If you haven’t gotten a chance to take advantage of this year’s spectacular leaf peeping season, you better hit the trail…and soon! While some of the aspens have already peaked (or are on the verge) there is still plenty of beauty to be had, especially in Golden Gate Canyon State Park. I spent the better half of last week gleefully loafing along trails under vibrant canopies of aspens and avidly searching for the best and brightest paths, and I’m happy to report that the Raccoon Trail at Golden Gate Canyon is easily the most beautiful fall hike near Denver – not to mention that the road to get there is utterly breathtaking. But the leaves are falling fast so don’t delay!
Golden Gate Canyon State Park boasts a vast network of trails appropriate for all skill levels, and the Raccoon Loop Trail is definitely one of the most accessible and remarkable for viewing fall colors.
Photo by Reid Phillips
There are a few ways to travel the Raccoon Trail, but I suggest starting your hike at the Reverend's Ridge Campground, traveling along the path to the stunningly beautiful Panorama Point (which is easily a highlight of the trip), then continuing on the loop back to starting point, for a total of 3.3 miles.
The trail is rated easy to moderate, with much of the path winding gently through forests of pine, spruce, fir, and aspen, with only two brief moderate climbs, and is well suited for fit families and anyone looking for a short foliage-filled jaunt.
Photo by Reid Phillips
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You'll enjoy spectacular views of aspen-studded slopes with brilliant patches of orange and gold.
Photo by Reid Phillips
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You'll travel through a narrow valley with bright bursts of autumn glory...
Photo by Reid Phillips
...and beneath vibrant groves that make you feel full and tranquil and warm.
Photo by Reid Phillips
The luxuriant mix of aspens stands, evergreen forests, and open meadows is sublimely serene.
Photo by Reid Phillips
I spy, with my little eye...
Photo by Reid Phillips
...the aspen-rimmed path to peace.
Photo by Reid Phillips
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Round the corner and BAM! Feast your eyes on brilliant aspens, charming valleys, and magnificent peaks.
At Panorama Point you'll be delighted by well-designed viewing structures...
Photo by Reid Phillips
...picturesque points of interest...
Photo by Reid Phillips
...and vista views of a 100-mile stretch of the Continental Divide.
Photo by Reid Phillips
There are dozens of identifiable peaks including Torreys (14,267'), Grays (14,274'), Mt. Evans (14,264'), James Peak (13,260'), Longs Peak (14,256') and Mt. Audubon (13,223') and plaques with indicators to aid in recognition.
Allow plenty of time to explore the various vantage points, gazebo, and pavilion...
Photo by Reid Phillips
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...then continue on down the well-marked trail through Golden Gate Canyon's upper montane and lower sub-alpine forests en route back to your starting point.
Photo by Reid Phillips
You'll once again meander beneath canopies of lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce, blue spruce, white fir, limber pine, and of course, towering stands of golden aspens.
Photo by Reid Phillips
The Raccoon Trail loops back to the start at Reverend's Ridge Campground, and the trails are very well-marked, but be sure take a map in case you decide to add on additional routes.
Photo by Reid Phillips
Pro Tip: If you time your journey just right, after your hike you can drive back up to Panorama Point and be privy to a lovely Rocky Mountain sunset.
Photo by Reid Phillips
What are you waiting for? Get outside and discover the wonder of Golden Gate Canyon today!
