The Rock Park

The Rock Park is home to the butte Castle Rock is named for, a rhyolite-capped landmark that travelers have steered by since the days of the Old West. Its top stands at 6,590 feet, 370 feet above the trailhead, and the town took its name from it.

The hike

A maintained trail runs from the parking area to the base of the rock. The loop is 1.5 miles, short but steep, and the Town rates it difficult. Signs along it explain the rock’s geology and its place in the town’s history. Climbing the rock itself is prohibited to protect it; the views from the base reach a long way.

History

• Native American tribes used the rock as a landmark to navigate by for centuries
• Early settlers and railroad travelers found their bearings by it
• The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad was built through the area in 1871, and Castle Rock had its depot by 1875
• The town incorporated in 1881 and took its name from the rock

Geology

The rock is capped with rhyolite, a volcanic rock formed millions of years ago. Its makeup and the way it has eroded give the butte the shape that marks Castle Rock’s skyline.

Starlighting

Each November a large star is lit on top of the rock at the Starlighting celebration, which starts the holiday season. The star has been a tradition since 1936.