Spruce Mountain Open Space Trail

Updated on August 18, 2011 by

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Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

5.5 mile loop

Trail Description

Spruce Mountain Trail is a 5.5 mile trail that offers a variety of terrain and views stretching from the eastern plains to Pikes Peak and around to the western Rockies. This hike is a pleasant, shady loop trail with some gradual climbing to the top of the bluff where the views appear and the trail becomes flat and easy.

This Douglas County Open Space, lowland, hike is perfect for those who don’t want to travel and hour to the mountains and/or great for spring and fall when the snow covers mountain trails. Being located fifteen minutes south of Castle Rock, this trail offers a fantastic hike close to home.

Spruce Mountain Trail begins at the trailhead on Spruce Mountain Road Parking lot; follow Spruce Mountain Trail to the upper loop, out to Windy Point and around to the trailhead (you could take the Oak Shortcut to lessen the distance; see map for your favored route).

It’s a good idea to take a map of the park with you because there is no map at the trailhead for direction. Print and take one with you! For the Douglas County Open Space Trail Map, click here.

Directions

Click Map Below. I-25 S to Larkspur Exit. Go south on Spruce Mountain Road 6 miles. Parking lot and trailhead are on right.

Attractions

Two pizzerias are located in Larkspur for an after-hike bite to eat.

About Mary Norton, Contributor of this Hike

Mary grew up here, so she knows all the best places to go! With a family of 5 children and no lack of enthusiasm for the outdoors, Mary is well qualified to give you tips and hike spots that will challenge you as well as delight your whole family. Whether you have kids, dogs, or are just looking to enjoy nature by yourself, Mary will show you where to go to find what you are looking for.

  • carol

    It’s late March now, and it has been consistently in the 60′s in Denver for a week now. Would you recommend this hike for this time of the year?

    • marynorton

       Yes. I would recommend this hike now because all the snow has melted and it’s going to be a really warm weekend.
      Enjoy!

    • Mom2818

      We do this hike twice a week. The trail has been clear of snow for quite some time now.