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Outdoor Programs
Throughout the year, the Town's Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of outdoor programs for all ages. Get out and explore everything Colorado has to offer! From breathtaking views at 14,000 feet to a local hike near your own backyard, Colorado has something for everyone. Check out our seasonal outdoor adventure offerings.
Snowshoeing
Take a trek across the snow! We'll take a beautiful hike with snowshoes through the hills in nearby Jefferson County. These treks are moderately strenuous. Snowshoes not included, but rentals are available at a local shop.. Rentals are available.
- Ages: 14+
- Fee: $15 (fee does not include snowshoes; bring your own or available for rent at Castle Rock Bike and Ski)
- Day/time: Wednesdays, 8 a.m.
- Dates: Feb. 11 and March 4 (see website for locations)
- Location: Due to variable winter conditions, the location will be determined three days prior to the event. Departure from the MAC.
Wellness Walks
Get outdoors, get some vitamin D and learn a little about Castle Rock! Easy going hard surface (bike path) walks to get us through the winter months! In April, we'll shake off the winter slump with two Challenge Hill trips up the stairs in Castle Rock and Parker.
Hiking
We offer weekly Wednesday morning hikes and some Saturdays throughout the year. Take advantage of our great trails in Castle Rock and Douglas County. We take some regional hikes within 1.5 hour drives from Castle Rock. Most of these hikes are 1.5 to 3.5 miles with minimal elevation gain.
- Ages: 14+
- Fee: Free
- Day/time: Wednesday, 10 a.m.
Local Day Hikes
Local hikes are easy to moderate with minimal elevation gain and up to 5 miles at a 1 to 1.5 mile an hour pace. Most residents would agree, Castle Rock has some of the most beautiful trails and open space in Colorado. With 95 miles of trails and just under 6,000 acres of open space that define the region's most prominent features, you never know what kind of adventure will be waiting for you.
Local Day Hikes
We offer weekly morning hikes throughout the year. Take advantage of the great trails in and around Castle Rock and Douglas County. We will also hike to spots in Conifer and Palmer Lake, just about anything within about a 1-hour drive. Most of these hikes are designated as easy, and are 2.5 to 4 miles long with not much elevation gain. Moderate hikes may have some steep hills and will be 3.5 to 8 miles long.
Front Range Hikes
Designed for adults 18 yrs and older who wish to get into the outdoors with competent and experienced guides. Guides carry GPS in case of emergency and are Wilderness First Aid certified. Transportation is provided from the Miller Activity Complex (MAC) at the designated time. Participants are required to provide their own equipment, water, and snacks. Participants must be in good health and capable of moderate physical activity, meeting the distance and elevation requirement associated with each outing. Destination of outings may change due to weather, trail conditions, or other factors at the discretion of the program coordinator.
These are moderate to strenuous hikes with elevation gain of up to 850 feet and up to 7 miles at a 1 to 1.5 mile and hour pace. Travel time up to 1.5 hours from Castle Rock. Cost includes transportation to and from as well as experienced guides.
Basics for Low Impact Hiking
Hike a local natural area and discuss ways hikers can avoid or reduce negative impacts on nature and fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Learn the Leave No Trace principles, and the science behind them. Note: Instructor will notify participants of location prior to class.
Guided Forest Therapy
Research shows that visits to natural places have real health benefits. Experience the healing and wellness of Shinrin-Yoku: the practice of bathing the senses in nature. Take a quiet, contemplative walk that integrates gratitude, reflection and creativity. Note: Instructor will notify participants of location prior to class.
This Town Hikes!
Local Day Hikes
We offer weekly morning hikes throughout the year. Take advantage of the great trails in and around Castle Rock and Douglas County. We will also hike to spots in Conifer and Palmer Lake, just about anything within about a 1-hour drive. Most of these hikes are designated as easy, and are 2.5 to 4 miles long with not much elevation gain. Moderate hikes may have some steep hills and will be 3.5 to 8 miles long..
Front Range Hikes
Designed for adults 18 yrs and older who wish to get into the outdoors with competent and experienced guides. Guides carry GPS in case of emergency and are Wilderness First Aid certified. Transportation is provided from the MAC at the designated time. Participants are required to provide their own equipment, water, and snacks. Participants must be in good health and capable of moderate physical activity, meeting the distance and elevation requirement associated with each outing. Destination of outings may change due to weather, trail conditions, or other factors at the discretion of the program coordinator.
These are moderate to strenuous hikes with elevation gain of up to 850 feet and up to 7 miles at a 1 to 1.5 mile and hour pace. Travel time up to 1.5 hours from Castle Rock. Cost includes transportation to and from as well as experienced guides.
14er Hikes - Advanced
Guided day hike to some of Colorado's tallest mountains. No experience necessary. Be prepared for breathtaking views. Don't hesitate if this is your first one. We will help you through the hike and transportation is provided to the base of the mountains. All ages welcome.
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Marne Hansen
Outdor Coordinator