- Hike Distance: 1.2 (2.4RT)
- Denver Drive Time: 50 min
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: 1hr or less
- Activities: Guided Audio Nature Tour, Hiking, Picnic Areas, Visitors Center
- Dogs: Allowed on Leash in Most Areas
- Directions: Click for Google Map
- Trail Type: Out & Back
- Seasons: All Season
- Beauty: Interesting Geology, Canyon Views, Interpretive trail, Wildflowers, Birdwatching
- Fee Required: Visit Colorado State Parks Site
One of the best handicap accessible trails near Denver, the Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park is a 1.2 mile interpretive trail. It runs along the western edge of the top of the canyon and weaves through ponderosa pine and a wonderful variety of wildflowers. The entire trail is a concrete walkway, making the area very accessible to wheelchairs. The trail ends at the Bridge Canyon overlook. Don’t miss the view, it’s wonderful.
Tips:
- Pick up a brochure so that you can find the various access points for the trail and can take advantage of the side trails
- Begin at the visitor’s center where you can pick up an audio tour player which guides you through the 5 different ecosystems that are found in Castlewood Canyon.
- Late June and Early July are is the best times to view the wildflowers in Castlewood Canyon.
- The hike is easy when you consider the distance, but we rated this one as difficult because the trail can be quite uneven and very steep. Watch your footing.
- Hikes in Castlewood Canyon can be quite exposed to the sun, so bring the sunscreen
- Poison Ivy: We’ve been surprised how poison ivy flourishes in this park, often along the edge of the trail. Know how to identify it, so that you can avoid it. But don’t let that deter you from the park. You just need to keep an eye out. See our post on how to identify and treat poison ivy.
Related Hikes:
- Waterfall Hike at Castlewood Canyon State Park
- Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden (handicap accessible trail close to Denver)
Loved this hike. It’s easy to find and just a hop n a skip from Denver. It careens in and out of the Canyon, with a creek. You can hike on the top of the canyon or on the bottom trail and the views are fantastic either way. I will certainly be back.