Metzler Family Open Space Parking and Trailhead

Closed
$
Castle Rock
4.8
A nature preserve in Castle Rock featuring easy, well-maintained trails through ponderosa forest and oak ridges with scenic views and wildlife sightings.
$
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Metzler Family Open Space Parking and Trailhead

Castle Rock

$

Explore easy, scenic trails with wildlife and mountain views at Metzler Family Open Space in Castle Rock. Great for families and casual hikers.

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About
4.8
(
19
)

Metzler Family Open Space offers visitors a quiet escape with flat gravel trails suitable for all skill levels, including kids and strollers. Highlighted by diverse landscapes such as ponderosa forests, scrub oak ridges, and meadows, it provides ample birdwatching, wildlife views, and panoramic sights of nearby landmarks.

What to Expect:

    🌲 Gentle, well-marked gravel trails for hiking and running
    🐕 Dog-friendly with respectful visitors
    🦌 Wildlife viewing including deer and birds
    🛋️ Scenic rest spots along the way
    🅿️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Important Information:

    – Operating Hours: Daily 5 AM to 11 PM
    – No fees or reservations required
    – Trash bins can overflow; plan accordingly
    – Trails can be shared with mountain bikers; stay alert
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📍 Local Insights

🚶‍♂️ Beginner Friendly Trails: The gravel paths are flat and easy to navigate, perfect for families with kids or stroller users.

🌿 Diverse Habitats: Expect a mix of ponderosa pines, scrub oak, and meadows providing rich birding and wildlife sightings.

🛋️ Rest Spots: Multiple scenic rest areas offer pleasant break points along the trails.

🐐 Watch for Goats: Private lands nearby feature colorful goats, visible from some viewpoints.

⏰ Hours

Monday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

Tuesday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

Wednesday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

Thursday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

Friday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

Saturday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

Sunday: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

👉 Best For

Families, hikers, wildlife watchers, casual walkers
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Metzler Family Open Space Parking and Trailhead

838 E Allen St
,
Castle Rock
,
CO
80108

Open in Google Maps

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise the area's peaceful trails, scenic views of the Rockies and landmarks, and its suitability for families and beginners. The mix of wildlife and natural beauty receives high marks, though several note the need for more frequent trash pickup.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

Mountain Stats

The Selection

Accommodations

Course Stats

Angler’s Offerings

What You'll Find

Gentle Gravel Trails; Ponderosa Forest; Scrub Oak Ridges; Meadows; Wildlife Viewing; Birding; Dog-Friendly Areas; Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot; Rest Areas; Scenic Views

📆 Best Times to Visit

Visit morning to early afternoon for lighter crowds; late mornings on weekends see peak parking. Midweek offers quieter trails.
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