4.9
(7188)
9,077
hikers
01:08
4.43km
20m
Hiking
Hike the easy 2.8-mile Rock Creek Trail in Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, featuring Stearns Lake and the Cradleboard Trail.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
45 m
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
2.22 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
4.43 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.18 km
230 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.18 km
236 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 7 May
20°C
1°C
6 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Rock Creek Trail is an easy hike, approximately 4.4 kilometers (2.7 miles) long. Most hikers can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 8 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, with its 'easy' difficulty grade, minimal elevation gain (around 17 meters), and relatively short distance, the Rock Creek Trail is very suitable for beginners and families. It offers a pleasant outdoor experience without being overly strenuous.
The Rock Creek Trail, located within the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm, offers generally easy terrain. You'll find soft-surface paths suitable for hiking, with gentle slopes and minimal elevation changes, making for a comfortable walk.
The route features several points of interest. You'll traverse sections of the Cradleboard Trail and pass by the scenic Stearns Lake, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Yes, the route extensively uses the Rock Creek Trail itself and also passes through significant sections of the Cradleboard Trail. Additionally, you'll find smaller portions intersecting with the Lac Amora Link Trail, South 104th Street, and the Mary Miller Trail.
While the specific regulations for dogs on this particular Rock Creek Trail in the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve are not detailed, most trails in similar preserves allow dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or the preserve's official website for the most current pet policies before your visit.
Given its easy nature and location, the Rock Creek Trail is enjoyable for most of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer mornings or evenings are also ideal to avoid the midday heat. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially icy or muddy conditions.
Specific permit or entrance fee requirements for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm are not provided in the available data. However, many local preserves offer free access for day use. It's recommended to check the official website for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve or Boulder County Parks and Open Space for the most up-to-date information on any fees or regulations.
While specific parking details for this Rock Creek Trail are not provided, trails within preserves like Carolyn Holmberg typically have designated parking areas near trailheads. Look for parking lots associated with the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm to begin your hike.
Trails in natural preserves like the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve often host diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and possibly deer. The presence of Stearns Lake also suggests opportunities for observing waterfowl and other aquatic life.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms or water fountains directly on the Rock Creek Trail or within the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve is not available. It's always a good practice to bring your own water and use facilities at the trailhead or nearby before starting your hike.