Raccoon Trail – Golden Gate Canyon Sp

Distance: 4.3 miles Elevation Gain: 800 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: dirt Activity: Hiking Best Season: year-round Typical Time: 2-3 hours Fee: $10/vehicle Dogs: True Permit: False

Raccoon Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Golden Gate Canyon State Park, a 4.3-mile loop that climbs 800 feet to Panorama Point, one of the finest viewpoints in the Colorado Front Range. On clear days the panorama from this elevated summit takes in a remarkable sweep of the Continental Divide from Longs Peak in the north to Pikes Peak in the south — a vista that encompasses much of Colorado's highest terrain in a single glance.

The trail winds through the diverse ecosystems that make Golden Gate Canyon such a botanically rich park, passing through meadows, aspen groves, and dense spruce-fir forest as it climbs to the viewpoint. Wildflowers are exceptional from June through August, and autumn brings brilliant aspen color that draws photographers from across the Front Range. The descent follows a different route through the canyon namesake terrain, completing a satisfying loop that samples the park's varied landscape. Golden Gate Canyon sees heavy use in autumn when fall color peaks, so weekday visits are recommended during September and October. Leashed dogs are welcome. The $10 per vehicle entrance fee applies year-round at the staffed entrance station.