on foot, Red Rocks Park offers several pedestrian-only trails, each with its own unique charm:
- Trading Post Trail: This 1.4-mile trail winds through stunning rock formations, serene valleys, and a picturesque natural meadow. Due to the rugged terrain, hiking boots or sturdy shoes are highly recommended for comfortable and safe exploration.
- Funicular Trail: A short but steep path, the Funicular Trail connects the Upper North Lot to a small parking area along Trading Post Road. This trail follows the historical route of a funicular railway, once used to transport tourists to the summit of Mt. Morrison for panoramic views.
- Mt. Vernon Creek Trail: Stretching for 1 mile, the Mt. Vernon Creek Trail meanders alongside the creek before turning towards the Lower South Parking Lot, where it links with the Trading Post Trail. Along this trail, hikers can enjoy beautiful vistas of the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre nestled within the meadows above the creek.
- Geologic Overlook Trail: Located in the northwest corner of the park, the Geologic Overlook Trail is a short, moderately challenging hike. Access it via Plains View Road to the Geologic Marker & Picnic Shelter, and embark on a brief walk to discover breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Bike racks are conveniently located outside the Trading Post and at the base of the stairs leading from the Upper North Lot to the Top Circle Lot, accommodating cyclists exploring the designated biking trails.
Park Rangers and Safety
Park Rangers actively patrol Red Rocks Park to ensure visitor safety, provide assistance, offer information, and enforce park regulations. Should you require assistance from a Mountain Parks Ranger, you can reach them by calling (303) 331-4050 and pressing 2.
Denver Parks and Recreation, as stewards of this cherished park system, are dedicated to providing excellent customer service and promoting the well-being of residents and the environment through innovative programs and the preservation of these beautiful spaces. Consider participating in Red Rocks Environmental Education and Hiking Programs for a more enriching park experience. Visit the Denver Parks and Recreation website, navigate to “Activities & Programs,” and then select “Outdoor Recreation” for program sign-ups and details.
Staying Active at Red Rocks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is not only a world-renowned music venue but also a popular spot for runners and fitness enthusiasts seeking a challenging workout at an elevation of 6,400 feet. When exercising within the park, please be mindful of others and avoid activities that could damage the venue’s structures. Exercise equipment that obstructs public access is prohibited, and activities on the Top Plaza and walkways are discouraged to maintain a peaceful environment for all visitors.
Person Jumping off a Bench at Red Rocks Park: Captures the playful spirit of visitors enjoying the park's unique environment.
Guidelines for Exercise Groups
For organized exercise groups, specific guidelines apply:
- Friday and Saturday: Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
- Monday through Thursday: Groups may not exceed 20 participants.
- Sunday (8:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.): Larger groups of up to 50 are permitted, but ticket sales and advertising for these activities are not allowed.
General Park Guidelines
To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, please adhere to the following general guidelines at Red Rocks Park:
- Amphitheatre access may be restricted due to scheduled events, and tickets might be required for entry.
- Amplified music is prohibited; please use headphones for personal music enjoyment.
- Climbing or hanging on venue structures is strictly forbidden and may result in arrest.
- Chewing gum is discouraged within the amphitheatre.
- Pets must be leashed at all times, and pet waste must be cleaned up.
- Setting up tables, booths, or signage is not allowed.
- Private vending, including the sale of merchandise, food, or tickets, is prohibited.
- Unauthorized reproduction of the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre logo is against trademark law.
- Skateboards and rollerblades are not permitted.
- Drones or UAVs are prohibited.
- Defacing park property with stickers or art is illegal.
- Glass bottles are not allowed within the park.
- Be aware of potential maintenance operations during your visit and respect staff and equipment.
- Special events, including musical performances or group activities, require registration, insurance, licensing, and permits from Red Rocks management. Ticket sales for unpermitted events are prohibited.
Amphitheatre rules are subject to change. For general inquiries, please call 720-865-2494. For comprehensive park rules, refer to the official Park Rules and explore more about Denver Mountain Parks.
Woman Exercising on Red Rocks Stairs: Shows the amphitheatre steps being used for fitness, highlighting the park's dual purpose as a recreation and event space.
Health Considerations at High Altitude
Exercising at high altitudes like Red Rocks Park requires some health awareness. To mitigate altitude effects:
- Consume potassium and carbohydrates-rich foods.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable footwear.
- If you are visiting from a lower altitude, avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours and prioritize rest.
- Limit strenuous activity initially to allow your body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels.
Dehydration symptoms can include dry eyes and mouth, reduced urination, extreme thirst, nausea, headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. If you suspect dehydration or require medical attention, please dial 9-1-1 immediately.
Man Running on Red Rocks Benches: Illustrates the benches as part of a running workout, emphasizing the park's fitness appeal.
Enjoy your visit to Red Rocks Park and the exhilarating experience of exploring the Red Rocks Trail and other scenic paths within this unique Denver treasure.
