TWO LARKSPUR HIKES I’M LOVING
Even if you live in Denver, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Larkspur. It’s a tiny town right off I-25, almost exactly half way between Denver and Colorado Springs.
We live on the southeast side of town so hopping on I-25 and heading south is often much easier than driving west or north for hiking in places like Golden and Boulder.
While there are many trails to choose from in Castle Rock and the Springs, I’ve felt drawn lately to the little ranching town of Larkspur with its population of ~200. Two trails, in particular, have become favorites that we frequent often - Juniper Valley Loop and Eagle Pass Trail.
JUNIPER VALLEY LOOP
Trail System: Sandstone Ranch Open Space
Length: 3.4 mi
Elevation Gain: 354 ft
What I Love:
This trail is just 35 minutes from my house. It’s perfect for days when we don’t have much time to squeeze in a hike.
There are some cool rock formations to check out and beautiful views. The surrounding ranch land is lovely.
The trail is not very strenuous or technical so it makes for a pleasant, easy hike.
There’s TONS of parking. I’ve never seen the lot more than a quarter full.
Good to Know:
This trail can be fairly busy and narrow in spots, and most everyone has a dog with them. Thinking about hiking off leash? Maybe don’t. Ask yourself these questions - Is your dog’s recall perfect? Even around wildlife? If necessary, can you keep them close enough that you can reach out and touch them at all times? Can you prevent them from walking around blind corners without you? I’ve seen dogs here who were off leash and should not have been. Be respectful, make good choices, and don’t be the person who gives off leash dogs a bad rap.
There are cacti along this trail. If stepping to the side of the trail to let others pass, do so with care.
Every time I’ve hiked this trail, it has been VERY windy. I like to use a rain cover for my baby carrier backpack on windy days.
The loop section of the trail is somewhat shaded. In my experience, this section has more ice and mud. Even if the majority of the trail looks dry, traction may be good to have for this section in winter / spring.
I have seen people attempt to use jogging strollers on this trail. I have yet to see the trail in good enough shape for this to work, but alas, it’s been a snowy/muddy winter. Only time will tell if the conditions are better in summer.
EAGLE PASS TRAIL
Trail System: Spruce Mountain Open Space
Length: 3.9 mi
Elevation Gain: 311 ft
What I Love:
This trail is slightly farther but still only about 40 minutes from my house.
Again there are some cool rock formations and expansive views of the surrounding area.
The trail is very easy with minimal elevation gain.
There’s lot of parking.
At least in my experience, this trail doesn’t see a lot of traffic. Especially on a weekday, this this a great spot for the dogs to (responsibly) enjoy some off leash time.
Good to Know:
This seems to be a trail system where a lot of people hike off leash with their dogs. I’ve seen people just open their car door at the trailhead and let their dogs take off running. Be respectful and be on your guard. Prepare to be approached by other dogs.
A section of this trail passes through ranch land. Be ready to leash up if your dog can’t do a sustained off leash heel.
Sections of this trail can be very windy. Dress accordingly and consider bringing a rain cover for your carrier.
The best part? Both of these trail systems have multiple trails that I’ve yet to try out. If I find new favorites, I’ll be sure to update you! Have you hiked either of these trails? Drop a comment below!