Pano from the top looking toward Denver on a smoggy day
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Apex Park Chimney Gulch

4.7
·583 reviews·Golden, United States

Explore winding trails through forests and streams, offering challenging grades and hilly views for hikers and bikers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings (Odd Days)

Best for hikers, fewer bikers

CrowdMedium
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Pano from the top looking toward Denver on a smoggy day

Apex Park Chimney Gulch

Best Time

Mornings (Odd Days)

Best for hikers, fewer bikers

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore winding trails through forests and streams, offering challenging grades and hilly views for hikers and bikers.

4.7
(583 reviews)

"Great open space with well-maintained trails, but always check signs for hiker/biker days!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Respect Trail Rules

Check signs for hiker/biker day designations. Hikers on odd days, bikers on even days. Safety first! :warning:

Hydration is Crucial

Bring plenty of water! No water sources on trails, only restrooms at the parking lot. :water_wave:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enchanted Forest Trail

Enchanted Forest Trail

Apex Park Chimney Gulch

Winding through lush trees, this trail offers a cooler, shaded escape with beautiful open fields and scenic views.

Challenging Gradients

Challenging Gradients

Various trails

Experience steep climbs and descents that offer a good workout and reward with panoramic views of the hilly landscape.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Open spaces

Keep an eye out for local wildlife amidst the green fields and forests; sightings are common and add to the natural experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Etiquette is Key

Apex Park Chimney Gulch has designated trails for hikers and bikers on specific days. Always check the signs before you go to avoid conflicts and ensure a safe experience for everyone. Respecting these rules is crucial for enjoying the park.

Weather Preparedness

Colorado mountain weather can change rapidly. Afternoon storms are common in summer, bringing potential for rain, hail, and lightning. Be prepared with layers and check forecasts before heading out.

Best Times

When
Mornings (Odd Days)
Why
Best for hikers, fewer bikers
Crowd
Medium
When
Mornings (Even Days)
Why
Ideal for mountain bikers
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Cooler temps, but watch for storms
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

The view of Denver from Apex Park in Golden. The girls loved it!

Respect Trail Rules

Check signs for hiker/biker day designations. Hikers on odd days, bikers on even days. Safety first! :warning:

Hydration is Crucial

Bring plenty of water! No water sources on trails, only restrooms at the parking lot. :water_wave:

reddit.com

Trails around Golden, CO

reddit.com

Trails near Golden, CO?

Dress in Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be ready for sun, wind, and potential afternoon showers. :cloud:

Trail Variety

Explore different paths like Apex and Enchanted Forest for varied scenery and difficulty. :hiking_boot:

reddit.com

Golden, Colorado MTB parks with good flow trails in September?

Tips

from all over the internet

Respect Trail Rules

Check signs for hiker/biker day designations. Hikers on odd days, bikers on even days. Safety first! :warning:

Hydration is Crucial

Bring plenty of water! No water sources on trails, only restrooms at the parking lot. :water_wave:

Dress in Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be ready for sun, wind, and potential afternoon showers. :cloud:

Trail Variety

Explore different paths like Apex and Enchanted Forest for varied scenery and difficulty. :hiking_boot:

Wildlife Awareness

Enjoy spotting local fauna, but maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings. :deer:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(583 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Apex Park Chimney Gulch for its beautiful open spaces, well-maintained trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Enchanted Forest trail is a standout. However, the park can get crowded, and strict adherence to hiker/biker day designations is crucial for a positive experience.

"Great open space area setup by Jefferson County.

This park is not your normal neighborhood park, it's an open space park. So it's great for hike and mountain bikes, and a portion of the trail could be challenged.

Section of the trail is designed for specific use by even or odd day (even for bike and specific direction, while odd day for hiker only in both directions)

It is popular during summer, and trails are not very wide, so it could be a bit overwhelming with multiple bikers and joggers passing.

Watch out weather like any mountain in the Colorado. The Storm cloud can passing through in the afternoon and bring shower, hail, and/or lighting"

s.y Ta

"Please please please for the love of all that is holy, read the signs. Certain trails here are designated for bikes/hikers on certain days. If you hike up enchanted forest/magic mountain on an EVEN CALENDER DAY, expect lots of angry mountain bikers. If you can't read the posted signs or choose to ignore them, you put yourself and others in danger."

Tyler Candler

"I loved this hike!! The trails address very well maintained and with easy to follow signs. There are several different tails to follow with lots of opportunity to see wildlife. There is a lovely brook and some beautiful forest. I absolutely loved the enchanted forest! It opens into grassy fields and beautiful views. The bikers were friendly and all followed the posted rules for riding specific directions for odd and even days of the week. Theis is a good hike, some steep parts, nothing technical. I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring the area."

Jessica Dieters

What People Like

Beautiful open space
Enchanted Forest trail
Wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Trail designation rules

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Apex Park Chimney Gulch is located in Golden, Colorado. It's accessible by car, with parking available at the trailhead. Many visitors drive from Denver and surrounding areas. Reddit

Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of Apex Park Chimney Gulch are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services. Reddit

The trails are generally well-maintained and signed. Using a trail map or a GPS app on your phone can be helpful for exploring different routes. Reddit

Parking at Apex Park Chimney Gulch is typically free, as it's an open space managed by Jefferson County. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary signage regarding fees. Reddit

Apex Park Chimney Gulch is part of a larger network of open spaces in the foothills. While direct trail connections to all adjacent parks might not exist, it's a great starting point for exploring the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Apex Park Chimney Gulch is a public open space and does not require tickets for entry. Access is free for all visitors. Reddit

As an open space park, Apex Park Chimney Gulch is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. Specific hours may vary, so it's best to check local advisories if you plan a very early or late visit. Reddit

Yes, Apex Park Chimney Gulch is typically open year-round. However, trail conditions can vary significantly with seasons, especially in winter due to snow and ice. Reddit

The main restriction is the designated trail use on odd and even days for hikers and bikers, respectively. Always adhere to posted signage to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Reddit

Apex Park Chimney Gulch does not typically require reservations or permits for casual visits. For larger organized events, you would need to contact Jefferson County Open Space for specific regulations. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Enchanted Forest trail is highly recommended for its beauty and shade. Many hikers also enjoy combining sections of Apex Trail and Magic Mountain for varied terrain. Remember odd days are best for hikers. Reddit

Yes, Apex Park Chimney Gulch offers trails suitable for mountain biking, particularly on even calendar days when bikers have designated routes. Trails can be rocky and have steep sections. Reddit

Expect a mix of forested areas, streams, open grassy fields, and hilly terrain offering scenic views. The Enchanted Forest section is particularly picturesque. Reddit

The park can be quite popular, especially during summer and on weekends. Mornings tend to be less crowded than midday. Trail width can make it feel busy with multiple users. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms located in the parking lot at the trailhead. These are the only facilities available on the trails. Reddit

🎫 💧 Nature & Wildlife

Visitors often report seeing various wildlife, including deer and birds. The open fields and forested areas provide habitat for local fauna. Reddit

Yes, a lovely brook or creek follows along some of the trails, adding to the natural ambiance of the park. Reddit

Wildflowers are abundant in the spring and early summer, typically from May through July, when the park is lush and green. Reddit

With its diverse habitats including forests and open fields, Apex Park Chimney Gulch is a good location for birdwatching. Reddit

While wildlife sightings are common, it's important to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas with dense vegetation. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Apex Park Chimney Gulch offers a great outdoor adventure for families, with trails that provide opportunities for exploration and wildlife spotting. The Enchanted Forest Trail is particularly family-friendly, offering shade and opening into scenic fields. Reddit

When visiting with children, it's essential to check the day's designation (odd for hikers, even for bikers) to ensure a safer experience. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited to the parking lot. The varied terrain can be a fun challenge for older kids, while younger ones might enjoy shorter loops closer to the trailhead. Always supervise children closely and be mindful of other park users.

🚴 Mountain Bikers

For mountain bikers, Apex Park Chimney Gulch offers a rewarding experience with its challenging gradients and flowy sections, especially on even calendar days. The park is known for its trails that provide a good workout and scenic descents. Reddit

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the trail designations for even days to maximize your riding time and ensure you're on the designated bike paths. Trails can be rocky, so ensure your bike is in good condition and you have appropriate safety gear. Many bikers appreciate the well-maintained paths and the opportunity to explore different routes within the park.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Trail Designations

Apex Park Chimney Gulch employs a unique system for trail usage, dividing days into 'odd' and 'even' for hikers and mountain bikers. On odd-numbered days, trails are primarily designated for hikers, allowing them to travel in both directions. Conversely, on even-numbered days, specific trails are designated for mountain bikers, often with a one-way direction to optimize flow and safety. Reddit

It is crucial for visitors to pay close attention to the posted signs at trailheads and intersections. Ignoring these designations can lead to dangerous encounters between hikers and bikers, causing frustration and potential accidents. The community strongly emphasizes respecting these rules for a harmonious park experience. Reddit

This system aims to provide dedicated time and space for each activity, enhancing the experience for both hikers seeking a peaceful walk and bikers looking for a challenging ride. Always double-check the calendar day before you set out to ensure you are using the trails appropriately.

Navigating the Terrain and Trails

The trails at Apex Park Chimney Gulch offer a varied and engaging experience, characterized by steep grades and hilly views. While not overly technical, some sections present a good challenge, particularly the initial climbs which can be rocky. Reddit

Popular routes include the Apex Trail and the Enchanted Forest Trail. The Enchanted Forest is noted for being cooler and more shaded due to its dense tree cover, opening up into beautiful grassy fields. Reddit Many visitors enjoy creating loops by combining different trails, such as taking Apex to Enchanted Forest and looping back. This allows for a diverse exploration of the park's landscapes.

For those seeking a more strenuous workout, the steeper sections provide an excellent opportunity. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, like sturdy hiking boots or trail running shoes, to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably and safely. Reddit

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