From hiking scenic trails with spectacular views to sampling local cuisine and cultural attractions, Castle Pines invites visitors to experience the best of Colorado.
In This Article
TL;DR
- Castle Pines is located just south of Denver, offering easy access to outdoor recreation and panoramic views of mountain scenery.
- The area offers year-round activities like hiking, biking, golf, and winter sports, as well as festivals, shopping, dining, and more.
- Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to vacation home rentals to suit different budgets and preferences.
Destination Overview
Castle Pines resides mere minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Denver metro area and Denver Tech Center, yet it feels worlds away. The community sits at the edge of Pike National Forest, surrounded by dramatic red rock formations, pine-dotted hillsides, and panoramic mountain vistas.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Castle Pines for its wealth of trails, perfect for hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months. When winter arrives, downhill and cross-country skiing take center stage at nearby Rocky Mountain resorts. Golf is also popular at The Castle Pines Golf Club and other championship courses in the surrounding area.
Beyond outdoor recreation, Castle Pines delivers a taste of the Old West with its rustic architecture and frontier spirit. Village shops, galleries, eateries, and other amenities line the town’s main street. At the same time, community events like summer concerts and fall festivals invite visitors to mingle with locals in the city’s parks.
Local Experiences and Culture
Castle Pines exudes small-town charm. Meander along boutique-lined streets, chat with shop owners, and soak up the laidback vibe. On Saturday mornings, take advantage of the farmers market, where you can sample juicy Palisade peaches, earthy cheeses, and other fresh regional fare.
For a bit of history, stop by the Castle Pines Museum to glimpse settler artifacts and Native American tools. Just up the road, in a vast open space, lies the ruins of a late 1800s homestead, perfect for snapping photos. Cultural events like pioneer reenactments and chili cook-offs celebrate the area’s storied past.
To taste Castle Pines’ artistic side, browse the local galleries showcasing Colorado landscape paintings, metal sculptures, and other crafts. You may even spot an artist painting en plein air as inspiration strikes.
Outdoor Adventures
Castle Pines delivers no shortage of ways to challenge your stamina or simply soak up the great outdoors. The area links to over 200 miles of multi-use trails ideal for hiking and mountain biking. Wind through pine forests and climb to rocky vistas, revealing Denver’s skyline shimmering in the distance.
For an iconic Colorado drive, take the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. The 23-mile route winds past mountain reservoirs and through aspens and evergreens before cresting at nearly 11,700 feet. Be sure to stop at the summit for staggering views of the Collegiate Peaks.
Just 10 miles west of Castle Pines lies the Pike National Forest, with hundreds of miles of trails ripe for exploration. Challenge yourself to summit 14,000-foot giants or wander through wildflower-strewn meadows rich with wildlife. Know your limits and prepare properly for extreme alpine conditions.
Seasonal Attractions
Castle Pines transforms with the seasons, making it a spectacular destination all year long. As summer fades to fall, the hillsides erupt in a blaze of golden aspens, and the town celebrates with festivals.
The Castle Pines Harvest Festival in early October features food vendors, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and the annual chili cook-off. Later in the month, I’m Your Huckleberry Days kicks off with a carnival, live music, and more.
When winter storms blanket the Rockies in snow, ski buffs take to the slopes at Elk Ridge Ski Area, just 30 minutes away. Families will love tubing and sledding at Ruby Hill Adventure Park, an affordable alternative to resorts. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer quieter ways to admire the peaceful winter wonderland.
Family-Friendly Offerings
From hiking adventures to hands-on museums, Castle Pines entices families looking to unplug in nature without sacrificing fun. Start at Elk Ridge Park, stretching across 150 acres of wooded open space perfect for wildlife spotting. Let the kids’ imaginations run wild at the Castle Pines Village Splash Pad while parents sample craft beers at nearby breweries.
Discover Castle Pines’ wild side at the Wildlife Experience Museum with dioramas depicting animals in their natural habitats. Budding paleontologists will dig the Dinosaur Ridge Visitor Center where you can view real dinosaur tracks and fossils. Top off the day with a ride on the historic Daniels Park Zipline for breathtaking views.
Local Gastronomy
The Rocky Mountain West infuses Castle Pines’ food scene with regional flavors transformed into tasty bites. For an upscale take on traditional bar bites, head to the Great Divide Brewing Company and Roadhouse.
Those with a sweet tooth must try Sugar Spoon Candies. Their fudge, crafted the old-fashioned way in copper kettles, comes in tempting flavors like Rocky Road and salted caramel. Cool off with the creamiest ice cream around at Sweet Cow, with flavors changing daily.
Après-adventure calls for local brews at School House Kitchen and Libations pouring pints like the hoppy Castle Pines IPA. Their elevated pub grub shines with dishes like bison meatloaf and Rocky Mountain trout. Families may opt to stay at the new Great Wolf Lodge, debuting an indoor water park, family suites, and kids’ activities.
For affordable comfort, book a stay at the Hampton Inn and Suites Castle Rock. Its recently renovated rooms boast views of Pikes Peak, and the hotel offers free breakfast to fuel your adventures.
Those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat should consider reserving a vacation rental. Choose from secluded log homes with fireplaces and hot tubs to modern dwellings boasting floor-to-ceiling windows framing inspiring vistas.
Planning Your Visit
Castle Pines shines year-round, but fall and winter shouldn’t be missed. Late September through October promises golden aspens and mild temps perfect for hiking and biking. By November, snow dusts the landscape, signaling the start of ski season.
The best way to navigate the area is by car. Castle Pines is just 18 miles south of Denver and easily accessible from the city or Denver International Airport. Consider renting an SUV to travel mountain roads to trailheads and attractions.
Create an itinerary mixing outdoor adventures with cultural sights and dining. Start with a hike through Pike National Fores, followed by lunch on the patio at School House Kitchen. After, learn about dinosaurs at Dinosaur Ridge before capping off the night stargazing from your cabin deck. With so much to experience, you’ll be planning your next trip before you depart.
FAQ
What is there to do in Castle Pines in the winter?
In winter, popular activities include downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, snowmobiling, winter festivals, and more. Nearby ski resorts offer slopes for all abilities.
When is the best time to visit Castle Pines?
Castle Pines offers seasonal activities year-round, but fall and winter are exceptionally beautiful. September-October brings golden aspens, while November starts ski season. Summer offers warm weather hiking and biking.
What is the easiest way to get around Castle Pines?
Having a car is the most convenient way to explore Castle Pines and access trailheads. Consider renting an SUV to travel mountain roads. Free shuttles run between the Outlets at Castle Rock and downtown.
Where should I stay when visiting Castle Pines?
Accommodations include hotels like the Hampton Inn and Suites, resorts like the new Great Wolf Lodge, and vacation rentals ranging from cabins to luxury homes. Choose based on your budget and preferences.
What is there to do with kids at Castle Pines?
Top family-friendly activities include Elk Ridge Park, Castle Pines Village Splash Pad, Wildlife Experience Museum, Dinosaur Ridge Visitor Center, Daniels Park Zipline, tubing at Ruby Hill, and more.
