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Centennial Cone Park West Trailhead

Explore scenic trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views at this near-backcountry park just west of Golden, Colorado.

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Centennial Cone Park West Trailhead provides access to a near-backcountry experience just west of Golden, Colorado. The park boasts a 12-mile trail loop with views of Clear Creek Canyon and opportunities for wildlife sightings, including elk. It's a popular destination for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

A brief summary to Centennial Cone Park West Trailhead

  • Monday 5 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-7 pm
  • Friday 5 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Jefferson County Open Space website for the most up-to-date information on trail closures and the alternating use schedule.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as the trails can be exposed and challenging.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking or biking, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid the weekend crowds and alternating use restrictions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Golden, head west on US 6/Clear Creek Canyon Road for approximately 11.5 miles until the junction with HWY 119. Continue straight on HWY 119 for approximately.3 miles, then turn right onto Douglas Mountain Road. Douglas Mountain Road turns into Centennial Cone Road; follow Centennial Cone Road for another.5 miles until you reach the trailhead. Parking is free, but limited, and can fill up quickly on weekends.

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Discover more about Centennial Cone Park West Trailhead

Centennial Cone Park West Trailhead is a popular starting point for exploring the expansive Centennial Cone Park, located a short drive west of Golden, Colorado. The park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a natural setting with over 16 miles of trails. The trails wind through rolling hills, meadows, and forests, providing diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Centennial Cone Park is known for its sweeping views of Clear Creek Canyon and the surrounding landscape. It's also a prime location for spotting wildlife, including elk, deer, and various bird species. The park's trails cater to a range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. To manage trail usage, weekends have an alternating schedule: hikers and horseback riders are allowed on odd-numbered dates, while bikers are permitted on even-numbered dates. Historically, the area was used by Arapaho Indians as a passage between the mountains and plains, with the Travois Trail still visible today. Later, homesteaders ranched livestock here, and remnants of an old mine can be found within the park. Jefferson County acquired the land in 1999 and opened the park to the public in 2005. Today, Centennial Cone Park is managed as a natural area to protect its diverse ecosystem and provide recreational opportunities for visitors. Note that the park is closed December 1 through January 31 annually for late rifle deer and elk hunting season.

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