Ridgeline Open Space

Ridgeline Open Space is a 367-acre natural area in Castle Rock with hiking and wildlife viewing close to town. It protects wildlife habitat and is open to the public, with mesa-top trails and wide views.

Trails

13.5 miles of trails, counting connections and feeder trails, for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Some are easy walks and some are harder climbs; the ridge-top sections have the longest views.

Wildlife

• Mule deer and elk
• Coyotes and foxes
• Raptors, including red-tailed hawks and golden eagles
• Prairie dogs in designated colonies
• Songbirds and waterfowl

Geology and views

The mesa formations record millions of years of geological history. From the ridgeline trails you can see:

• Pikes Peak and the Front Range
• The Castle Rock butte
• The Denver skyline
• The plains to the east

Conservation

The land was kept from development to hold open wildlife corridors and to give residents open land close to home.

When to go

• Spring: wildflowers, and the wildlife is active
• Fall: golden grasses and elk activity
• Winter: few people and clear views
• Early morning: wildlife is easiest to see