Rock Park — Attraction in Castle Rock

I love this hike.

It's so funny that I lived here for almost 3 years before I finally did it. I guess you take things that are local for granted. But not anymore!

We did this hike twice in one week because we enjoyed it so much (and my daughter missed out on the first hike haha).

It's a little bit challenging depending upon the route that you take. I believe Paul is the easier route. John is the harder one. It is a bit of an elevation incline in a short amount of time so if you are not physically fit it could be more challenging for you or if you are not from Colorado the altitude might even be an issue. However for locals I don't think it would be a problem.

Some people even climb at the top but there are a lot of signs warning you about the risks including death. So climb at your own risk.

I just take the trail up to the loop around at the top where there is a picnic table and really nice views. I love going up there at dawn or dusk for the best views. That does result in some limited visibility climbing so bring some lights if you plan to do the hike at that time.

Also this seems to be like make out point or whatever so sorry for the couples I might be disturbing with my family hike haha. But it's a good place to take a...

Skill level I would say it's a 6/10 if you stay on the designated trail. Loose sand/gravel on most of the hike. Some areas have been improved using wood 6x6s as steps. Since the trail no longer has stairs to the very top, some rock climbing is required for the summit that i would say is a 9/10 hiking skill. (climbing skill, it's a cool 1 mayyyybe 2/10). Definitely not for little kids or the uncoordinated. ⚠️ BE AWARE of your footing and ☠️CHECK BEFORE YOU STEP☠️ for loose rocks from CONTINUOUS EROSION⚠️ The easiest route I found was where you can see the old handrail from the viewpoint with the end of trail sign. (North East side) Start climbing there and go to the right. Please be safe and conscious of yourself and other visitors. Stick to the trails if you get dizzy from heights or unsure of your ability to climb safely.

Back for a summer visit and its still just as lovely. Having a picnic before I have to go do adult things at the...

One of the first things to see in Castle Rock is the famous rock at Rock Park - a 1.4 mile looped hike which provides sweeping views of the area and Pikes Peak in the distance. The hike itself is not challenging but has some steep inclines as you get closer to towards the base of the rock. There was previously a trail up to the top of the rock but due to safety reasons the stairs were taken down. The best part of the hike for me was enjoying the beauty of the area, noticing the birds and vegetation along the route and spotting my first wild cactus on the trail (the cactus was a big moment for me, never having seen one in the wild yet!) There are benches available for picnicing as well as restrooms...