Castle Ruins Trail

Route Description for Castle Ruins Trail

The Castle Ruins Trail is an awesome day-hike near Denver Colorado. Ascend the grassy meadowlands before ascending the pine forests up to the castle ruins. What’s left of the Mount Falcon Castle are the hollow remnants of the once striking castle that a man by the name of John Walker has built. Now a popular hiking trail, tourists and locals alike flock to the historical ruins that present epic vistas of the Red Rocks Amphitheatres and the encompassing Front Range Foothills. Note this path travels through the wilderness, so you will likely observe wildlife. Keep an ear and eye out for rattlesnakes and if you notice any animals along your adventure, make sure to give them plenty of room.

When you are ready to head out on your adventure, track the Castle Trail west through the meadowlands. As you walk, you will be awarded an up-close and personal view of Mount Falcon looming above. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection with the Turkey Trot Trail, turn left here, maintaining along the Castle Trail. Ascend the path as it weaves you between tree shade and exposed terrain up to the summit. Soon the route will deliver you to the ruins. Admire the sight of the remaining walls and notice views of the Red Rocks Park below. Continue hiking the Castle Trail to the next junction, where you will turn left onto the Meadow Trail.

Track southeast along the path before merging onto the Tower Trail, which will guide you around the summit of Mount Falcon. Revel in the vistas of the Front Range Foothills and the Denver cityscape before merging back onto the Meadow Trail to reconnect with the Castle Trail. From here, turn right, retracing your steps down the mountain. At the junction with the Turkey Trot Trail, veer left onto the Turkey Trot Path and hike the secluded trail for a change of pace. Track the mostly forested, and foot-traffic-only trail all the way back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.