Highlands Ranch, Colo., is a community that offers a blend of suburban living and direct access to a dramatic natural landscape. For those who enjoy hiking, the area provides a network of trails catering to various experiences, from a leisurely stroll to a more challenging trek. These hikes are a key part of the local lifestyle, providing residents with an easy way to engage with the beautiful Rocky Mountain foothills.

This guide will explore the specific places to go hiking in Highlands Ranch, highlighting the unique features of each location.

The Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness Area is a vast 8,200-acre conservation space. It is a defining feature of the community, providing a stunning natural escape with over 25 miles of natural surface trails for hiking and mountain biking. The trails are part of a private system open to Highlands Ranch Community Association members and their guests.

The Backcountry Wilderness Area is a sanctuary for wildlife, including deer and elk, and some of the trails are closed annually from January 1 to March 31 to protect wintering animals from human disturbance. The area includes the Wildcat Mountain Trail System, which consists of beginner to intermediate trails, and the Highlands Point Trail System, which has steeper terrain and tighter turns.

Bluffs Regional Park, located at the eastern edge of Highlands Ranch, provides one of the best scenic views in the area. The park's main trail is a 2.7-mile loop that offers panoramic views of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains and the Denver skyline. It is a popular destination for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

The Bluffs Regional Park Trail is a wide, well-maintained pathway with gentle inclines. It is open to the public and connects to other trail systems in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree. The park is ideal for a sunset walk or a morning jog, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban vistas. It is also a great place to spot wildlife like prairie dogs and hawks.

Waterton Canyon is a picturesque and accessible trail that follows a wide, flat service road through a canyon along the South Platte River. This trail is a significant hiking destination in Highlands Ranch, as it is the starting point for Segment 1 of the Colorado Trail. The canyon's scenery and wildlife are its key features.

The trail is known for its wildlife, particularly the bighorn sheep that graze near the road. It also provides an accessible fishing pier. The trail is 6.5 miles one way, leading to the Strontia Springs Dam, and it is a popular route for bikers and hikers. The canyon is a quiet escape, but it is important to note that dogs are not allowed on the trail to protect the bighorn sheep.

The Douglas County East/West Regional Trail is a significant regional trail that connects several communities, including Highlands Ranch. This 27-mile trail winds through grasslands and oak bluffs, providing a long-distance route for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is a major piece of the regional trail network.

The trail offers a blend of natural surfaces and improved areas, and it has numerous trailheads with parking and restrooms. The trail provides an opportunity for a long hike or a multi-day trip. It also connects to other trails, including the Bluffs Regional Park and the Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness Area.

The Wildcat Mountain Trail System is a network of beginner to intermediate trails located within the Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness Area. This trail system provides a number of loops and out-and-back trails that offer a variety of terrain and scenic views. The trails are a great place to experience the area's natural beauty.

The trail system is known for its rolling terrain and stunning views of the Front Range and downtown Denver. The Ponderosa Loop and Waterin' Hole Loop are popular trails in the system. The trails are open from sunrise to sunset, but close annually from January 1 to March 31 for wintering wildlife. This is a crucial detail for anyone planning to hike in Highlands Ranch in the winter.

Roxborough State Park, a short drive from Highlands Ranch, is a natural landmark known for its dramatic red rock formations. The Fountain Valley Trail is a moderate 2.5-mile loop that winds through some of the most magnificent land in the park. It provides a unique geological and scenic experience.

The trail offers views of the Fountain and Lyons rock formations, similar to those found at the Garden of the Gods. It passes by historic buildings and offers an opportunity to see mule deer, foxes, and golden eagles. The trail is not paved, but it is wheelchair-friendly in good weather. The park charges an entrance fee and does not allow dogs.

Daniels Park, a short drive from Highlands Ranch, is a unique park that is a habitat for a bison herd. The park is an excellent place for a nature walk and offers a stunning view of the Front Range. It is a destination for those who want to see wildlife in a natural setting.

The park has a short trail that is suitable for a leisurely walk. The main attraction is the bison herd, which is visible from the trail. The park also has a number of picnic spots and provides a beautiful view of the sunset over the mountains. It is an excellent destination for a quick escape from the suburban environment.

The Dad Clark Trail is a scenic trail in Highlands Ranch that provides a peaceful outdoor experience. It runs through the community, offering a quiet escape with a focus on natural beauty and local flora and fauna. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels.

The trail is known for its serene atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for a walk or a jog. It is also a great place for birdwatching and observing local wildlife. The trail is also accessible, making it a popular spot for residents of all ages. This trail provides a simple yet effective way to engage with nature.

If you’re exploring Highlands Ranch trails and thinking about making the area your home, Brian Grimm is the local expert you’ll want on your side. A Colorado native with deep roots in Douglas County, Brian combines years of real estate experience with a background in residential construction. Known for his supportive and straightforward approach, Brian helps buyers and sellers navigate the market with confidence. 

Reach out to Brian Grimm today to start your Highlands Ranch real estate journey with a trusted local professional.