“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.” – Henry David Thoreau
Hiking in Colorado is a really special experience. Maybe it’s the clear blue skies, or the miles and miles of wildflowers. Or perhaps it’s the view along that way that leaves so many in awe. Most likey, it’s all of those things combined.
Guests at C Lazy U Ranch have exclusive access to about 80 miles of hiking trails. Whether you are a beginner on the trail or have several hikes under your belt, we have an extensive trail system just for you.
Dawns Point Hike
Difficulty Level: Black/Advanced
Located on the north side of C Lazy U Ranch along Curtis Ride is Dawns Point Hike. This 8 mile out and back hike is along a mostly single track and takes hikers through prime pronghorn territory. The summit is the highest point on the C Lazy U Ranch at roughly 9,367 ft. in elevation.
There are two ways to get to Dawns Point Hike:
- If you want to get in a few extra miles, we recommend starting at the Ranch and walk
- If you prefer saving all of your energy for the hike, C Lazy U Ranch provides a shuttle to take hikers to the trailhead at the bottom of Curtis Ride
The trail begins in an open field, but guests should be prepared to climb quickly to a rocky ridgeline, which leads to stunning views of the Continental Divide, a few local ski resorts and well-known lakes. If you visit during summer, you will find a wide range of colorful wildflowers, which only add to the majestic landscape. If you are a fan of fall colors, Dawns Point is a stunning way to experience the changing autumn leaves.
Mt. Baldy Hike
Difficulty Level: Blue/Intermediate
One of the best hiking trails in Colorado is Mt. Baldy. Hike to the third highest point on the C Lazy U Ranch property, which is just shy of 9,000 ft. in elevation. The Mt. Baldy hike is roughly four miles out and back or you can choose to hike the five mile loop.
Mt. Baldy is a modern elevation hike through aspen and lodgepole pine. Don’t be surprised to see a mule deer in the forest below the trail or an occasional moose feeding in the aspens. Once the summit is reached, our hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Continental Divide and the far peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park. In addition, you will be rewarded with some of the best views Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake
Our favorite time of year to hike Mt. Baldy is either summer or fall because the trees will shade you from the summer sun and you will experience the magical change of colors in the trees during fall.
Garden of the Gods Hike
Difficulty Level: Green/Easy
For beginner hikers or hikers who are just looking for a nice Colorado hiking trip, the Garden of the Gods hike is made for you. Our guests can choose to be guided or hike it unguided. Starting on the north side of the C Lazy U Ranch property and the far side of the mesa, guests can either get to the trail by walking from the Ranch or take a shuttle.
This easy Colorado hiking trip is 2.3 miles out and back and is ideal for getting a feel for our Rocky Mountain altitude. Walk through horse pastures to a large rock formation, where you can see the valley of our valley and the river.
Fun Fact: The river was the inspiration for the name C Lazy U Ranch!
We encourage our guests to sign up for a guided hike and a skilled ranch hand will guide you on some of the best trails in scenic overlooks Colorado has to offer. While on your hike, you will learn about the Rocky Mountain landscape and endless wildflowers. The Ranch can accommodate all skill levels within the 8,500 acres.
