The trailhead for an easy and pleasant loop hike begins at the lark parking lot at White’s Ranch Open Space Park just outside of Golden. The area is in the foothills so it offers a climate that is not too cool but not quite as hot as the city either.

The rolling hills and the huge pines make a very pleasant area where there is a number of hikes to choose from. We hiked sections of both Rawhide (4.5mi) and Longhorn (3 mi.) trails that made for a 1 mile easy loop. (Grab a map at the parking lot to see this loop or hike the entire Longhorn or Rawhide trails).

Whichever trail you choose in the park, you will have a hike that is fun and has great views of the Colorado plains, the hills to the west and the rolling hills that are uniquely “foothills-beautiful”. During the fall, the different types of tall wavy grasses change into beautiful autumn colors. And what great views of the valley!

The park is large! It has nice picnic areas with tables and covered pavilions a good distance from the parking lot.

For more trail options go to Jeffco Openspace site