The majority of the over 18,000 acres protected by conservation easements remain in private ownership and are not accessible to the public for hiking or outdoor recreation. We all benefit from these properties, however, because they will remain as open spaces free of development in perpetuity.
Recently, through partnerships with Douglas County Open Space, DLC has accepted conservation easements on public open space. This provides unique oppportunities to hike and explore nature close to home. Some areas also allow bicycles and horseback riding.
Below is a list of properties protected by DLC that are open to the public. For more specific information about access and recreational opportunities, please click on the “More Details” links that will take you to the Douglas County Open Space website.
Dawson Butte Ranch – The five mile Dawson Butte Trail travels through mostly forested areas with some open meadows and views of the Front Range Mountains. The trail follows gently rolling terrain. Optional bridal paths include over 60 horse jumps. More details.
DuPont Open Space – Near the historic town of Louviers. The property contains a cottonwood riparian forest, riparian shrub land, mixed foothill prairie, and rugged montane shrub land plant communities that are in good condition.More details.
Glendale Farm – Adjacent to I-25, this 145-acre property has native chokecherry and wild plum shrubs along an dry stream bed. The 1.6-mile natural surface trail winds up through Gambel oaks and onto a grassland plain with views of Pikes Peak and the Colorado Front Range. More details.
Hungry Horse Open Space – This 166-acre grassland is located four miles south of Parker along Cherry Creek and the Cherry Creek Regional Trail. Access the trail at the North Pinery Trailhead. More details.
Nelson Ranch Open Space – A 695-acre property located south of Roxborough State park behind the hogback. Include a variety of wildlife habitats. More details.
Pfeifer Open Space – This 7-acre parcel accomodates a portion of the Cherry Creek Regional Trail and preserves important wildlife habitat along the Cherry Creek. More details.
Pike Hill Open Space – This forested, 308-acre property rises from the western side of Nelso Ranch Open Space adn borders Pike National Forest. More details.
Spruce Mountain Open Space – Spuce Mountain is a large, tree-covered mesa that is visible from I25 and hikers will enjoy spectacular views from the top of the mesa. More details.
Woodlands Bowl – Located in the Woodlands neighborhood of Castle Rock, it is a key part of the local trail system. More details.
