I realize that I've blogged about this spectacular place before, but having just visited again for the first time this year, I had such a great morning there I thought I'd share again.
We here in Larimer County are blessed with some fabulous parks and open spaces, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, boating, and just relaxing in. While many people are aware of the National and State Parks, many of the Open Spaces are overlooked. What that means for you as a visitor is fewer crowds and a more natural experience. I suggest that local residents pick up the latest version of the "Larimer County Natural Resources Recreation Map." You can find these in all our libraries, as well as other venues. The map is free of charge and shows several updates from the 2011 version. It's handy to have around when you find yourself with a day ( 5 hours minimum) to spare.
While the county administers many spaces, parks, reservoirs, and trails, this post is about Red Mountain Open Space, a very secluded, quiet, and beautiful area near the Wyoming border. It features a pleasant, moderate hike of about two miles that takes you through a gorgeous canyon and along a ridge offering stunning views of the landscape. This is a foot-traffic only trail, and keep in mind, dogs are not allowed in this Open Space.
The map will direct you to the Open Space by heading north of the town of Wellington, on County Road 15. There are signs along the way directing you to either Red Mountain to the west, or Soapstone Prairie Open Space (another wonderful, isolated, unspoiled paradise) to the east. I however, prefer approaching Red Mountain from the west off Highway 287, heading toward Laramie. There are no signs, but simply take the right turn to County Road 80. You'll drive past the Park Creek Reservoir and some free-ranging cattle (slow down!), and you'll probably see a few pronghorns along the way. When you hit County Road 19, take a left (north) and then you'll quickly reach County Road 21. There should be a sign there directing you northwest to the trailheads at Red Mountain.
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| Entering the canyon. A geology buff's dream. Several interpretive signs point out what minerals the strata in the rocks depict. And the signs give you an idea of geologic age. |
Since this space opened a few years ago, I try to visit at least twice a year, and there has never been more than one other car in the parking lot on any of our trips. It is bliss for those who seek quiet and solitude. Here are a few suggestions from me to ensure your visit is most enjoyable.
While hiking in the gorgeous canyon is breathtaking (look up at the cliff swallow nests made of mud on the canyon walls), the canyon is rife with biting deer flies. Be sure wear insect repellent or long sleeves and pants.
Also, there is very little shade here, so try to get there as early in the morning as you can, or opt for a cooler, overcast day.
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| Trickling stream in the canyon. Lots of dragonflies--bring your field guide to identify them. |
Pack a cooler with lunch and enjoy your meal at one of the shaded picnic tables. Bring plenty of water--there's none available at Red Mountain, but they do have very clean and modern outhouses.
Be on the lookout for wildlife. Because (I think) the trail is so unused, animals tend to be out in the open and not familiar with humans. On our recent visit we saw pronghorn, mule deer, cottontails, lizards, snakes, and golden eagles.
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| "Where the deer and the antelope play." |
Red Mountain also features 40-plus miles of horseback riding trails. Hope to do that some day. The horse trails also allow mountain biking. Definitely going to do that next time.
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| Feeling fenced in? You'll love the freedom of wide open spaces, no noise pollution, and having a park all to yourself. Try doing that at a National Park in the summer. |
Oh, and if you get your hands on the official map, you'll see that Red Mountain and Soapstone Prairie Open Spaces are connected by some long trails. How much stamina do you have on that horse, mountain bike (or on your legs)?
For those of you who do not live in the area, be sure to consider this lesser-known destination if you elect to vacation here in the northern Colorado/southern Wyoming area. While the big parks get most of the press, these undiscovered gems are often the ones you'll be talking to your friends about when you get home from your vacation. Here's the link for more information about all areas open for recreation that are administered by our county:
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| Thousands of cliff swallow nests can be viewed in the canyon. |
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