Just west of Larkspur and the I-25 corridor the Sandstone Ranch Open Space awaits exploration, where the historic ranching operation has transformed from cow paths to hiking trails. From the Palmer Lake area north of Colorado Springs, drive north on Highway 105 aka South Perry Park Road. The road travels through rolling grassland at the edge of the foothills and after about 7.5 miles reaches the large trailhead parking lot on the left/west side of the road.

To execute the Juniper Valley Loop, locate the sign for the trail that heads northward through a large grassy field and across a drainage with large willow trees. The route continues to wind northward and after about a half mile reaches an intersection with Buzzard Loop, a side trail that loops back to Juniper Valley Trail and adds about another half mile to the trip.

Pale lumpy rock outcrops offer ideal roosting spots for Turkey Vultures when they return in springtime. Also look for Rock Wrens scooting around the outcrops, pausing to engage in their telltale bobbing behavior while serenading hikers with their lazy song of extended trills and tremolos.

Beyond the “Buzzard Rocks” continue for about another half mile, swinging west to the beginning of the Juniper Valley loop section. Bear right and travel northwest, gradually descending along a small ridge next to a valley that is truly packed full of junipers. Junipers provide year round shelter for birds and their bluish “berries” serve as a reliable wintertime food item for thrushes like solitaires, robins and bluebirds. Open spots along the ridge allow for expansive views of the Rampart Range to the west and Dawson Butte Open Space to the north.

After about another .75 mile reach the far end of the loop, passing through a stand of tall shady junipers and some scattered Ponderosa Pines. The trail swings around and returns southeast along an opposite ridge that reveals views of large clusters of red sandstone that form the namesake of Sandstone Ranch.

After about another half mile return to the beginning of the Juniper Valley Loop section and bear right towards the “Buzzard Rocks” then across the grassland, hiking for about another mile back to the trailhead parking lot.

—

Joe LaFleur has lived in Woodland Park since 2016 and is a hiking enthusiast that hits the trails weekly. He has successfully summited over 150 unique 13ers and 14ers in Colorado. Contact Joe with questions or feedback at joe@betterbirdwatching.com. Hiking is great exercise but can be hazardous. Always be sure to plan well, check the weather, bring a printed map, tell someone where and when you are going and contact them when you return safely.

BOX

IF YOU GO

PARK: Douglas County Open Space

BEST TIMES TO VISIT: March to November

TRAILS: Juniper Valley Loop

LENGTH: About 3.25 miles loop style hike, about 500 feet elevation gain

DIFFICULTY: Easy

NOTES: With its proximity to the I-25 corridor, Sandstone Ranch Open Space is a convenient hiking side trip on commutes to Denver. The trails are also popular with bikers and equestrians.