Stratton Open Space Loop

Ideal for hikers, bikers, and families, the Stratton Open Space Loop is a popular fresh air escape near the city center. Revel in the sights of the Front Range foothills as you venture the path which weaves between ponderosa pine forests and wildflower-laden meadowlands. With dozens of routes to choose from, your adventurer in the open space can be customized to your liking. Spend 20 minutes or two hours exploring the lush terrain. Note that the paths aren’t well signposted, so consider using the trail GPS to navigate the route easily.

Embark on your adventure along the Stratton Open Space Loop from the La Veta Trailhead. From here, take the Upper Meadows Loop through the lush plains, which boasts views of the Front Range in the west and the cityscape in the east. At the first intersection, veer left onto the Arroyo Grande Trail. Hike this path west before turning left onto the Ponderosa Pine Trail. This route will guide you south near the South Suburban Reservoir.

Here, keep left again, merging onto the Stratton Trail Link through a small forest before turning left onto the Upper Meadow Trail at the next junction. Soon after merging onto this route, you will turn right onto the Wild Flower Path, which will deliver you back to the trailhead.