Evergreen Welcomes Back Hikers with Two New Loop Trails
After an eight-year hiatus, the beloved Elk Meadow Park in Evergreen has triumphantly reopened a significant portion of its land, now featuring two brand-new loop trails. This highly anticipated restoration brings back a vital outdoor space for Denver locals and visitors, offering miles of scenic hiking paths and breathtaking mountain vistas.
A Long-Awaited Return to Elk Meadow Park
Once a hugely popular dog park, the area at Elk Meadow Park sadly closed in 2017 due to pressing environmental concerns like water contamination and severe erosion. For nearly a decade, the community awaited its revival. During this extensive closure, dedicated crews undertook a large-scale restoration and revegetation project, meticulously working to heal the land and prepare it for safe public enjoyment once more. The reopening marks a significant milestone for outdoor recreation in the Denver foothills, inviting everyone to rediscover the natural beauty of Evergreen.
Discover the New Trails: Jenkins Peak and Bobcat Loop
The revitalized area now boasts two distinct loop trails, accessible from the new Stagecoach Trailhead. To begin your adventure, simply walk across Stagecoach Boulevard from the parking lot, where you’ll find the trailhead sign and a helpful map.
The Majestic Jenkins Peak Trail
The Jenkins Peak Trail offers a more challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience, winding through dense forest and descending into a picturesque canyon. As you head downhill, you’ll be treated to stunning views before reaching the main loop after about one-third of a mile. For the best experience, consider hiking the loop clockwise to avoid a steep stair climb on your way out.
One of the trail’s standout features is a beautifully curving staircase with 70 steps, a true highlight for many hikers. After the stairs, a few rock steps lead to a small creek, followed by an uphill climb to the turnoff for Jenkins Peak. A 0.7-mile ascent with a 200-foot gain will take you to the 8,000-foot summit, where panoramic views await. From the peak, you can gaze down into the valley and outward to Mount Blue Sky, a sight that hikers describe as “amazing.” Completing the loop and returning to the trailhead covers a total distance of approximately 3.4 miles.
The Serene Bobcat Loop
Starting from the same Stagecoach Trailhead, the Bobcat Loop Trail provides a shorter, more accessible option. While still forested, the canopy isn’t as thick, allowing for excellent views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. A scenic switchback leads you to the loop portion of the hike, which is just half a mile long. You can hike the loop in either direction, but many prefer going counterclockwise to keep any road noise near the end of the journey. This loop can be enjoyed on its own or added as an extra mile after tackling the Jenkins Peak Trail, offering a total distance of about 1 mile.
Important Information for Your Hike
Whether you’re exploring the Jenkins Peak Trail or the Bobcat Loop, remember these key details:
- Dogs are welcome on both new trails, but must be kept on leash at all times.
- As of their opening, these trails may not yet be listed on popular hiking apps like AllTrails.
Trail Comparison
To help you plan your Evergreen hiking adventure, here’s a quick comparison of the two new trails:
| Trail Name | Approximate Length | Key Features | Dog Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jenkins Peak Trail | 3.4 miles (total) | Forests, canyon, 70-step staircase, 8,000-ft Jenkins Peak summit views (Mount Blue Sky) | Leashed |
| Bobcat Loop | 1 mile (total) | Forested, views of surrounding peaks/valleys, gentler ascent | Leashed |
Getting There and What’s Next
The Stagecoach Trailhead remains in its original location, making it easy to find. From I-70, take Highway 74/Evergreen Parkway for about 5.4 miles to Stagecoach Boulevard. Drive another 1.2 miles, and the trailhead will be on your right. The trailhead features maps and restrooms, providing convenience for all visitors. For GPS users, the address 32281 Stagecoach Boulevard in Evergreen will guide you directly there.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where are the new trails located?
The new trails are located in Elk Meadow Park in Evergreen, Colorado, accessible from the new Stagecoach Trailhead. - Are dogs allowed on the new trails?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the new trails but must be on a leash. - How long are the new trails?
The Jenkins Peak Trail is approximately 3.4 miles in total, and the Bobcat Loop is about 1 mile in total. - Why was Elk Meadow Park closed for so long?
The popular dog park area was closed in 2017 due to water contamination and erosion, leading to a significant restoration effort. - What amenities are available at the trailhead?
The Stagecoach Trailhead offers maps of the new trails and public restrooms.
With its extensive restoration complete and two new loop trails open, Elk Meadow Park in Evergreen is ready to once again become a cherished destination for Colorado hikers. Grab your hiking boots, leash up your furry friend, and explore these stunning additions to our local outdoor recreation scene!
Evergreen Elk Meadow Reopens Two New Loop Trails
