Apex Park

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This loop rewards you with great views of the surrounding foothills, downtown Golden, and the greater Denver area. Be ready for a steady climb at the beginning and some short rocky sections, but it is well worth the effort!

This is a popular trail. Along the way, you'll likely encounter multiple other runners along with hikers and many mountain bikers so be courteous. The trail is runnable with some rocky terrain consistent with other front range trails, although less rocky than most.

The run starts on the Apex Trail which is the main trail connecting many of the Apex Park trails. Start on the east (bottom) off of the Heritage Park parking lot where there is plenty of parking located just outside of downtown Golden. The Apex Trail is a steep ascent in a rugged valley, but as you are only on the trail for a short section before turning onto Argos Trail, just take it as a warmup for the rest of the run.

Bearing right shortly after the beginning of Apex Trail will bring you to Argos Trail which is a short, easy trail that winds up to its endpoint and intersection with Pick N' Sledge. It is a steady climb, but not steep.

Continue right on Pick N' Sledge which offers a switchback-filled route through the trees. This trail has great views of Golden and the greater Denver area as you ascend, but those views disappear quickly as you get deeper into the park. Overall, it's a great trail; it is a bit rocky, but not so bad that you can't look up and take in the views.

Near the end of Pick N' Sledge, take a right onto Grubstake Loop to continue your tour through Apex Park. This trail provides some easy running through open spaces and a few forested areas. There are a series of switchbacks that are just moderate enough for enjoyable running or hiking for those who choose. Enjoy the descent on this trail until it intersects with Pick N' Sledge where you can retrace your steps down Pick N' Sledge, Argos Trail, and Apex Trail back to the trailhead.