Rawhide Trail (White Ranch): Tranquil Winter Hike Near Belcher Hill
ABSTRACT
Explore the scenic Rawhide Trail loop at White Ranch, offering stunning east-facing vistas and tranquil forest landscapes. This moderate-level hike, with an altitude of 7550 feet and an elevation gain of 863 feet over 5.27 miles, is perfect for all endurance levels. Discover the beauty of this winter trail, equipped with hiking boots and microspikes for packed snow terrain. With a nearby bathroom at the trailhead and easy access to Belcher Hill for extended hiking options, this Sunday adventure promises an unforgettable experience.
Keywords
Rawhide Trail
White Ranch
winter hike
Belcher Hill
moderate-level hike
Rawhide Trail is only 38 minutes from my personal training studio in Denver.
Rawhide Trail (White Ranch)
Time of Year: Sunday, February 25th, 2024.
Weather: 44 degrees and sunny.
Cover: 50% exposed in the first half, 75% exposed in the second half.
Time: 9:00 am - 11:13 am.
Distance: 5.27 miles total.
Cost: None.
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.
Difficulty: Moderate level 1 for altitude (7550 feet), elevation gain (863 feet), and length (5.27 miles). Not technical.
Route: Counterclockwise on the Rawhide Trail loop.
Traffic: Light/Moderate.
Parking: Only two cars at 9:00 am. By 11:15 am, both lots were nearly full.
Equipment: Hiking boots, microspikes.
Terrain: A dirt path with packed snow throughout. Random sections of the trail were muddy.
Experience: The Rawhide Trail highlights the area's tranquil beauty with occasional east-facing vistas. The forest canopy and the valley also offer beautiful landscapes. The varying elevation of 863 feet makes it approachable for most endurance levels.
Personal Trainer Notes: The winter season always forces a revisit to the hikes close to home. This trail will appeal to varying endurance levels of my personal training clients with quick access to Belcher Hill trail for additional mileage and elevation gain.
Rawhide Trail is approachable for personal training clients of any endurance level.
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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.
My final climb of the Decalibron was Mount Democrat, a Colorado 14er.
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!
