1. Rabbit Mountain Open Space:

Trail: Eagle Wind Trail
Length: 3.8 mi
Elevation Gain: 470 ft
Location: Get Google Maps Directions to Rabbit Mountain Open Space Here
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate - There are specific spots on the trail with semi-tricky footing because of rocks, however, I find this trail to be easier than other moderately ranked trails.
Type: Loop
Dog Friendly: Yes, leashes required.
Entrance Fee: None
Notes: Restrooms and covered picnic tables available at trailhead.

Rabbit Mountain is always a serene experience. Located in Longmont, Colorado it is a plateau that offers unparalleled views of the front range. Because it is a plateau, the leg work is at the beginning of the hike as you ascend to the top. Then you get to wander for 3 miles enjoying the incredible landscape. Try to go on a sunny day, which is not hard in this area, to take advantage of the expansive views!

This hike is perfect every time of year. In winter make sure to bring microspikes for the initial uphill. In summer pack on the sunscreen. This is the first trail I frequented as a solo hiker in the area. It's a wonderful place to practice for longer solo hikes as well, because there is cell service for the majority of the trail.

Wildlife is thriving at Rabbit Mountain. I’ve had my fair share of fun encounters here and frequently see deer, eagles of all kinds, rabbits, and my favorite... coyotes! Rabbit Mountain is not-so-busy on the weekends and is a great hike for all reasonable ages!

3. Button Rock Preserve

Trail: Sleepy Lion Trail to Button Rock Dam
Length: 5.4 mi
Elevation Gain: 920 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Get Google Maps Directions to Button Rock Preserve Here
Type: Loop    
Dogs: One dog per visitor. Leashes required.
Entrance Fee: None
Notes: Button Rock is a great day trip for the whole family. The walkable road is easy. It follows a beautiful river. There are restrooms. Look for rock climbers by the first waterfall! *There is no swimming in Ralph Price Reservoir*

Button Rock Preserve is a short 20 minute drive from Longmont and offers a wide range of trail options for anyone looking for a low key adventure. Check out the trail map before you head out and plan your route accordingly! Every trail option is good. The trail starts on Longmont Dam Road. A quiet and easily navigable road.

You can take this road two miles to the lake (Ralph Price Reservoir), with a short quad burning 200 feet steep elevation gain at the end. Or, you can take the more scenic route! Walk one mile up the road, then veer left onto Sleepy Lion Trail. The trail is beautiful and will take you winding up the side of the mountain until you’re overlooking the lake with views of Mount Meeker and Longs Peak.

Make your way through the forest and down to the reservoir. Walk across the dam and enjoy the feeling of vastness. At the end of the dam, you’ll see the trail on the right. Take it to circle back down and create a loop. You’ll end up back on the road and have a  two mile easy cruise back to your car. There is not a wrong way to do Button Rock Preserve. Go and have fun! It’s easy to navigate. Rangers love to answer questions.

Remember, there is only one dog allowed per visitor. This is a recent change but a very important one. And there is strictly no swimming in the lake; it serves as a water source for many people. Let’s do our part to keep Button Rock thriving!

5. Hermit Park Open Space

Trail: Kruger Rock Trail
Length: 4 mi
Elevation Gain: 980 ft
Location: Get Google Maps Directions to Kruger Rock Trail Here
Difficulty: Moderate 
Dog Friendly: Yes, leashes required.
Type: Out and back
Entrance Fee: $9/vehicle for daily permit, debit machine at entrance
Notes: Check for seasonal closures! Camping is available by reservation at Hermit Park.

Hermit Park is a stunning open space near Estes Park, Colorado. It offers a wide range of activities and is a great day trip for the family! We went in the fall and the colors were booming. Kruger Rock Trail is where you want to go. It offers incredible 360 degree views of Estes Park if you’re willing to do the moderate climb. There is a short rock scramble at the end of this trail. Whether you opt to do the rock scramble or stay at the base, the expansive views and intricate rock formations are worth the hike.

Plan to take time to relax and eat a snack when you reach the top! There may be wind so dress accordingly. Always bring layers. The more prepared you are, the more fun you’ll have! This trail has everything you need for an afternoon of adventure. Be on the lookout for elk and other wildlife! Restrooms and picnic tables are available near trailhead.