Rock Park, Castle Rock Colorado
Rock Park in Castle Rock, Colorado is a popular hiking area that features a 1.4-mile loop trail around a prominent rock formation just south of Denver.
Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the town, the Front Range, and even Pikes Peak from the park. The park is open year-round and offers a relatively easy hike with some uphill climbs.
The rock formation features a giant pre-lit star and towering flag pole. Around the holidays and New Year, the start is lit up and you can see it all across town.
Hike Rock Park
This hike is perfect for families and casual adventurers. Though the path is relatively easy, keep in mind that there are some inclines. Proper footwear is key – ditch the sandals and opt for closed-toed shoes with good traction.
Park at the small Rock Park lot. This can fill up quickly and there is near by street parking in the close by neighborhoods. The immediate street outside the lot is not open to parking
Are dogs allowed at castle rock state park?
Yes, it is dog friendly, but always keep your furry companions on a leash to protect them and avoid disturbing any wildlife.
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Rattlesnakes can be present in the area, so keep an eye out on the trail and avoid venturing off the path.
By following these simple precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable hike at Castle Rock Park.
History of Rock Park
“The Rock,” has always been a central part of the Castle Rock’s history, and Rock Park reflects that connection. Here’s a breakdown of how the park came to be:
The Rock’s Founding Father: The prominent rock formation got its name in 1859 from a gold seeker named David Kellogg, who saw a resemblance to a castle.
Land Acquisitions: The park itself wasn’t formed overnight. It’s made up of eight separate parcels acquired as public open space between 1947 and 1991.
Piece by Piece: The land ownership shifted throughout the years. Originally granted to Daniel Fitch in 1890, it passed to George Stewart in 1922. After his death in 1943, his heirs started conveying pieces to the town.
The Town Steps In: In 1947, the first 20 acres north of the Rock were deeded to the town by Stewart’s heirs. Over the next few decades, they obtained the top of the Rock itself, surrounding lots, and finally a large parcel from Columbia Savings and Loan.
Today, Rock Park stands at 62.3 acres, a testament to the town’s commitment to preserving the natural area around this significant landmark.
Downtown Castle Rock
After your hike at Castle Rock Park, charming downtown Castle Rock awaits with a variety of options to relax, refuel, and explore.
- There are plentiful local eats you wont find elsewhere like Z’Abbracci, a Pizza, Pasta & Tap House. This local gem is right on main street beneath the canopy of string lights.
- The B&B cafe has been around since the 1930s, and the building itself dates back to 1918. Walk in and you’ll be greeted by the original tin ceiling, a marble back-bar from Leadville, and classic booths that have seen countless conversations over the years. The cafe even has some bullet holes in the ceiling and back bar, remnants of a wild west past.
Castle Rock, Colorado, truly has something for everyone. From the thrill of conquering The Rock to the charm of historic downtown, this vibrant town offers a delightful escape. Immerse yourself in nature, indulge in delicious food, explore unique shops, or delve into local history.
So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the magic of Castle Rock and Rock Park!
Interested in some more Colorado history, check out Who Were Colorado’s Most Daring Outlaws? You Might Be Surprised!