Exploring Colorado's Stunning Hiking Trails: A Guide from the Ford Fountain Team
Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating outdoor adventures. From lush forests to towering mountains, there's no shortage of stunning scenery to explore on foot. As seasoned real estate professionals specializing in luxury properties across Colorado, the Ford Fountain Team at LIV Sotheby's International Realty is passionate about showcasing the natural beauty that surrounds our communities. Today, we're excited to share our favorite hiking trails in the area, each offering its own unique charm and allure.
Wanda Ford's Pick: Trails in the Village at Castle Pines
Wanda Ford, with her deep-rooted connection to the Village at Castle Pines, finds solace and joy exploring the trails right in her backyard. With its meandering paths, scenic vistas, and serene ambiance, the Village at Castle Pines offers a perfect blend of nature and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes.
The Village at Castle Pines includes a trail system of approximately 13 miles running throughout the community – and it’s growing all the time! Trail styles vary throughout the community. Some trails are hard surface asphalt or concrete paved trails; others are composed of loose recycled asphalt or gravel; a few others are rustic native trails. In addition to regular pedestrian traffic, bicycles are permitted on the Village trails. Horses and motorized vehicles or scooters are not permitted on any of the trails.
Liz Howell's Favorite: Hiking Rock Park at The Rock
For Liz Howell, the rugged beauty of Hiking Rock Park at The Rock holds a special place in her heart. Nestled amidst dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation, this trail offers a thrilling adventure for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you're seeking a challenging ascent or a peaceful nature walk, Hiking Rock Park has something for everyone.
Rock Park in Castle Rock, Colorado is the trailhead for a 1.4 mile loop within a loop hike that climbs to the base of the town’s famous Castle Rock. There is a panoramic view of Castle Rock at the top. Pike’s Peak can be seen to the southwest, and Long’s Peak to the northwest.
Kathryn Fountain's Choice: Mountain Biking at Lair o’ the Bear Park
Kathryn Fountain's love for outdoor adventure leads her to the exhilarating trails of Lair o’ the Bear Park, where mountain biking enthusiasts can revel in the thrill of navigating winding paths and rocky terrain. Surrounded by towering trees and the soothing sounds of Bear Creek, this park provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike.
Lair o’ the Bear Park is a favorite of Open Space visitors and families due to its abundance of picnic tables and proximity to Bear Creek for fishing. For a challenging experience, enjoy a 12.6-mile, round-trip journey on Bear Creek Trail passing through three adjoining Denver Mountain Parks to the west.
Lair o’ the Bear Park is now home to Jeffco Open Space’s (JCOS) newest bike-only, directional trail: Rutabaga Ride, which officially opened today, May 25, 2023. Named after John “Rutabaga” Johnson who historically ranched and sold produce on this former farm, Rutabaga Ride is a 3.5-mile, bike-optimized trail, first proposed in 2018 by Colorado Mountain Biking Association (COMBA) as an alternative route to help separate visitors and create a better experience for all.
Briar Gomez's Preference: Bighorn Creek Trail (East) in Vail
Briar Gomez finds serenity amidst the majestic beauty of the Bighorn Creek Trail in Vail. As one of Colorado's most iconic hiking destinations, this trail boasts awe-inspiring views of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant alpine meadows. Whether you're embarking on a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, the Bighorn Creek Trail promises an unforgettable adventure.
Bighorn Creek is right in Vail’s backyard and is one of the five spectacular East Vail trails. Take exit 180 off Interstate 70 and follow Bighorn Road on the south side of the highway east to Columbine Drive. Turn left on Columbine Drive, and find the trailhead on your left after crossing under the interstate.
After the initial climb the grade mellows and the trail wanders through a mix of Aspen trees, Lodgepole Pines and Douglas Firs. The trail crosses a number of large avalanche paths filled with lush undergrowth and a sampling of Colorado’s wild flowers. Particularly notable is a bloom of glacier lily that tends to be in its prime around this time of year.
Each meadow and rocky outcrop features increasingly impressive views of the snow covered Gore Range. The final destination is an old prospecting cabin located at 10,700 feet, roughly 3 ½ miles from the trailhead. You may encounter snow-covered trails above 10,500 feet, so if you’re hoping to reach the cabin, bring a map.
Alex Osten's Favorite Trail: Cherry Creek State Park
For Alex Osten, the expansive trails of Cherry Creek State Park offer a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its picturesque reservoir, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes, Cherry Creek State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature's splendor.
Head out for a walk along an interpretive trail or another trail in the park's elaborate trail system. Cherry Creek boasts 35 miles of trails (12 of which are paved) that are open to walkers, runners, bicyclists, and horseback riders. Each trail has different permissions. Some allow dogs, others don’t. Some are just for walking.
The reservoir at Cherry Creek is a popular spot for boating, swimming, waterskiing and wakeboarding, and fishing. And its lakeside campground makes it a favorite camping spot for both locals and visitors due to its proximity to the city and the activities it allows for. You can also plan a picnic if an overnight stay isn't in your cards.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a novice adventurer, Colorado's diverse array of hiking trails offers something for everyone to enjoy. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Happy trails!
