Colorado Hikes: Mustang Trail Loop from the White Ranch West Trailhead

Abstract

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Mustang Trail Loop from the White Ranch West Trailhead on this picturesque hike. With a comfortable temperature, this 7.47-mile adventure offers the perfect balance of challenge and scenery during the winter. Whether you're an experienced hiker or looking for a moderate workout, this hike can be tailored to meet your fitness needs. It is ideal for Denver residents seeking adventure and fitness in the great outdoors. Don't miss the chance to discover the beauty of this trail and its potential for personalization.

Keywords:

  • Mustang Trail Loop

  • White Ranch West Trailhead

  • Hiking in Golden

  • Denver Hiking Trails

  • Outdoor Adventure

  • Sunday Hike

  • January Hiking

  • Moderate Hike

  • Scenic Trails

  • Trail Conditions

  • Elevation Gain

  • Hiking Equipment

  • Denver Personal Trainer

  • Fitness Trail

  • Connecting Trails

  • Mustang Loop

  • Hiking Tips

  • Denver Area Hikes

  • Trailhead Amenities

  • Winter Hiking

Only 45 minutes from our personal training studio in Denver.


 

Time of Year: Sunday, January 7th, 2023.

Weather: 19 degrees and partly cloudy.

Cover: 90% exposed.

Time: 8:07 am - 11:09 am.

Distance: 7.47 miles total.

Cost: None.

Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.

Difficulty: Moderate level 1 for altitude (7887 feet), elevation gain (1214 feet), and length (7.47 miles).

Route: Sawmill Trail to Belcher Hill Trail to Mustang Trail to Belcher Hill Trail to Maverick Trail to Upper Longhorn Trail to Rawhide Trail (a figure 8). Note: I added the connecting trails for extra mileage.

Traffic: None to light.

Parking: Two cars between the two lots of the west trailhead.

Equipment: Hiking boots, microspikes.

Terrain: A primarily dry dirt trail with a thin layer of snowpack for 25% of the trail.

Experience: While the hike on Belcher Trail from the east trailhead is beautiful, I decided to start from the west trailhead this time. The Mustang Loop is a must and arguably one of the most beautiful trails in Golden. I hiked counterclockwise (although clockwise is a tad more scenic on the walk). I connected to the Maverick and Upper Longhorn Trails for additional east-facing scenery and mileage.

Denver Personal Trainer Notes: If you take the same route, you'll check off a moderate workout considering the total elevation gain. My personal training clients can easily modify the workout, though. Whether they shorten the mileage by removing the connecting trails or heading counterclockwise on the Mustang Loop to minimize the elevation gain, this trail can serve the fitness needs of all. 

Mustang Trail Loop from the White Ranch West Trailhead Golden

Although not an incredibly tough hike, it will help your endurance and support your efforts while personal training.

Mustang Trail Loop from the White Ranch West Trailhead

My LoHi personal training clients love the access to the foothills from Denver.

Colorado Hikes Personal Trainer

Mustang Loop Trail now ranks as a favorite in Golden, Colorado.


List of Hiking Trails in Colorado

To check out more hiking reviews with pictures, visit “List of Colorado Hikes.” You’ll find options across a spectrum of difficulty, including many trails in the foothills and front range.


The first of two peaks on this hiking trail in Colorado.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER

As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.

Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).

If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!


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