Local Tour · Matthews/Winters Park, Golden CO

Goat Hikes Near Denver

From $50 per person · 1 guest $65 · 2–3 guests $55/person · 4–8 guests $50/person · 2 hours · Max 8 travelers

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A hike led by very good goats

This two-hour goat hike just west of Denver winds through Matthews/Winters Park on the scenic Morrison Slide Trail, with a small herd from Molly's Menagerie setting the pace. They browse as they go, stopping for whatever looks good along the trail, so expect an unhurried hike with plenty of excuses to stand still and look around.

Along the way you'll pass tilted red sandstone rising out of the hillside and long views over the foothills toward the plains, then the quiet graveyard that is all that remains of Mount Vernon, a Gold Rush settlement and one of the oldest cemeteries in Colorado.

Every goat on this hike has horns, and they do more than they appear to. Blood vessels running close to the surface release excess heat, so a goat's horns work something like a radiator on a warm Colorado afternoon.

What's included

  • Guided 2-hour hike with the rescue goats
  • Trail snacks
  • Bottled water

Along the trail

Striking red rock formations

Tilted red sandstone rises along the Morrison Slide Trail, with views out over the foothills and back toward the plains.

A quiet graveyard

All that remains of Mount Vernon, a Gold Rush-era settlement, is a small historic graveyard along the trail, one of the oldest in Colorado.

An unhurried pace

The goats set the tempo, and it's a forgiving one. This is a hike for anyone who would rather amble than march, and there's usually a goat happy to walk alongside you.

Details

Duration

2 hours (approx.)

Price

1 guest $65 · 2–3 guests $55 per person · 4–8 guests $50 per person

Group size

Maximum 8 travelers

Meeting point

Matthews/Winters Park Trailhead, 1103 County Rd 93, Golden, CO 80401. Meet at the picnic tables across from the restrooms. Look for the goats.

Fitness level

Moderate. Not wheelchair accessible; not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or who are pregnant.

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the hike

Licensed and insured

Permitted to operate on Jefferson County Open Space land, with a per-hike fee paid directly to the county, and covered by commercial liability insurance

Booking

Reserve directly on this page to help us avoid third-party fees, or through Viator

Questions?

Message us on WhatsApp anytime

Goat hike questions

Where are the goat hikes near Denver?

We meet at Matthews/Winters Park in Golden, just west of Denver. The trailhead is at 1103 County Road 93.

How difficult is the hike?

The hike is moderate and takes about two hours. The goats keep the pace unhurried, but the trail includes uneven ground and elevation changes.

Are goat hikes good for children?

Children who are comfortable on a moderate trail are welcome, and discounted rates are available. An adult must accompany children throughout the hike.

What should I wear?

Wear sturdy walking shoes and dress for Colorado weather. Layers, sun protection, and a small daypack are usually helpful.

What is included?

Your booking includes the guided two-hour hike, trail snacks, and bottled water.

Can I book a private goat hike?

Yes. Send a message with your preferred date and group size, and we will let you know what is available.

Every hike gives back

We donate $10 per goat to Molly's Menagerie for the support and care of all of the animals at Gray Muzzle Society.

We also donate $5 per hike to the Jeffco Open Space Foundation for the preservation of the trails we hike, in addition to our permit fees.

Read why the goats hike with us, including a little pack-goat history and what the walks do for the herd.

Acknowledging the History of This Land

Matthews/Winters Park sits on land historically home to the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Ute people. An acknowledgment on its own does not do much, so we send $5 from every hike to the American Indian College Fund, which supports Native students and the tribal colleges they attend.

See exactly who we support, and why →

Ready to meet the goats?

Groups are limited to 8 travelers. Book directly below or through Viator. Check the available dates before making travel plans.

Reserve Directly

Booking direct helps us avoid third-party fees. Fill out this form to get started, we'll confirm your date within 24 hours.

9:00 AM is available Sunday through Thursday. Fridays, Saturdays, and permit closure dates are unavailable.

Looking for a private or custom hike? Contact us with your preferred date and group size.

Trip total: $65 · $65 per person

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