Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Lakewood / Morrison / Golden
view website18300 W. Alameda Parkway
Morrison, CO 80465
303-697-4939
Good-for-Kids Rating
Park
Amphitheater
Hiking
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Description
The crown jewel of Denver's park system, Red Rocks is a natural open-air amphitheatre famous for its red sandstone rock formations, two of which are mammoth monoliths that help create the park's renowned acoustic experience. You don't need concert tickets to visit Red Rocks, located 15 miles west of Denver in Morrison. The visitors' center offers free one-hour tours (including a "backstage pass" where guests can sing or play an instrument on stage), and you can also hike the 1.4-mile Trading Post Loop Trail on your own. $20 per person gets you lunch at the venue's Ship Rock Grill with a tour, or there's a picnic shelter at the end of a scenic loop road if you decide to bring your own.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Keep kids close on the Trading Post Loop trail, as there are steep drop-offs and road crossings as you walk.
School-Age Kids: Remind school age kids that rock climbing and collecting are prohibited at Red Rocks, and also not to disturb or gather plants or flowers.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Sure, it might be just another walk, but the views are jaw-dropping and teens will enjoy seeing which performers have played the venue in an exhibit at the Visitor Center.
Planning Notes
- The hiking trail is unfit for the unfit. Red Rocks is at an elevation above 6,000 feet, so if you're not used to a high altitude, it might be tough.
- Park at the Trading Post if you plan to hike. Most school-age kids can hike a mile, even over rocky and steep terrain, so try this hike, located near the Trading Post. There are several other little trails around the park; ask a guide at the visitors center for suggestions.
- Park at the "top circle." If you plan to take a tour first, use this parking lot to avoid a steep walk.
- Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Dress in layers in case temperatures suddenly rise or fall.
- Wear hats and sunscreen. Sun exposure at higher altitudes is more intense.
- Bring your camera. The scenery here is unique, colorful, and awe-inspiring and you'll want to remember it.
Just the Facts
Hours: Open 5 a.m.-11 p.m. daily (with closures during performances) Visitors Center, May to September: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: 2 to 4 hours
What's Nearby?
- Dinosaur Ridge 16831 W Alameda Pkwy
Morrison, CO 80465
303-697-3466 39.687221944444445 -105.1924588888889 - Heritage Square Music Hall 18301 W. Colfax Ave
Golden, CO 80401
303-279-7800 39.7139625 -105.21245416666666




