Plymouth Mountain Loop

The Plymouth Mountain Loop is located within Deer Creek Canyon Park. You can typically find parking at the main trailhead for the park, which provides access to the various trails, including this loop. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within Deer Creek Canyon Park, including the Plymouth Mountain Loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The best time to jog this loop is from mid-spring through late fall when the weather is most favorable. While accessible year-round, winter conditions can make it challenging, requiring appropriate gear like Yaktrax for icy or snowy sections.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access Deer Creek Canyon Park, where the Plymouth Mountain Loop is located. It is free to enjoy the trails.

The route features diverse terrain. You'll encounter sections of 300-million-year-old red and white sandstones, transitioning to older, harder rocks. Expect a mix of singletrack and wider paths, with rocky portions and roots, particularly on steeper ascents like 'The Wall'.

This loop is generally considered a challenging jog due to its significant elevation gain and varied, often rocky terrain. It's rated as 'difficult' for jogging, making it more suitable for experienced joggers rather than beginners.

The loop offers numerous scenic spots. You'll find panoramic views of red rock formations, the plains to the east, Chatfield Reservoir, and even downtown Denver. Be sure to look out for the Meadowlark Trail Viewpoint and the View of Plymouth Mountain. The trail also winds through lush forests and extensive patches of Gambel oak.

Yes, the Plymouth Mountain Loop is part of a larger network of trails within Deer Creek Canyon Park. It connects with and utilizes sections of trails such as the Meadowlark Trail, Plymouth Creek Trail, Homesteader Trail, and the Denver Orbital Trail, offering options to extend or vary your run.

'The Wall' is a well-known, particularly steep and rocky section of the ascent on this route. It presents a significant challenge for joggers, requiring a strong effort to navigate its incline and uneven surface.

For a more gradual decline after the main ascent, many find jogging the loop in a counter-clockwise direction preferable. This approach allows for a leg-pumping climb up 'The Wall' followed by a more manageable descent.

Given its 'difficult' rating for jogging, significant elevation gain, and rocky terrain, the full Plymouth Mountain Loop is generally not recommended for families with young children or those seeking an easy stroll. Deer Creek Canyon Park does offer other, more family-friendly trails for a gentler experience.