Matthews / Winters Park Trailhead

I've only come here a few times with some running groups, but I really enjoy the trails here. I would also point out it's an excellent place to go for late fall and winter because the sun hits the trails full on and keeps them dryer! In summer it can get quite hot with lack of shade - definitely bring your sunscreen for this area!

One of my favorite places to mountain bike, not so much because of the technical challenges of the trails, although there are some, but because this was the first place I mountain biked in Colorado. The openness of the area is amazing. The trail leads you to Red Rocks Amphitheater.

If you are on vacation like me and unused to hiking with much altitude, this is likely to be a challenge. If you can hike Dakota Ridge Trail, this should not be difficult. I do not live in Colorado and was unprepared for a hike in the mid 80s. Yes, I did have Gatorade and wore sunscreen. Higher elevations mean more water and sunscreen are needed unless you care to be dehydrated and/or sunburned. I started walking south on the trail with the intent to switch to the Dakota Ridge Trail once there. Had I been used to the elevation, I would have done just that. Instead, I walked a little more than half the trail and stopped at the highway. My friend was waiting for me. The trail is easy to follow except I did not know other trails intersected it. I had to make sure I stayed on the same trail. After you leave the parking lot and walk a little ways, 2 restrooms exist. Those are not visible from the vehicles. I continued walking but liked the idea. The trail is hilly and rocky with limited shade. Be ready for a challenge if you decide to hike or run this. Yes, I saw plenty of runners on a busy day. The next day had rain. If you wish to venture on a side trail, a historic cemetery exists. Plenty of good pictures can be taken while walking the trail. I started at the northern most parking lot. 2 others exist farther south plus at least 1 for Dakota Ridge Trail. At least half the trail has some cellular service.

Close drive from Lakewood and a very pretty, relatively easy hike. There's a one mile loop for a quick walk or you can continue along Red Rocks trail which opens up to miles of trails. A brook at the start for the pups to dip their little paws in, was a nice bonus. 🐾

Talk about OPEN SPACE this is it! Very nice place to trail or bike. Place for family to hang out by the creek and have picnic. Kids will have fun!

When you get back from your trail, hang out by the water. There’s like a hidden entrance on the right side where you can go inside the big trees and listen to the water and birds. Very relaxing.

Also, look or watch out for some deer they are there and snakes too. Parking is available at this place. :)