Named after the abundance of trees near the original town site, the city of Woodland Park is a wonderful place filled with breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and much more. The quaint mountain town has its share of serene sites and attractions, but also has a few surprising and exhilarating places that will thrill the entire family. You’ll be able to explore the beauty and charm of Woodland Park at places such as Manitou Park Lake, the Red Rocks Group Campground, and Rainbow Falls Historic Site. Woodland Park, Colorado is a 2 hour trip from Denver 2 hr 5 min ( 89 miles via I-25 S).
Go on a wolf walk with Colorado Wolf Adventures
Colorado Wolf Adventures was started by the former vice president of the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center. It is a wonderful place for people to learn all about wolves, one of the most misunderstood predators in the world. The programs are designed for visitors of all ages, from preschoolers to senior citizens, and will teach you about these wild animals, how you can coexist with them, and why they’re important to the ecosystem. They have several offsite activities you can participate in like photoshoots with wolves and wolf walks, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The walk lasts about an hour into the Pikes Peak Region of Colorado and you’ll leave with at least 200 photos of your adventure.
Address: Woodland Park, CO, Phone: 707-290-5282
Visit the fossil museum at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
The Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center was established in 2004 and has over 100,000 visitors of all ages each year. The fossil museum has several exhibits dedicated to prehistoric fish, marine reptiles, mammals, pterosaurs, and dinosaurs. Some of their most amazing artifacts include a triceratops prorus skull and of Stellar’s sea cow which was a large herbivorous marine animal that is now extinct. Join one of the museum’s many interactive tours and get hands-on while learning about the casting and molding of fossils at their fossil preparation lab. Other aspects also include a large gift shop where you can leave with a number of unique gifts and souvenirs.
Address: 201 South Fairview Street, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Fish in Manitou Park Lake
A part of the Pike National Forest, Manitou Park Lake has been a popular tourist attraction since the 1800s. The reservoir is the centerpiece of the park and is a famed gathering spot for anglers of all skill levels as it’s constantly stocked with rainbow trout. Since the lake is nestled into a hollow, there’s very little wind, making it a calm and peaceful place to enjoy flat-water paddling. Bird watchers can enjoy paddling out with binoculars and seeing red-tail hawks, redwing blackbirds, and the occasional bald eagles. Afterwards, head out on the surrounding Centennial Trail to enjoy their epic hiking and biking trail.
Take a tour with Great Outdoors Adventures
Great Outdoors Adventures is an ATV rental service that lets you explore Woodland Park and its surroundings in one of the most adventurous ways possible. You can rent a 2-seat or 4-seat heated UTV and take yourself on a ride-along tour or enjoy a guided ride through the many trails in Pike National Forest. The ATVs come equipped with a GPS tablet loaded with the trail map to make it easy for first-timers to navigate. It's also one of the best places to rent a fat tire e-bike, which is perfect for exploring the gorgeous outdoors of Woodland Park no matter if the grounds are covered in snow or mud.
Address: 19251 E US24, Woodland Park, CO 80863, Phone: 719-686-6816
Play on the Shining Mountain Golf Course
Recognized as one of Woodland Park’s best public gathering place, the Shining Mountain Golf Course is open to the residents and visitors of the area seasonally. It is the first permanent mountain disc golf/ ball golf course in the state of Colorado. There are three different golf courses to choose from: Serenity Pines, the Whispering Pines Disc Golf Course, and the “Beast” Disc Golf Course. Other aspects of the course include the Shining Mountain Bar & Restaurant, a private event center, and a Pro Shop filled with everything you’ll need for an amazing time out on the green.
Address: 100 Shining Mountain Lane, Woodland Park, CO 80863, Phone: 719-687-7587
Have a picnic at the Red Rocks Group Campground
The Red Rocks Group Campground is a rustic group camping site situated amidst a lush ponderosa pine forest. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a serene place to get away to, no matter if you’re in the mood for day camping or staying there overnight. It’s usually open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October weather permitting. The group camping site is operated by the Rocky Mountain Recreation Company and includes amenities such as double vault restrooms and potable water for drinking. Please note that pets are allowed on to the campgrounds but must be leashed at all times.
Address: Red Rocks Campground Road, Woodland Park, CO 80863, Phone: 719-636-1602
Grab a sweet treat at Joanie's Bakery & Delicatessen
Joanie's Bakery & Delicatessen is a wonderful little breakfast and lunch spot in the heart of Woodland Park. Their grilled sandwiches are out of this world and attract patrons from far and wide, especially those who are in the mood for a delicious, no-nonsense meal. All of the food served is made in-house, from scratch, and with the freshest ingredients available. Be sure to try some of their most popular sandwiches such as the Reuben, turkey melt, or the chicken pesto melt. If you’re planning a day hiking and exploring the outdoors, Joanie’s will be more than happy to pack up your meal to go.
Address: 110 East Midland Avenue, Woodland Park, CO 80863, Phone: 719-686-9091
Visit UTE Pass Historical Society
Committed to preserving the Ute Pass region’s rich history, UTE Pass Historical Society manages a museum alongside a number of historical landmarks and educational programs. At the Pikes Peak Museum, visitors can learn all about the region’s development as they tour exhibits filled with artworks, photographs, and many other artifacts. The museum’s knowledgeable and passionate staff will also happily guide you through a number of the park’s historical buildings such as residential buildings, a town jail, and a cabin featuring historical trains. Be sure to stop by their gift shop to find souvenirs and gifts symbolic of the area’s heritage such as books, toys, jewelry, and other items.
Address: 231 E. Henrietta Ave, Woodland Park, Colorado 80866; Phone: 719-686-7512
Taste unique brews at BierWerks Brewery
Settled in downtown Woodland Park, BierWerks Brewery is a favorite amongst locals for over a decade. The microbrewery is popular for its unique, German-style ales and lagers along with some hoppy brews. Enjoy a pint of their wide selection of beers as you dine in their casual, easy-going bar. Choose between indoor and outdoor seating as you are entertained by live musical performances or watch your favorite game on one of their large televisions. Customers can also grab a bite to eat from their menu which includes Colorado-made sausages, Wisconsin cheese, cold cuts, and a range of vegetarian options as well. BierWerks Brewery is open daily with takeout options available.
Address: 121 East Midland Ave, Woodland Park, Colorado 80863; Phone: 719-686-8100
