Founder’s Trail and Meadow View Hike

The Founder’s Trail and Meadow View Trail presents the ideal excuse to get the whole family out into the fresh air. Kids, adults, experienced explorers, and novice hikers alike will surely be impressed by the diversity of this expedition. Hike through grassy plains dotted with wildlife, up ridges that reveal awe-inspiring sights of the foothills, and through the shade of beautiful old-growth pines, this path packs a punch. Pack plenty of water and charge your camera because we can guarantee you are going to want to snap a few pics along this stunning adventure.

Embark on your excursion along the Founder’s Trail and Meadow View Hike from the Sleepy S Trailhead. From here the trail can be completed from either direction, but we prefer hiking counterclockwise on this one. Turn right and merge onto the Painter’s Pause Trail. Travel through the lush meadowlands that expose wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. Shortly after your departure from the trailhead you will confront an intersection, keep left here and you will be diverted onto the Founder’s Trail. Passing an overlook that reveals sights of Bergen Peak and the neighboring gold course, follow this path to the next intersection.

At this point, you will want to merge onto the Meadow View Trail. Hike through the sparse tree coverage of old-growth pines and revel in the sights of the meadow below. Trek the forest route, and at the next junction, keep left onto the Elk Ridge Trail. Travel this route, merging onto the Sleepy S Trail at the path’s end. Follow the Sleepy S Trail all the way back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.