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Hike the Creek Bottom Trail

Franktown, Colorado

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

4.1 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Haley Baker

A beautiful trail that follows Cherry Creek as it meanders through Castlewood Canyon State Park.

The West Side of Castlewood Canyon is the more "rugged" side of the park, it has a dirt road, gravel parking lots, and only vault toilets. Luckily, this also means this is a less popular side of the park, making for less crowded trails and easier parking! 

Park at the first trailhead, for the Homestead Trail. You'll follow the Homestead Trail (J) until you meet up with the Creek Bottom Trail (G). The trail is mostly covered with oak trees and has gentle grades the entire way. Towards the end of the trail, you'll see a cascading waterfall on your left side.

When you reach the Dam Trail, the trail is officially over, but you should take some time to explore the historic dam ruins. This dam was built in 1890 and collapsed in 1933. The collapse released over a billion gallons of water that travelled over 40 miles of surrounding wilderness before eventually flooding Denver. 

Dogs are allowed as long as they are on a leash! 

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Features

Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers

Hike the Creek Bottom Trail Reviews

It’s beautiful and not too hard. Perfect for those who are not necessarily expert hikers but is still fun for those who are. Be aware that there is a parking fee (around $9 per car as of 2020 for a one day pass) as it is a CO state park. But the money goes to protecting the wild life and keeping the trails nice so I don’t mind the fee.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike the Rim Rock Trail

Hike the Rim Rock / Creek Bottom Trail Loop

Lake Gulch & Inner Canyon Loop Trail

Inner Canyon Trail

Hike the Canyon View Nature Trail, Castlewood Canyon

Run the Challenge Hill