Bitterbrush Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The footing is generally good on the trail. There is a rocky section about .5 miles up the trail that will require attention to footing that lasts about .5 miles. Do not expect to find water on the trail, and bring a little extra with you. The sections of the trail that go through the pine stands provide some nice shade on a hot day.

Park at the Hall Ranch parking on Highway 7 just outside of Lyons. Restrooms will be found here. Be aware that there is no water at the trailhead.

Heading right at the first junction (about 100 ft from the start) the trail begins its uphill journey, gradually at first, then a bit steeper with some rocky outcroppings to navigate. The trail will level out a bit as it passes a large meadow area that houses a large prairie dog colony. Raptors, or even a coyote will be seen looking for a meal. After this, the trail moves through ponderosa as it heads uphill. It winds around a bit, with changing terrain to keep things interesting.

The trail ends at the junction with the Nelson Loop.

Visitors will be treated with wildflowers, prairie dogs and possibly coyote in the lower meadows. Deer can be seen higher up in the Ponderosa forests. Mountain lions have been spotted in the area according to the Boulder County kiosk at the trailhead.