When I say canyon, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Let me guess… the Grand Canyon, right? If this was your answer and not one of Colorado’s many deep gorges, it is time to get out and explore, beginning with this hidden Centennial State park:
Located less than an hour from Denver is the must-see Castlewood Canyon State Park; a 2,621-acre oasis that is as historically significant as it is beautiful.
Flickr/Eric Lumsden
What makes this all-natural gem a must visit? For starters, it’s the dozens of animals who call the park home…
Flickr/Daniel Story
…varying ecosystems (including shrub and grasslands)…
Flickr/Eric Lumsden
…and scenic trails that range from 0.5 to 4 miles, making it an ideal place for all skill levels!
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Castlewood Canyon is not only pretty, but also historic, as its namesake Castlewood Canyon Dam burst in 1933, in turn sending a 15-foot wave of water all the way up to Denver, which resulted in a large flood.
Flickr/Chris Waits
In addition to all of the above, Castlewood Canyon State Park is home to — you guessed it — canyons!
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Can you imagine hiking around this? swoon
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Castlewood Canyon State Park is located at 2989 S State Hwy 83 in Franktown and is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.
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Explore even more of Colorado’s canyons by checking out A Blue Oasis Is Hiding In This Desolate Canyon In Colorado.
Flickr/Eric Lumsden
Flickr/Daniel Story
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Flickr/Chris Waits
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