How to Hike Red Rocks Park in Denver Area

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, nestled just west of Denver, Colorado, is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the American West. Renowned for its towering sandstone formations, breathtaking panoramic views, and world-famous open-air concert venue, the park offers far more than just a stage under the stars. For hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Red Rocks is a premier destination that blends geological wonder with accessible trail systems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Colorado hiker, understanding how to hike Red Rocks Park properly ensures safety, enjoyment, and a deeper connection with the landscape.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigating Red Rocks Park on foot. From trail selection and preparation to timing, etiquette, and local insights, you’ll learn everything needed to make your hike memorable, sustainable, and rewarding. Unlike many urban parks, Red Rocks combines high desert terrain with steep climbs, narrow ledges, and exposed rock faces — making informed preparation essential. This tutorial is designed to empower you with practical knowledge, expert-backed best practices, real-world examples, and essential tools so you can explore Red Rocks with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Starting Point

Red Rocks Park has multiple access points, each offering a different hiking experience. The two most popular entry points are the Main Entrance off CO-93 and the North Entrance near the Trading Post. For most hikers, the Main Entrance is ideal because it provides direct access to the primary trail network and visitor center.

If you’re arriving from Denver, take I-70 west to exit 257 (CO-93 South). Follow signs for Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Parking is available in the main lot, which fills quickly on weekends and during events. Arrive early — ideally before 8 a.m. — to secure a spot and avoid crowds.

Alternative access includes the Morrison Trailhead, located just south of the park on CO-93. This route is less crowded and offers a more secluded approach, ideal for experienced hikers seeking solitude. The trailhead here connects directly to the Trading Post Trail and the Dinosaur Ridge path.

2. Select Your Trail

Red Rocks offers several well-marked trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs. Your choice depends on fitness level, time available, and desired views. Below are the top four trails:

• Red Rocks Trail (Loop): A 1.5-mile loop that circles the amphitheater. This is the most popular route for beginners and families. It’s paved and flat, with interpretive signs explaining the geology and history of the formations. Ideal for a 45-minute to 1-hour stroll.
• Trading Post Trail: A 2.5-mile out-and-back trail starting near the amphitheater’s north side. It ascends gently through juniper and piñon pine forests to a ridge overlooking the amphitheater. Offers the best photo opportunities of the red sandstone walls and the Denver skyline in the distance.
• Mount Morrison Trail: A 3.5-mile round-trip hike with 800 feet of elevation gain. This is the most challenging trail in the park, leading to the summit of Mount Morrison at 6,632 feet. The trail is rocky and steep in sections, but rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the Front Range, Denver, and the Great Plains.
• Dinosaur Ridge Trail: Located just outside the main park boundary, this 1.5-mile loop is perfect for families and fossil enthusiasts. It follows a paved path past dinosaur footprints and geological layers dating back 150 million years. Accessible via a short drive from the Red Rocks parking area.

For first-time visitors, we recommend combining the Red Rocks Trail with the Trading Post Trail for a 4-mile loop that provides both accessibility and elevation. This route takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and offers a balanced experience of scenery, exercise, and education.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Even short hikes at Red Rocks require thoughtful preparation. The high desert environment brings unique challenges: intense sun, sudden wind gusts, and temperature swings. Here’s what to bring:

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip. The sandstone is porous and can be slippery when wet or dusty. Avoid sandals or worn-out sneakers.
• Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. There are no water fountains on the trails. A hydration bladder or reusable bottles are recommended.
• Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen. The rock surfaces reflect sunlight, increasing UV exposure.
• Layered Clothing: Temperatures can drop 20°F within an hour, especially at higher elevations. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a light fleece, and a wind-resistant shell.
• Navigation: Download offline maps using AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service is unreliable in the canyon areas.
• Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit. You’ll burn calories climbing the sandstone steps and ridges.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for cactus spines (common in the area).

Do not rely on park facilities for supplies. The gift shop sells bottled water and snacks, but prices are inflated and selection is limited.

4. Begin Your Hike

Once you’ve selected your trail and packed appropriately, follow these steps to begin your hike safely:

1. Check the park’s official website or call ahead for trail closures. Weather-related closures occur frequently during monsoon season (July–September) due to flash flood risks.
2. Sign the trail register at the trailhead. This helps park rangers account for visitors in case of emergency.
3. Start early. Hiking between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. avoids the midday heat and crowds. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
4. Follow marked trails. Straying from paths damages fragile desert vegetation and increases risk of injury on unstable rock.
5. Use the handrails and stairs provided on steep sections. These were installed for safety and erosion control.
6. Take breaks on designated benches or shaded ledges. Do not sit directly on the red rock — it retains heat and can cause burns.

On the Trading Post Trail, you’ll encounter a junction around 0.8 miles in. Turn right to continue toward the ridge overlook. Left leads to the amphitheater’s backstage area, which is closed to the public. Stay on the main path.

For Mount Morrison, the trail begins behind the amphitheater’s north parking lot. Look for the wooden sign with the trail map. The ascent is steep but well-maintained. The final 0.3 miles involve scrambling over loose rock — use your hands for balance. The summit is marked by a large cairn and a panoramic view that stretches from Longs Peak to Pikes Peak.

5. Navigate the Summit and Return

At the top of Mount Morrison, take time to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the view. This is one of the few places in the park where you can see both the urban sprawl of Denver and the untouched wilderness of the Front Range. Take photos, but avoid climbing on the rock outcrops — they are culturally significant to Native American tribes and fragile.

On the descent, maintain control. Many injuries occur on the way down due to fatigue and loose scree. Use a zigzag pattern to reduce knee strain. If you’re tired, consider taking the Trading Post Trail back to the amphitheater instead of retracing your steps. This creates a scenic loop and reduces fatigue.

Always complete your hike before sunset. The park closes at dusk, and trails are not lit. If you’re hiking in late fall or winter, daylight ends as early as 4:30 p.m. Plan accordingly.

6. Exit and Leave No Trace

After your hike, return to the main parking lot. Use the provided trash and recycling bins. Do not leave water bottles, food wrappers, or tissues on the trail. Even biodegradable items like apple cores can attract wildlife and disrupt natural behaviors.

Before leaving, take a moment to appreciate the park’s cultural significance. Red Rocks is sacred to the Ute and Arapaho peoples. Respect signage, avoid carving or painting rock surfaces, and keep voices low near ceremonial areas.

Best Practices

1. Respect the Environment

Red Rocks sits within the Front Range ecosystem, a fragile transition zone between high plains and mountain forests. The park’s sandstone formations are over 250 million years old and are easily eroded by foot traffic. Stick to designated trails, even if others have created unofficial paths. Trampling native plants like sagebrush and wild buckwheat reduces biodiversity and accelerates soil loss.

Never remove rocks, fossils, or plant specimens. Colorado law prohibits the collection of natural materials in state parks. Even small souvenirs disrupt the ecological balance.

2. Be Weather-Aware

Colorado’s mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even on a clear morning, afternoon thunderstorms can roll in rapidly. Watch for darkening skies, distant thunder, or sudden wind shifts. If you’re on the ridge or summit when a storm approaches, descend immediately. Sandstone becomes dangerously slippery when wet, and lightning strikes are common on exposed summits.

During winter (November–March), trails may be icy or snow-covered. Microspikes or crampons are recommended. Temperatures can drop below freezing at night, even in December. Check the National Weather Service for Red Rocks-specific forecasts before heading out.

3. Wildlife Awareness

Red Rocks is home to mule deer, coyotes, prairie dogs, and occasional bobcats. Keep a safe distance — do not feed or approach animals. Prairie dogs are especially curious and may approach hikers, but they carry fleas and can be aggressive if cornered.

Birdwatchers will spot red-tailed hawks, peregrine falcons, and the occasional golden eagle soaring above the cliffs. Use binoculars for viewing. Do not use calls or recordings to attract wildlife — it’s both unethical and illegal under federal guidelines.

4. Trail Etiquette

Red Rocks sees over 2 million visitors annually. To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment:

• Yield to uphill hikers — they’re working harder and need space.
• Step aside on narrow paths to let others pass.
• Keep dogs on a leash at all times. Even well-trained pets can startle wildlife or other hikers.
• Use headphones for music. Loud audio disrupts the natural soundscape and the experience of others.
• Do not climb on the amphitheater seating. It’s a protected historic site.

5. Timing and Crowds

The busiest times are weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., especially during spring and fall. To avoid congestion:

• Hike on weekdays if possible.
• Arrive before sunrise for a peaceful experience.
• Consider hiking in the late afternoon — the light on the rocks is spectacular, and crowds thin out after 5 p.m.

During concerts at the amphitheater, the park remains open for hiking, but parking is limited and trails may be closed temporarily for event setup. Check the amphitheater’s event calendar before planning your visit.

6. Photography Tips

Red Rocks is a photographer’s paradise. For the best shots:

• Shoot during golden hour — the hour after sunrise or before sunset. The red hues of the rock glow intensely.
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the sandstone.
• Bring a tripod for long exposures at dusk.
• Frame your shots with the amphitheater’s arches or the distant Denver skyline.
• Respect other photographers’ space. Don’t block trails or climb on rocks to get a better angle.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Park Website

The Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre official website is your most reliable source for trail conditions, closures, parking updates, and event schedules. The site includes downloadable trail maps, seasonal alerts, and accessibility information.

2. Mobile Apps

• AllTrails: Offers detailed user reviews, elevation profiles, and offline map downloads for all Red Rocks trails. The Pro version includes satellite imagery and GPS tracking.
• Gaia GPS: Ideal for advanced hikers. Provides topographic layers, real-time weather overlays, and route planning tools.
• Mountain Forecast: Provides hyperlocal weather predictions for Red Rocks, including wind speed, precipitation, and UV index.
• iNaturalist: Use this app to identify plants and animals you encounter. Your observations contribute to citizen science efforts.

3. Printed Maps and Guides

While digital tools are helpful, always carry a physical map. The Red Rocks Park Visitor Center sells a free, laminated trail map that includes elevation points, rest areas, and points of interest. Local bookstores in Morrison and Denver also carry “Hiking Colorado” guides by Jerry Rodgers and “Day Hikes Near Denver” by Brian Cooke — both include detailed Red Rocks sections.

4. Guided Tours

For those unfamiliar with the area or seeking deeper historical context, guided hikes are available through local outfitters:

• Denver Nature & Science Museum: Offers weekly interpretive walks focused on geology and Native American history.
• Red Rocks Conservancy: A nonprofit that leads educational hikes and volunteer cleanups. Check their calendar for public events.
• Colorado Mountain School: Provides guided technical hikes for those interested in rock scrambling and safety training.

5. Weather and Air Quality Tools

Before heading out, consult:

• National Weather Service — Boulder for precise forecasts.
• AirNow.gov for real-time air quality readings. Wildfire smoke from the West can reduce visibility and impact breathing, especially at altitude.

6. Accessibility Resources

Red Rocks is committed to accessibility. The Red Rocks Trail (loop) is fully ADA-compliant, with paved surfaces and accessible restrooms. The amphitheater’s main entrance also has wheelchair-accessible parking and viewing areas. For visitors with mobility challenges, the park offers complimentary shuttle service from the main lot to the amphitheater entrance. Contact the visitor center in advance to arrange assistance.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Family Hike

Emily and James, a couple from Aurora, brought their two children (ages 7 and 10) to Red Rocks on a Saturday morning in May. They started at the Main Entrance, picked up a free trail map, and chose the Red Rocks Loop combined with the first half of the Trading Post Trail. They packed snacks, water, and a small first aid kit. Their kids loved spotting prairie dogs and reading the geology signs. They took breaks on shaded benches and finished the 3-mile loop in 2.5 hours. “We didn’t realize how much we’d learn just walking,” Emily said. “The kids asked about how the rocks turned red — we looked it up later and found out it was iron oxide. That sparked a whole science project.”

Example 2: The Solo Hiker’s Sunrise Challenge

David, a 42-year-old software engineer from Boulder, hikes Red Rocks every other week to clear his mind. One morning in October, he arrived at 5:45 a.m. to tackle Mount Morrison before sunrise. He wore layered clothing, carried 2.5 liters of water, and used a headlamp. He reached the summit just as the sun crested the horizon, casting a fiery glow over the entire Front Range. “It was silent except for the wind,” he recalls. “I sat there for 20 minutes, just breathing. I didn’t take a single photo. That moment was worth more than any picture.” He descended by the Trading Post Trail and returned to his car by 8:15 a.m., energized and centered.

Example 3: The Photographer’s Golden Hour

Lena, a professional landscape photographer from Fort Collins, planned a 10-day trip to Colorado with Red Rocks as her centerpiece. She arrived two hours before sunset on a clear September evening. Using a wide-angle lens and graduated neutral density filter, she captured a series of images showing the amphitheater’s arches silhouetted against the orange sky. She waited for the last light to hit the “Red Rock Wall” directly — a phenomenon that occurs only in late summer. Her photo series later won first place in the Colorado Nature Photography Contest. “The light here is unlike anywhere else,” she says. “It’s not just color — it’s texture, depth, and emotion.”

Example 4: The Winter Hike

During a rare snowfall in January, a group of four friends from Lakewood ventured to Red Rocks with microspikes and insulated gloves. The trails were quiet, dusted with snow, and eerily beautiful. They hiked the Trading Post Trail and found frozen waterfalls clinging to the rock faces. “It felt like we had the park to ourselves,” said Mark, one of the hikers. “The snow muffled everything. You could hear your own breath.” They brought thermoses of hot tea and ate sandwiches on a sheltered ledge. They left no trace — even their footprints vanished by nightfall.

FAQs

Is Red Rocks Park open year-round?

Yes. Red Rocks Park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. year-round. The amphitheater may close for concerts or private events, but the trails remain accessible unless otherwise posted.

Do I need a permit to hike Red Rocks?

No permit is required for day hiking. However, if you plan to camp, conduct commercial photography, or lead a group of 10 or more, you must obtain a special use permit from the park office.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are allowed on all trails but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Clean up after your pet. Some areas near the amphitheater may have temporary restrictions during events.

Are there restrooms on the trails?

Restrooms are available at the Main Entrance, near the amphitheater, and at the Trading Post. There are no restrooms on the trails themselves. Plan accordingly.

How difficult is the Mount Morrison Trail?

It’s rated as moderate to strenuous. The trail has a steady incline and requires use of hands on the final section. Not recommended for young children or those with vertigo. Average completion time: 2 to 3 hours round trip.

What’s the best time of year to hike Red Rocks?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and clear skies. Summer is hot and crowded; winter can be icy but offers solitude and stunning snow-dusted views.

Can I hike at night?

No. The park closes at dusk. Flashlights or headlamps are not permitted after closing time. Safety and preservation policies prohibit nighttime hiking.

Is there cell service on the trails?

Spotty at best. Verizon has the most reliable signal near the amphitheater. AT&T and T-Mobile often lose coverage in the canyon. Download offline maps and carry a physical map as backup.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stay calm. Do not wander further. Use your phone to call 911 if you have signal. If not, stay put and wait for park rangers, who conduct regular patrols. Carry a whistle — three blasts is the universal distress signal.

Are there guided night hikes?

No. Due to safety and conservation policies, guided night hikes are not offered at Red Rocks.

Can I bring a drone?

No. Drone use is strictly prohibited in Red Rocks Park and surrounding federal lands. Violations result in fines and confiscation of equipment.

Conclusion

Hiking Red Rocks Park is more than a physical activity — it’s a journey through time, geology, and culture. The towering red sandstone formations have stood for millennia, witnessing ancient seas, dinosaurs, Native American ceremonies, and the rise of modern Denver. To hike here is to walk through layers of Earth’s history, and doing so responsibly ensures that future generations can experience the same awe.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate Red Rocks safely, respectfully, and joyfully. From selecting the right trail and packing essential gear to understanding weather patterns and respecting wildlife, every step matters. Whether you’re a solo hiker seeking solitude, a family looking for an educational outing, or a photographer chasing the perfect light, Red Rocks delivers an experience unlike any other urban-adjacent natural space in the country.

Remember: the most important tool you carry isn’t your water bottle or GPS — it’s your awareness. Be present. Be quiet. Be mindful. Leave only footprints, take only memories, and honor the land that has welcomed so many before you.

Now that you know how to hike Red Rocks Park in the Denver area, it’s time to lace up your boots, step onto the trail, and discover why this place continues to inspire awe — one step at a time.