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This is the classic trail to ascend the backside of Golden's signature rock formation, Castle Rock.


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Map Key

1.7

Miles

2.7

KM

Out and Back

6,208' 1,892 m

High

5,840' 1,780 m

Low

370' 113 m

Up

369' 112 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

17%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views

Overview

This well-maintained trail takes you from downtown Golden to its most prominent geological feature, Castle Rock, which allows for 360-degree views of the Front Range and the Great Plains. Not as steep or technical as the Sleeping Elk Trail, this is manageable by most if taken at a moderate pace.

Description

From the neighborhood just east of downtown Golden, locate the trailhead and move through some switchbacks for a quick start to your climb.

After some straightforward but somewhat steep hiking, you'll join the South Table Top Mesa Trail and head west from there along the top of the cliff. At the base of Castle Rock, start a series of concrete steps up the final stretch where a large flat area and expansive views await.

History & Background

Since its founding in 1859, Castle Rock has always looked out over the city of Golden and is visible on its town logo. In 1873, a little brewery was also founded in its shadow by Adolph Coors.

Contacts

Shared By:

JM Addleman with improvements by Lily Douglas

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 34 votes

#508

Overall
  4.0 from 34 votes
5 Star
26%
4 Star
47%
3 Star
26%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#108

in Colorado

#508

Overall
52 Views Last Month
15,717 Since May 30, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Golden's South Table Mountain and Castle Rock from the head of the Sleeping Elk Trail
May 21, 2015 near Golden, CO
Peak of South Table Mountain Park Overlooking the city of Golden, CO
Oct 7, 2016 near Golden, CO
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Jul 10, 2024
Mark Douglas Dally
18h 00m
Apr 16, 2023
Toni Moran
Mar 26, 2023
Will Heinle
Nov 21, 2022
Carolyn Jungels
Jul 24, 2022
Noriko Rothberg
Jul 22, 2022
Ryan Bowman
2.5mi
Mar 22, 2022
L Slvr
Apr 5, 2021
Edgar Villeda
zero shade, but nice views of golden at the top!
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