Roxborough State Park, Littleton

Deer who appear exactly where the trail guide says, and hang around for LONG photo shoots, golden eagles, violets, and all for five bucks! Colorado's state park system features several parks within easy driving distance of Denver. This one is on the south side of the city, sort of nowhere. But worth the drive. Don't go on a summer weekend, or a holiday such as Memorial Day. It will be packed. During the day, during the week is best. The park is open year round, and is even quite nice in winter. The Fountain trail, no guide necessary, a simple balloon loop, gives beautiful views of the upheaved Fountain Formation sandstone of the Ancestral Rockies. Bring the camera. Also bring sunscreen and water. Hiking boots for this trail are overkill. Running shoes, or any good walking shoe, are fine. And bring binocs for the eagles and other winged residents.