Colorado Hikes: Walker Ranch Loop Trail
ABSTRACT
Discover the beauty of the foothills near Golden and Boulder by hiking the Walker Ranch Loop Trail. On this particular January Sunday, with the weather at 34 degrees and overcast, it's the perfect time to embark on an adventure. This trail offers a rewarding challenge with a medium-level difficulty rating, covering 8.32 miles and an elevation gain of 1627 feet. Starting at the Walker Ranch Loop Trailhead, you'll be treated to stunning views of the foothills, high plains, and parts of the front range throughout your hike. Whether you complete the entire loop or just a segment, this hike near Denver is a delightful outdoor experience.
KEYWORDS
Walker Ranch Loop Trail
Hiking near Golden and Boulder
Foothills hiking
Colorado hiking
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Winter hiking
Take an escape to Walker Ranger Loop Trail from the personal training studio in Denver.
Time of Year: Sunday, January 21st, 2024.
Weather: 34 degrees and overcast.
Cover: 95% exposed.
Time: 8:10 am - 11:35 am.
Distance: 8.32 miles total from the Walker Ranch Loop Trailhead.
Cost: None.
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.
Difficulty: Medium level 4 for altitude (7349 feet), elevation gain (1627 feet), and length (8.32 miles). Not technical.
Route: Walker Ranch Loop Trail.
Traffic: Light.
Parking: Only two vehicles were parked at 8:00 am, and 75% were taken by 11:30 am.
Equipment: Hiking boots.
Terrain: Layers of dirt, gravel, and packed snow (with occasional patches of dry path).
Experience: The season has brought me back to the foothills near Golden and Boulder over the last five weeks, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the new trails I’ve checked off. While you can connect to this trail via Eldorado Canyon State Park, you will shave off half the distance by starting at the Walker Ranch Loop Trailhead and focusing primarily on the loop. The varying elevation gives you an appropriate amount of work while putting the foothills, high plains, and parts of the front range in view for the length of the hike. It is a beautiful hike close to Denver that offers quite a bit (even if you only hike out and back for a segment). I chose the clockwise route to avoid the slippery descent to South Boulder Creek.
Personal Trainer Notes: My personal training clients always look for a fun challenge nearby; this trail doesn’t disappoint. The length and total elevation gain is an excellent workout without pushing you too hard. For the masochist, you’ll enjoy the ascent at the end of the clockwise loop for your final exertion. I prefer a descent at the end, but I wouldn’t trade this experience!
A pretty good workout for personal training clients of any endurance level.
The winter landscape of Walker Ranch Loop trail.
Some evidence of a fire from a couple of years ago.
The incredible view from Walker Ranch Loop trail.
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!
