Golden Gate Canyon State Park, State park with mountain trails in Golden, Colorado, US.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a nature reserve in western Colorado with more than 50 kilometers of hiking paths through valleys, forests, and mountain meadows at different elevations. The terrain covers nearly 5000 hectares between gentle hills and steep slopes with several creeks flowing through the landscape.
Hunters roamed these mountains in search of game before prospectors arrived in 1859 and established settlements during the gold rush. Later the land was protected and turned into a public park open to all visitors.
Signs along the trails show animal tracks from creatures that live in the forests and meadows. These markers help hikers learn to recognize the footprints of wild residents and read the landscape more closely.
The visitor center opens Tuesday through Sunday and provides maps, while nine self-service stations around the park handle entrance fees. Trails cross different elevations, so bring layered clothing and water.
From Panorama Point lookout the view extends more than 100 miles (160 kilometers) to the Continental Divide of the Rocky Mountains. On clear days you can see peaks and valleys stretching to the horizon.
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