The Martin G. Lockley Discovery Center at Dino Ridge
The Martin G. Lockley Discovery Center at Dino Ridge
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Matthews / Winters Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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Getting There
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.
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.
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.
Local tips
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Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as there are limited water sources within the park.
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Be aware of your surroundings and practice trail etiquette, as the park is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers.
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Check the Jefferson County Open Space website for any closures or park regulations before your visit.
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Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the heat, especially during summer, as the rocks can get hot.
Discover more about Matthews / Winters Park
Matthews/Winters Park is a 2,461-acre open space park in Golden, Colorado, offering a diverse landscape steeped in history and geological significance. Once the site of the 1860s settlement of Mount Vernon, the park now features trails that wind through meadows and past the remnants of this ghost town. Keep an eye out for the Mount Vernon cemetery, a reminder of the area's past.
The park's eastern section showcases the Dakota Hogback, a prominent geological feature with stunning red rock formations shaped over millions of years. The park is named after William Matthews and William Winters, who contributed land to Jefferson County Open Space, ensuring its preservation.
Visitors can enjoy over 12 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails range from easy to difficult, with elevations between 6,042 and 6,788 feet. Popular trails include the Village Walk, Village Ride, and Red Rocks Trail, which connects to the adjacent Red Rocks Park. The park also provides access to Dinosaur Ridge, known for its dinosaur tracks.
Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a leisurely bike ride, or a glimpse into Colorado's past, Matthews/Winters Park offers a refreshing escape into nature.
A brief summary to Matthews / Winters Park
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