Lake Gulch / Inner Canyon
Located in eastern Douglas County, Castlewood Canyon is an unexpected surprise in the rolling plains of the region. Where Cherry Creek carved an interesting fissure in the prairie, ponderosa pines and Douglas fir dominate Castlewood Canyon. Lake Gulch/Inner Canyon loop offers the wildflower seeker more than 50 species throughout a variety of ecosystems from sunny riparian to deep-shaded Douglas fir, and from scrub oak to shallow-soiled shelf rock. It takes the hiker down a warm southern exposure to arrive at Cherry Creek, then turns east along the stream until it recrosses and rises quickly to complete the loop. A visitor center has a labeled native plant garden, a fine slide show, and a helpful staff. A broad wheelchair-friendly concrete walk called Canyon View Nature Trail extends for 0.8 mile. Wildflower alert: Spring flowers, beginning with orange paintbrush.
Driving Directions
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Directions to: Lake Gulch / Inner Canyon
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Denver |
| Length | 2 mi |
| Skill Level | Easy |
| Season | Bloom is mid-May to July |
| Top Elevation | 6,600 ft |
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