Lookout Mountain Park, Golden, CO
Golden, Colorado · 30 minutes from Denver · Free admission
📍 Local Notes from a Regular Hiker
Good to know: This guide was put together using public information and visitor reports. I’ve hiked these trails dozens of times over the years, so the tips here come from personal experience. But always double-check with the park office before driving out—conditions change, especially after storms.
⚠️ Before You Go (Critical Info)
Call ahead: +1 720-865-0900 (Denver Mountain Parks)
Check here: denvergov.org/parks-recreation
Weather matters: Mountain weather changes quickly. Summer afternoons bring thunderstorms. Winter roads can be icy.
Quick Park Details
📍 Getting There
Address: 987 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401
From Denver: I-70 West to Exit 253, north on CO-58 to Lookout Mountain Rd
Look for the signed entrance and historic stone buildings
🕒 Opening Hours
Standard Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
Seasonal Notice: Winter hours may vary (7 AM – 4 PM). The park may close for hazardous conditions.
🚗 Parking
Lot size: ~60 spaces
Reality: Fills up by 10 AM on sunny weekends
Tip: Arrive early or visit on weekdays. No overflow parking on narrow roads.
🎟️ Fees
Admission: Free (Denver Mountain Park)
Parking: Free in designated lot
Guided Tours: Available seasonally at Nature Center
Trail Guide (What I Actually Do)
Easy Lookout Mountain Trail (2 miles round trip)
My take: This is the main attraction. Moderate climb to the summit with spectacular views of Golden and Denver. The grave of Buffalo Bill Cody is near the summit. Best at sunrise for the eastern views.
Easy Nature Center Trail (1 mile loop)
My take: Great for families and beginners. Educational exhibits about local ecology. Flat, paved sections make it stroller-friendly. Best in spring when wildflowers bloom.
Moderate Mount Galbraith (2.4 miles round trip)
My take: Connects to Lookout Mountain via a connector trail. Less crowded, more challenging with better views. Watch for mountain bikers. Best in fall with golden aspen leaves.
Local Trail Strategy (From Regular Use)
- Combine trails for a 3-4 mile loop (my usual)
- Water: Bring your own—limited filling stations
- Footwear: Good hiking shoes recommended (some rocky sections)
What to Watch For
🦊 Wildlife
Mule deer: Common throughout the park
Golden eagles: Often seen soaring above the cliffs
Coyotes: Present but typically avoid trails
Birds: Varied thrushes, mountain chickadees, red-tailed hawks
🌸 Seasons
Spring: Wildflowers peak late May
Summer: Popular with hikers. Start early to avoid heat and crowds.
Fall: Spectacular golden aspen displays in October
Winter: Scenic snowy views. Dress for cold—windy at summit.
Photos from Regular Visitors
Disclaimer: These are user-submitted photos used for illustrative purposes. Copyright belongs to the original photographers. Seasonal appearance may vary based on weather and time of year.
Visitor Reviews & Public Feedback
Based on 8,000+ public reviews
“Very beautiful scenic view!!! Great place to see a few cities that have situated theirselves at and around these mountains and got to see Buffalo Bill’s final resting place.”
— Patty Parton
“Quick up and back to the summit. Great views! Morning light would be best for the views to the west, but a sunset would be great as well. There is a decent… right to the top.”
— AllTrails Reviewer
“Beautiful views! Unfortunately parts of the displays were closed for renovations while we were there. The grave site of Buffalo Bill is just a short walk from the parking lot and is wheelchair accessible.”
— Joe Hamner
More Visitor Feedback
- Access: “Great for families. The Nature Center Trail is perfect for kids and seniors with its gentle grade.”
- Timing: “Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to get parking. Weekday afternoons are quieter.”
- Preparation: “Bring a jacket even in summer—it gets windy at the summit. Water is essential.”
Common Questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No, it’s free. Lookout Mountain Park is a Denver Mountain Park with free admission.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, on a 6-foot leash. Dogs must be under control at all times. Bring waste bags—none provided.
Is there cell service?
Spotty at best. Verizon works best at the summit. AT&T and T-Mobile often have no service. Download maps offline.
Are there facilities?
Restrooms at the parking area. Limited picnic tables. The Nature Center has exhibits and sometimes has guided programs.
Is the park accessible?
The parking area and Nature Center are accessible. The main Lookout Mountain Trail has some steep sections. The Buffalo Bill grave site is accessible via a paved path.
Can I camp overnight?
No camping allowed. This is a day-use park only. Nearest camping is at Bear Creek Lake Park.
Are drones allowed?
No, drones are prohibited in Denver Mountain Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
What about wildlife safety?
Keep distance from wildlife, especially during spring fawning season. Coyotes may be seen—never feed animals.
Best time to visit?
Early morning year-round for best views and fewer crowds. Summer mornings before storms. Fall for colorful foliage. Winter for snowy scenery (check road conditions).
Is Buffalo Bill Cody really buried here?
Yes! Buffalo Bill Cody is buried on Lookout Mountain. His grave site is a short walk from the main parking lot and is well-maintained. The park’s visitor center has information about his life.
Map & Location Notes
Address: 987 Lookout Mountain Rd, Golden, CO 80401
GPS Coordinates: 39.7275° N, 105.2261° W
Local tip: The entrance is clearly marked. If you reach the Coors Brewery in Golden, you’ve gone too far east. The park is west of town up the mountain.
About This Guide
How we know what we know: This isn’t an official park page. It’s a directory entry based on publicly available information, visitor reports, and regular visits. The details here come from Denver Parks’ public resources and our own field checks.
Our Commitment to Accuracy
- We update this guide quarterly
- We note when information changes
- We link to official sources first
- We welcome corrections from park staff
Important: Park conditions change. Always verify current information with Denver Mountain Parks before visiting. We’re a directory site—park management is handled by the City and County of Denver.