Roxborough's tilted red rocks are a protected National Natural Landmark

Roxborough State Park sits in the foothills near Littleton, in northwest Douglas County. Its big draw is rows of red sandstone slabs tilted up at a steep angle. This is the Fountain Formation, the same rock that makes Red Rocks and the Flatirons, laid down from older mountains that wore away long ago.

This scenery is special enough to earn real protection. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Roxborough carries several official honors, including National Natural Landmark, state natural area, and National Archaeological District status. Those designations are why the place still feels so wild, and why the rules run a little stricter than at many state parks.

Pets are not allowed anywhere in the park, including inside a vehicle. Bikes are also kept off the trails. Leave rocks, plants, and artifacts where they are; the protection applies to the small pieces as well as the large formations.

A valid park pass or daily entry is required. Cell signal is weak, prairie rattlesnakes live here, and staying on the trail protects both the visitor and the landscape. Mule deer and black bears also use the park.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife posts the current pass rules, hours, and trail or visitor-center closures on the Roxborough page.