We are so blessed to live in Colorado. With 300 days of sunshine a year we can explore the iconic natural beauty our state affords just about any time of year. One of the many perks of living in Sterling Ranch is having free access to the Colorado State Parks system because every new Sterling Ranch residence comes with an annual Colorado State Parks pass* at no charge! Even better, we are lucky to have two State Parks right in our backyard — Chatfield Reservoir and Roxborough State Park!
Even though winter is coming, there are many sunny, warm days ahead. We’re not ready to retire our hiking shoes just yet! How about you? Join us out on the trail with this list of 10 trails within 10 minutes of Sterling Ranch! Most of these trails are within the State Parks system, yet we’ve added a few others not to be missed nearby.
So, grab your State Park Pass, jacket, water bottle, and hit the road! You’re only ten minutes from your destination.
Roxborough State Park
Minutes from Sterling Ranch and Littleton, Roxborough State Park is known as one of Denver-area’s backyard jewels. It has an abundance of wildlife — black bears, mule deer, and a variety of birds can all be found here. It is also unique in its towering red rock formations. Check out these trails within Roxborough State Park.
#1 Waterton Canyon Trail
At just over 12 miles long with little to no elevation gain, this trail is great for all hiking levels. Much of the trail runs near a river, which offers relaxing streaming water sounds and beautiful views.
#2 Lyons Overlook Trail
This is a short 1.4 mile loop that features great views of red rock formations on one side and downtown Denver on the other.
Chatfield State Park
This gorgeous State Park in Littleton surrounds the beautiful Chatfield Reservoir. With various watering holes, camp sites, and bird walking paths, this park is truly a nature lover’s treasure. Adventure awaits for everyone on these glorious trails.
#3 Plum Creek Nature Trail
Created in 2019, this trail is beautiful and brand spanking new! Not to be confused with the East Plum Creek Trail in Castle Rock, this pathway is paved and takes you through marshlands and cottonwoods. About two miles long, it connects to other unmarked trails offering a more wildlife-style experience if desired (think no trail signs and wilderness all around).
#4 Chatfield Equestrian Loop
Another way to connect with nature is to experience it while horseback riding! This trail is made specifically for equestrian enthusiasts and offers views that can’t be beat.
#5 Chatfield’s Dog Off-Leash Area
Have a pup who’s ready to let off some steam? This beautiful dog friendly area is for you! Unlike a regular dog park, this space offers a multitude of trails and watering holes. So, you can hike the trail system as your pup enjoys running through the fields, playing with other dogs, and splashing around.
South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center
This is a beautiful area with 880 acres of open space, five lakes, and a variety of surface trails for you to explore. With an educational nature center nearby, there’s something here for everyone! Here’s a couple of our favorites.
#6 The Regional Trail
If you are a runner or cyclist, this trail is for you! It goes on for miles and offers scenic views the entire time!
#7 Mary Carter Greenway Trail
This beauty starts near Chatfield Reservoir and goes north past the Hudson Gardens ending around the South Platte neighborhood, where it meets the South Platte River trail. This is a beautiful choice for walking, running, or biking.
Wander On Your Own
Here is a list of nearby trails not associated with any park system. Due to their beauty, they are not to be missed!
#8 Deer Creek Trail
If you are wanting to gain some elevation (think over 1,800 feet!) this trail is for you! It offers gorgeous views anytime of year and passes through beautiful meadows that can be enjoyed as wildflower fields in the spring and magical snow-covered landscapes in late fall.
#9 Two Brands Trail
Near Deer Creek Canyon Road, this trail encircles Hildebrand Ranch Park. Offering gorgeous views of the valley and the Chatfield Reservoir, this loop can even be done on your mountain bike.
#10 E-trail
Also known as the Douglas County East West Regional Trail, this path goes through the Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, and Castle Pines neighborhoods. It is an almost 40 mile out and back journey, so travel as long or as short as you like!
Adventure Together
With so many different trail options only a few minutes from Sterling Ranch, our residents are sure to find joy while spending time outside all year long. Pick your adventure, head on out, and soak up the wonderful Colorado sun!
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At Sterling Ranch, rolling hills, crisp blue skies, native landscaping, and abundant wildlife are just outside your doorstep, calling you to your next adventure. With a variety of brand new homes — many available now — we can’t wait to welcome you to this uniquely wonderful community!