Waterton Canyon

Littleton
Drivetime
30 Min
FROM DENVER
DIFFICULTY
Easy
650 ft Gain
LENGTH
12.7 Mile
Out and Back
TAKE ME TO THE TRAILHEAD
NEW YORK WEATHER
WHAT YOU'LL SEE
Rapids/Creeks
Rapids/Creeks
Wildlife
Wildlife
Historical Sites
Historical Sites
THINGS TO DO

Follow the Platte into the Mountains!

Waterton Canyon is a fantastic adventure for so many reasons. It is so close to Denver. It has a large bighorn sheep population. It is flat and wide. It runs along the gorgeous Platte River. Picnic areas galore!

If you're looking for a quick easy escape, this is a great one. Actually a Denver Water road up to a dam at Strontia Springs Reservoir, Waterton Canyon is fantastic! It winds through a mountain valley, and the elevation change is barely noticeable.

There is a large herd of bighorn sheep that lives in the canyon. It is one of the best places in the front range to get a glimpse of Colorado's majestic state mammal! I've seen at least a few sheep on this trail along the way every time I've made it to the dam. There are no dogs allowed on this trail to protect the sheep population.

Don't be intimidated by the length of this trail. You don't have to make it all the way up to the dam at the top to have a fulfilling adventure! There are multiple picnic areas along the way to the top, all making a great spot for a picnic, a rest, or to turn around! Once you make it into the canyon, everything is beautiful. The further you go on the trail however, the less people you will see, and it is nice to have the place to yourself. Waterton and especially the first few miles can be extremely busy.

With its wide, flat trail, following a gorgeous mountain river, this is a perfect adventure for the whole family. Just don't expect this one to be super secluded. Pack a meal to enjoy along the way!

THINGS TO DO

Trail Running/ Bike Riding/ Family Friendly

Waterton Canyon is a wide dirt road. With a barely noticeable incline, it is a great place to take your family and young children on bikes. Trail running here is enjoyable as well.

Wildlife Viewing/ Photography

There is a large population of Bighorn Sheep that live in the canyon. It is a fantastic spot to catch a glimpse of the official mammal of Colorado! Listen for the knock of dueling ram's horns echo through the canyon!

Picnic

There are multiple picnic areas along the trail all named after native animals. A great spot to pull off for a meal!

Leave No Trace Bigfoot Sign
It is of the upmost importance that you always remember to take care of our precious outdoor spaces, and preserve them for future generations. Be as invisible as bigfoot and practice Leave No Trace Principles. For more info on how to be an environmentally conscious adventurer, click HERE!
GETTING THERE

There is a large parking lot, but as always, arrive early. This is a popular spot due to its proximity to Denver!

Mountain landscape

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