Living in picturesque Colorado inspires even the biggest homebody to lace up a pair of hiking boots and explore in the sunshine. And at The Canyons, we believe the only thing better than being in your beautiful home is being in our natural surroundings. That’s why a third of our upcoming community will be dedicated to parks, trails, and open space.
With more than 15 miles of paved and dirt trails in the works, you’ll always be steps away from a morning or evening hike. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you’ll also be within driving distance of some of the most beautiful trails in and around Douglas County. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced hiker, you’re sure to find a trail that suits your skill level. That’s one of the many unique perks about living here — there’s something for everybody.
New to hiking? Bluffs Regional Park Trail offers spectacular views of the Front Range. This 2.7-mile loop is terrific for beginners or families with small children. If you’re looking for a longer hike, Spruce Meadows Trail is 8.5 miles and considered easy to moderate. This trail winds through fields of wildflowers and offers vistas of Pikes Peak, Spruce Mountain, and thousands of acres of protected open space.
Nearby, Castlewood Canyon is another popular hiking destination, especially in the spring. Here you’ll enjoy stunning environmental diversity on several trails ranging from mild to moderate. If you or anyone in your family is an avid birder, Castlewood is home to one of the largest turkey vulture populations in the state.
While Roxborough State Park is filled with dramatic red rock formations, it offers a variety of trails for all abilities, from the half-mile Fountain Overlook trail to the challenging 6.4-mile hike to the 7,160-foot Carpenter Peak. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the stunning views and animal sightings from the park’s many overlooks.
For the seasoned hiker, the Colorado Trail is known as one of the premier long-distance trails in the country — lauded by hikers, backpackers, bikers, and horse riders from around the world. This trail stretches 567 miles between Denver and Durango and passes through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Colorado Rockies. Most hikers take on the trail in sections, covering anywhere from nine to 25 miles at a time. If you’re prepared to venture to 13,000 feet, you’ll encounter some of the best high alpine scenery in the country.
It’s true — Douglas County’s spectacular scenery offers a constant invitation to explore, and we hope that, as a future resident of The Canyons, you’ll get as much out of it as you can every year. But before you head out for the trails, make sure you’re carrying the right supplies. Summer in Colorado is a gorgeous time of year, but the weather can turn unexpectedly, so always be prepared.