Matthews/Winters Park: A Natural Escape
Discover scenic trails, historical remnants, and stunning red rock formations at this expansive park near Denver.
Matthews/Winters Park, located in Golden, Colorado, offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Explore trails winding through the remnants of the 1860s Mount Vernon settlement and around ancient red rock formations. With over 12 miles of trails, it's a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Matthews / Winters Park
- 1103 County Rd 93, Golden, Colorado, 80401, US
- +1303-271-5925
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 6 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as there are limited water sources within the park.
- Be aware of your surroundings and practice trail etiquette, as the park is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers.
- Check the Jefferson County Open Space website for any closures or park regulations before your visit.
- Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the heat, especially during summer, as the rocks can get hot.
Getting There
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Driving
From Denver, take I-70 west to exit 259 for Morrison. Head south on CO-93 towards Morrison. The park entrance is on the right. Parking is free, but the lot can fill up quickly on weekends. Additional parking is available at the Stegosaurus Lot across CO-93, accessible via a flashing crosswalk. If the primary lot is full, do not park on the shoulder of CO-93.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to the park entrance, you can take the RTD Route 16 bus to the intersection of US 6 and CO-93 in Golden. From there, it's approximately a 3-mile walk south on CO-93 to the park entrance. Be aware that there are no sidewalks for a portion of this walk. RTD bus fare is typically $3.00 for a local 3-hour pass.
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Walking
If you are staying in Morrison, you can walk or bike north on CO-93 to the park entrance. Be cautious of traffic as there are limited sidewalks along the highway. From the Wooly Mammoth parking lot, a concrete trail on the east side of the lot goes under the I-70 overpass to the trailhead.
Discover more about Matthews / Winters Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mother Cabrini Shrine
2.6 km
Experience spiritual serenity and breathtaking mountain views at the Mother Cabrini Shrine, a cherished sanctuary in Golden, Colorado.
Boettcher Mansion-Lookout Mt
5.5 km
Discover the stunning Boettcher Mansion on Lookout Mountain, a historic venue with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Windy Saddle Park
5.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Windy Saddle Park in Golden, Colorado - a perfect outdoor escape for all ages.
Mount Falcon Park
6.2 km
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Walker Mansion Ruins
6.8 km
Explore the enchanting Walker Mansion Ruins in Morrison, Colorado, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty amidst serene landscapes.
Downtown Golden
6.9 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Downtown Golden, a vibrant destination in Colorado perfect for tourists seeking adventure and culture.
Brandy Duvall memorial cross
7.1 km
Explore the Brandy Duvall Memorial Cross in Golden, Colorado—a serene historical landmark honoring a beloved local figure amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Newsboy Statue
7.1 km
Discover the charm of Golden, Colorado with a visit to The Newsboy Statue, a historic monument celebrating the spirit of youthful entrepreneurship.
West Trailhead
7.1 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas at West Trailhead, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Indian Hills, Colorado.
Arapahoe City Histoical Marker
9.3 km
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Brickyard House
9.5 km
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North Table Mountain
10.8 km
Discover North Table Mountain, a breathtaking peak in Colorado, offering stunning views and diverse hiking trails for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Wheat Ridge Historic Park
11.8 km
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Fort Logan National Cemetery
14.1 km
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Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides
14.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Rocky Mountains from above with Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dinosaur Ridge
0.4 km
Walk where dinosaurs roamed at Dinosaur Ridge, a top-rated fossil site near Denver with tracks, bones, and fascinating geological history.
Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center
1.4 km
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The Martin G. Lockley Discovery Center at Dino Ridge
1.7 km
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Green Mountain
2.4 km
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William Frederick Hayden Park
3.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Green Mountain, Lakewood's expansive natural escape with hiking, biking, and stunning scenery.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
3.2 km
Explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: a breathtaking natural venue for concerts, hiking, and stunning red rock formations in Colorado.
Lariat Loop Scenic Byway
4.9 km
Discover the stunning Lariat Loop Scenic Byway, a breathtaking drive through Colorado's majestic landscapes and rich history, perfect for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Barrels & Bottles Brewery at Camp George West
5.0 km
Discover the heart of Golden, Colorado, at Barrels & Bottles Brewery, where craft beer and delicious food await in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Morrison Natural History Museum
5.2 km
Explore Colorado's prehistoric past at the Morrison Natural History Museum. Discover dinosaurs, fossils, and hands-on exhibits for an unforgettable journey through time.
Lookout Mountain
5.2 km
Discover the majestic beauty of Lookout Mountain, where breathtaking views and rich history converge for an unforgettable Colorado experience.
Lookout Mountain Park
5.2 km
Discover panoramic views and Western history at Lookout Mountain Park, home of Buffalo Bill's Museum and Grave, along the scenic Lariat Loop.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
5.2 km
Explore the rich history of the Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where legends come to life amidst stunning Rocky Mountain views.
Morrison Trailhead
5.4 km
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Lair o’ the Bear Park
5.4 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Lair o' the Bear Park, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado.
Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve
5.4 km
Explore nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and breathtaking views at Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve near Golden, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Buckhorn Exchange
17.6 km
Discover Buckhorn Exchange in Denver - where history meets exquisite cuisine at Colorado's oldest steakhouse.
duo Restaurant
17.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Duo Restaurant in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.
Forest Room 5
18.0 km
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Bar Dough
18.0 km
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El Five
18.1 km
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Linger
18.1 km
Discover Linger: A unique dining destination blending global street food flavors with stunning views in Denver's Highland neighborhood.
Jacques
18.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Jacques in Denver's Highland neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.
Senor Bear
18.3 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors at Senor Bear in Denver's vibrant Highland neighborhood.
Coohills
18.3 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at Coohills in Denver—where exquisite flavors meet elegant dining experiences.
Rhein Haus Denver
18.5 km
Discover the heart of Germany in Denver at Rhein Haus - where authentic cuisine meets lively entertainment.
The Bindery
18.5 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine at The Bindery in Denver's Highland neighborhood—where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Nola Jane Restaurant & Bar
18.5 km
Savor authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine at Nola Jane Restaurant & Bar in Denver—where vibrant flavors meet Southern charm.
INTUEAT - Denver's Fine Dining Experiences
18.5 km
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Citizen Rail
18.6 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at Citizen Rail in Denver - where locally sourced ingredients meet vibrant culinary creativity.
Tavernetta
18.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jolly Goods
16.3 km
Explore Jolly Goods in Denver for unique gifts and clothing, showcasing local artisans and a variety of charming finds.
Ruby Jane Boutique - Denver Highlands
16.4 km
Explore Ruby Jane Boutique in Denver Highlands for unique women's fashion, stylish accessories, and charming home goods that reflect local flair.
Agape Grow
16.9 km
Explore Agape Grow, a charming antique store filled with unique vintage finds and captivating collectibles from yesteryears.
Common Era
18.2 km
Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Common Era, a boutique in Denver's Highland neighborhood that celebrates individuality and style.
Art Of Beaming
18.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Art of Beaming, the heart of Denver's vibrant gift shopping scene.
Patterns & Pops
18.3 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Patterns & Pops in Denver's trendy Highland neighborhood, blending contemporary style with local charm.
MCA Shop
18.4 km
Explore the MCA Shop in Denver for unique gifts that capture the city's artistic spirit and support local artisans.
Mojave + Tejon Dry Goods
18.5 km
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milly rose designs
18.5 km
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Show Pony Vintage - LoDo
18.6 km
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Garage Sale Vintage - Denver
18.6 km
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Coco + Grace
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Two Birds One Stone, LLC
18.7 km
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The Oddemporium
18.7 km
Explore The Oddemporium in South Denver for a unique collection of antiques and vintage finds that celebrate history and creativity.
Fifty Two 80's A Totally Awesome Shop
18.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Squeeze
16.2 km
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The Nearby Bar
18.2 km
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Lady Jane
18.2 km
Experience the essence of Denver's nightlife at Lady Jane, a cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and stylish atmosphere.
Williams & Graham
18.2 km
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Postino LoHi
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Occidental
18.2 km
Discover the lively Occidental Bar in Denver's Highland neighborhood, featuring craft cocktails, local beers, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Recess Beer Garden
18.2 km
Discover Denver's vibrant beer culture at Recess Beer Garden, featuring a diverse selection of craft brews in a welcoming outdoor setting.
Golden Hour Wine Bar & Social Club
18.3 km
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Upstairs Circus LoDo
18.5 km
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The Wild
18.7 km
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Roosevelt
18.7 km
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Ghost Donkey – Denver
18.7 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Denver at Ghost Donkey, a hidden bar offering unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Front Porch
18.7 km
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Terminal Bar
18.7 km
Discover Terminal Bar, a lively Denver hotspot offering craft beers and creative cocktails in a historic train depot setting.
Cruise Room
18.7 km
Discover the elegance of The Cruise Room in Denver, where Art Deco charm meets expertly crafted cocktails for an unforgettable lounge experience.
