The Best Route to Try: Driving from Applewood, Colorado to Castle Rock, Colorado

Are you planning a road trip or looking to explore scenic routes in Colorado? Look no further than the route from Applewood to Castle Rock. This route is an ideal choice for nature lovers, hikers, and history buffs. The drive covers a distance of approximately 36 miles and will take around 45 minutes without stops. However, we recommend taking the time to explore the various attractions that lie along the way.

In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the top places to see when driving from Applewood to Castle Rock. From breathtaking gardens to historic museums, this route has something for everyone. Buckle up and get ready for an adventure.

1. Lookout Mountain Nature Center

Kickstart your journey by visiting the Lookout Mountain Nature Center, situated in Golden, just 5 miles away from Applewood. The Lookout Mountain Nature Center provides an immersive experience that is perfect for nature enthusiasts. You'll find many interactive exhibits and activities that bring visitors closer to the flora and fauna of the area.

One of the main highlights of the center is the Living with Wildlife exhibit. The exhibit features a variety of live animals such as snakes, frogs, and turtles, giving visitors a chance to learn about them up close. There are also many hiking trails around the center, providing visitors with a chance to explore the diverse landscape of the Rocky Mountains.

2. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

After exploring the Lookout Mountain Nature Center, head on to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre situated in Morrison, just 9 miles from the Lookout Mountain Nature Center. The park is well known for its iconic red sandstone formations and is one of the most famous outdoor concert venues in the world, having hosted legendary musicians like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and U2.

Apart from concerts, Red Rocks Park is ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and cycling. There are over 15 miles of hiking trails, including a trail that leads to the Summit of Mount Morrison. If you prefer to take a more leisurely stroll, there are many picnic areas within the park where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views.

3. Dinosaur Ridge

If you're a history buff, the Dinosaur Ridge museum is a must-visit stopover. The museum is located just 13 miles from the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre and is home to a range of dinosaur fossils. Dinosaur Ridge was once a mudflat where dinosaurs like Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Apatosaurus roamed freely. The site was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1973, and today visitors can view over 300 dinosaur tracks and various remains of prehistoric creatures.

Follow the tour trails and enjoy exhibits that will give you an up-close look at the prehistoric past. Visitors can also take part in a guided tour of the site's many geological wonders, such as rare geologic sites and unique rock structures.

4. The Colorado Railroad Museum

The Colorado Railroad Museum is another attraction to add to your list when driving from Applewood to Castle Rock. The museum is located in Golden and is just 14 miles from Dinosaur Ridge. The Colorado Railroad Museum is an excellent choice for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The museum has an impressive collection of both steam and diesel locomotives, trains, and cabooses, with some dating back to the 1800s. Visitors can get a glimpse of the past with interactive exhibits, displays, and educational programs. There are also various interactive exhibits, such as the Hachling Gallery, that will spark the imagination of young visitors.

5. Castlewood Canyon State Park

The final stop on this drive is Castlewood Canyon State Park, located in Franktown, just 10 miles from the Colorado Railroad Museum. Castlewood Canyon State Park is an ideal spot for hikers, rock climbers, and bird-watching enthusiasts. The park is home to an impressive geological formation of sandstone cliffs, which are perfect for climbers.

The park has many hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, so visitors of all levels can find a trail that suits them. You will also have a chance to see wildlife such as coyotes, mule deer, and many different species of birds. The Cherry Creek runs through parts of the park and is an excellent spot for fishing and picnicking.

Conclusion

The drive from Applewood to Castle Rock is an exciting and scenic route that provides travelers with a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. With so many diverse attractions, it's easy to see why this is a favorite route for road trippers. From the Lookout Mountain Nature Center to Castlewood Canyon State Park, this route guarantees to leave you with many beautiful memories. So pack up your car, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure.