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DIRECTIONS: From Nederland, CO, head south on Hwy 72 (Peak to Peak Highway) and turn left (east) onto Magnolia Road. Follow Magnolia Road east for 1.25 miles to the trailhead on the left (north) side of the road. There is no parking are but you can park on the side of the road or off a dirt side road near a locked gate.
Reynolds Ranch in Boulder County, not to be confused with Reynolds Park in Jefferson County, is a wonderful hiking area just south of Nederland, CO. This is a great area to hike in the spring as it drys out faster than the higher elevation areas and in the fall the area's many young aspen groves are spectacular.
The Reynolds Ranch Trail is a terrific little hike with a big view at the end. The trail follows an old utility line right-of-way and is, literally, a straight shot from the trailhead to the viewpoint. Along the way you hike up and down hills, some of them steep, through pine and aspen forest. Various other official and social trails branch off from the Reynolds Ranch Trail but just stay straight. The only deviation from a straight line comes near the end when the trail bends to the west across a hillside. Follow the trail for about 20 feet then cut back on a switchback to the straight line. When you leave the forest after about 3/4 of a mile, you are treated to views of the surrounding hillside. The trail curves around the hill as it rises to the summit. This is the destination viewpoint which offers views of the Indian Peaks and the Peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park towering over Barker Reservoir and the town of Nederland. For the return trip, just follow the straight line trail back to the trailhead or explore some of the other trails that branch off. For a hike of less than 2 miles roundtrip, the trail has a lot to offer. This is a good trail for kids or just a quick visit to the Nederland area. Enjoy! |
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