Red Rocks Park

While in Colorado we looked for outdoor areas to explore. Red Rocks Park came to our attention so we took the grandchildren along for another adventure.

Driving into the park, through a red rock.

Red Rocks Park is known for it’s naturally formed, world-famous open-air amphitheater.

Looking down from on top of the amphitheater.

This amphitheater is surrounded by huge, beautiful red rock outcroppings which provide natural acoustics and amazing ambience for the amphitheater.

The natural outcropping on one side of the theater.
The other side of the theater lined with red rock outcroppings.

We had not heard of this gem and little did we know how famous it was for its concerts (including big name bands and orchestras) and how long it has been in use. It opened in 1941. The Beatles performed there in 1964. 

On stage, looking out into the bleacher seating.
A natural shelf in the red rocks behind the stage area.

The grandchildren wanted to walk down the many flight of stairs to the “stage area”.  We did, and then hiked back up.

Another side view.

There were people sightseeing, and some locals were using the rows of stone bleachers for their exercise routine. The capacity of the theater is 9,525 seats!

It’s hard to get perspective of the vastness of this theater that has 9,525 seats.
Another look down to the stage, and beyond.

The amphitheater is in the Red Rocks Park, which also has hiking and biking trails.

 When I mentioned how we enjoyed Red Rocks Park to a friend who previously lived in Colorado, I learned she and her husband had attended a couple of concerts at the amphitheater. I hope to attend some day, when concerts can resume in this beautiful outdoor venue. 

Looking up from the stage area into the bleacher seats.

While on a different hike in the foothills near Boulder, Colorado we came upon another outdoor amphitheater called the Sunrise Amphitheater. This was not nearly as elaborate but it was built in a beautiful setting facing east and meant for folks to come and watch the sunrise.

Sunrise Amphitheater overlooking Boulder, CO.

Another thing to do next time we’re in Colorado…