Okay, I’d like to say that this my last Roxborough post but, spoiler alert, it’s not. I will say that after this and my next post on the park I think I’ve hiked nearly the whole damn thing, though 😂.
I have three days off every other week due to my work schedule and this week I went hiking each of those days, which was amazing. I’ve found I have a lot more time to play with or get things done when I’m not spending that extra time driving to and from hikes or snowboarding....which was sometimes upwards of 8 hours each weekend. But honestly, as weird as it sounds, I really miss the actual drive into the mountains.
Weird? Maybe. But I’ve always found driving to be really relaxing for some reason. And, like hiking solo, it gives me an opportunity to be alone and think. As an introvert I’ve realized I REALLY need this time for myself and think now that I’m lame and no longer party, I’ve done a much better job of making sure I take care of myself this way. I also don’t really have an option anymore of “crashing” for a few days between work and my son (if you’re an introvert, you know what I mean).
And I don’t know if anyone feels the same, but I know I REALLY miss that sense of freedom driving out to wherever with no set timeline gave me. I am not a crier, but I’m 100 percent sure the next road trip I go on I’m about to straight bawl like a baby infant child when I see that first sunrise or set in a new state. My urge to run has been so real right now and thats something I was always able to calm with those weekend treks. If anyone has any suggestions to help that flight response, all ears.
And back to the hike...so this was my third time at Roxborough State Park this year. If you want to learn more about the park itself and some other trails there, check out hikes 12 and 26.
I knew I wanted to do something slightly longer than my two other hikes this weekend now that the trails were dry(er). I chose this particular figure eight loop because it‘s clocked in on AllTrails as 5.2 miles and has 777 feet of elevation gain, so nothing terribly tough, but a little bit of a workout. I’ve done this one before and I’d say it’s a very entry level moderate. Probably not something I’d take my son on due to it’s length, but nothing tough with some great views if you’re looking for something in Denver burbs.
My hike ended up being around 5.9 miles according to my AppleWatch, but again, I’m a wanderer 🤷🏼♀️. I hit the Fountain Valley Loop first and this is one easy-peasy, but very exposed trail.
The trail starts off with the option to walk a few yards in and check out the Fountain Valley Overlook. This area is really nice and has a bench for families, etc to take in the views. The whole loop (just this portion, not South Rim) is a great one for kiddos given the overlooks and cabins, just make sure to bring PLENTY of water and sunscreen those babies up.
After the overlook, I veered to the left and did the loop clockwise as everyone else seemed to be heading to the overlooks first. I was not disappointed as I was greeted by Roxborough’s friendly herd of deer. In addition to making some new friends, there are some pretty cool rock formations to stare at along your path and about halfway through this trail you hit some old cabin ruins.
As the loop turns, you’ll walk for a short stretch and arrive at the Lyon’s overlook. The overlook is 100% worth trekking up the sandy stairs as you’ll be met with some pretty rad geological views (not pictured here, but please check the Lyon’s Overlook post if you‘re curious). This area does have a deck like feature that you can hang out on and take in the views, if that’s your thing.
With that, I was back at the start and began my trek on the Willow Creek Trail to the South Rim Trail. Willow Creek is an easy, flat trail that begins in a forested area and opens up to expansive red rock views. Given this was my technical half way point, I decided to take a break an have som le fruit snacks. Wouldn’t you know it, my friends had circled around to join me.
After my fruit snacks (best trail snack ever), I set off to begin South Rim. You cross a bridge and this is where nearly all of the elevation gain on this combination of trails comes from. The trail again starts off forested and opens up to sweeping views of the whole park.
This was probably the muddiest part of my trek and there was still some snow, although I’d venture to guess its melted on this portion of the trail by now (May). After a bit of a trek, you’re treated with 360 views and if you veer to the left have some city views to take in as well. Word of caution, it does get very windy up here making it a bit colder and...well...windier.
The views continue on you’re descent until you hit the small section of Willow Creek which takes you back across the road and to the parking lots.
Overall, another great hike at Roxborough State Park for hike 30 of the 52 Hike Challenge. As much as I‘d love to say I’m catching up...I am most definitely quite behind. So here’s hoping I get caught up in time to appropriately celebrate hike 52! Until next time, happy hiking 🏔✌🏼🥾!
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