About
Waterton Canyon offers an easy out-and-back gravel trail that winds through a stunning rocky canyon beside the South Platte River. Visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, jogging, and walking while spotting local wildlife including deer and bighorn sheep.
The trail features low elevation gain, several restroom facilities, and picnic spots. Dogs are prohibited to protect the wildlife, creating a serene natural experience.
What To Expect:
- 🚶♂️ Easy, family-friendly out-and-back trail
- 🚴♀️ Gravel surface suited for biking and jogging
- 🦌 Frequent sightings of wildlife including deer and bighorn sheep
- 🚻 Multiple restrooms along the trail
- 🛑 No dogs allowed due to local wildlife protection
Important Information:
- – Parking can sometimes be difficult, free street and lot parking available
- – Swimming or body contact with water prohibited unless using waders for fishing
- – Stay on the right side of the road for traffic safety
📍 Local Insights
🚫 Wildlife Protection: Dogs are not permitted to preserve local wildlife habitat, so plan accordingly.
🚶♀️ Trailside Restrooms: There are well-maintained restrooms spaced along the route for convenience.
🅿️ Parking Notes: Parking is free but can be limited; early arrival is best on weekends.
🦌 Scenic Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for deer, bighorn sheep, and even bears along the route.
⏰ Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
👉 Best For
- •Family outings
- •Wildlife watchers
- •Hikers
- •Bikers
Location
S Platte River Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135Review Sentiment
Based on 16 Google reviews
"Waterton Canyon receives high praise for its well-maintained gravel trail and abundant wildlife sightings. Visitors appreciate the peaceful natural setting ideal for family outings and biking. Parking challenges and strict no-dog policies are widely noted but accepted due to conservation efforts."
What You'll Find
- •Gravel Trail
- •Out-and-Back Trail
- •Wildlife Viewing
- •River Access
- •Restrooms
- •Family Friendly
- •No Dogs Allowed
- •Picnicking
- •Biking
- •Jogging
- •Hiking
- •Walking
📆 Best Times to Visit
Morning hours before 9 AM and late afternoons provide lighter crowds; weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Early arrival recommended to find parking.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Castle Rock Crew · free weekly email
I send the new spots worth trying in Castle Rock every Tuesday morning. No crime, no politics, no noise.
DougCo Social Experiences
We don’t just cover Douglas County — we get people together in it.
Small-group dinners, a sunset supper club, and paint nights we host across the county. Come to one and you’re in.
See our experiences →✱ Similar
Colorado Trail / Indian Creek Trail Junction
Scenic hiking spot with wooded singletrack trails and views. A major junction in Sedalia, favored for moderate outdoor adventures and mountain biking.
Eagle Rock
Scenic hiking area featuring an easy loop trail and distinct rock formations near Sedalia. Popular for brief, rewarding outdoor excursions.
Sedalia Museum and Gardens
Explore Sedalia's history through engaging exhibits and serene native plant gardens open seasonally with volunteer guides.