Hiking – Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Please respond to the question about whether or not you are bringing a dog.

This is a relatively easy hike that All Trails rates as moderate due to the rocky surface on some sections of the trail. Poles can be useful, especially on the way back down. The trail starts with an uphill section, which we will take slowly to let ourselves adapt to altitude (and to give the dogs a chance to sniff). After about a mile it levels off and passes through aspen groves, which hopefully will be showing some color (which is supposed to start earlier this year due to drought and hot weather). Just past Fraser's Meadow we will stop at a location with rocks to sit on, in the shade, to have a snack/lunch. 

Dogs must be on a 6 ft leash and under your control at all times. No retractable leashes, please. Please review the CMC rules for doggie hikes https://www.cmcdenver.org/wp-content/uploads/Denver-Group-Dog-Hikes-Policy.pdf 

I am currently planning for us to meet at the Golden Gate State Park Visitors Center at 9:00 to make use of the bathrooms before driving to the trailhead, which is about 1/2 mile away. There is lots of parking at the trailhead, but no bathrooms. IF THE WEATHER IS PREDICTED TO BE HOT, the meeting time will move to 8:00. I will let you know a couple days before we go.