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Once a year, Colorado’s Aspens turn from bright green to a golden yellow, attracting leaf peepers from all over the country. The fall foliage in Colorado is quick, lasting only a few weeks in September, with different areas peaking at various times. But, there is one hiking trail that cannot be missed, and it’s located in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
First, let me tell you about Golden Gate Canyon State Park. It is a beautiful state park located in Colorado’s Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.
The park covers an area of over 12,000 acres and is filled with forests, meadows, rocky peaks, and streams. Elevations within the park range from 7,500 to 10,400 feet above sea level, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park has many outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
The park has over 35 hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes.
One of my favored hikes is easy to get you and is incredibly stunning during fall: the Raccoon Trail.
The Raccoon Trail
The Raccoon Trail is one of my favorite Golden Gate Canyon State Park hikes. It is a moderate loop trail that allows you to experience the beauty of the golden Aspens.
How Long Is The Raccoon Trail?
The trail is approximately 2.6 miles long, with an elevation gain of 463 feet. It typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on your pace and hiking experience.
The Raccoon Trail Hike
From the trailhead, hikers will follow well-marked paths through dense pine and aspen forests, with occasional openings that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
This trail is one of the best places to see the Aspens change, thanks to the meadow at the top of the trail.
Along the way, you may encounter various wildlife species, including deer, elk, birds, and possibly black bears.
During our hike along this trail, we saw large elk resting in the grass, but never a black bear. So, being aware of your surroundings and following proper wildlife safety guidelines is essential.
If you have time to do one hike in Colorado’s fall foliage period, do this one! I have hiked the entire state of Colorado during the fall, and the Raccoon Trail is always in my top 3.
Where Is Golden Gate Canyon State Park Located?
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is about 30 miles northwest of Denver, near Golden. Its proximity to the Denver metropolitan area makes it a popular destination for hikers.
The Raccoon trailhead is near the Reverends’ Ridge Campground in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
You can easily rent a car from Denver Airport, take a day trip to the area, and even stay in the charming town of Golden.
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