Florissant Fossil Beds Hiking Trails
   NPS Photo Petrified Forest Loop - 1 mile EASY Elevation Change: 65 ft.  NPS Photo Geologic Trail - 1 mile (one way) This self-guided trail highlights over a billion years of geologic history in the Florissant Valley. It passes over the ancient lake bed, crosses Teller County Rd. 1, then ascends past the remnants of a massive pyroclastic flow and ends at a scenic overview of the Florissant valley. From the visitor center, follow the Petrified Forest Loop to the junction of the Hornbek Wildlife Loop. NPS Photo Ponderosa Loop - 1/2 mile This wheelchair accessible trail starts behind the exhibit area. This self-guided trail enters the modern forest of ponderosa pines, aspen, douglas fir, and spruce trees.EASY - Elevation change: 50 ft.  NPS Photo Hornbek Wildlife Loop - 3.8 miles Following meadows, the trail to Hornbek Homestead crosses land once covered by ancient Lake Florissant. The return route overlooks the ancient lake and the mountain ranges beyond. Signs of wildlife are common.MODERATE Elevation change: 328 ft.  Cliff and Jean Dickey Sawmill Trail - 2.7 miles The varied terrain provides a good example of Colorado's Montane Life Zone. Forests of pine, spruce and fir, meadows frequented by elk, ridge tops viewing Pikes Peak, and shaded streams, make this a favorite hike. MODERATE Elevation change: 295 ft.Hans Loop - 1.4 miles The Hans Loop trail is an extension of the Sawmill Trail. Part of the trail follows a gentle ridge that provides vistas of Pikes peak and then drops into a drainage that passes the remnants of a rustic cabin. MODERATE Elevation change: 229 ft. NPS Photo Boulder Creek Trail - 2.8 miles This loop trail begins and ends in the ponderosa pine forest, but crosses diverse ecosystems. A portion of the trail skirts wet meadows, crosses a stream, and passes a formation of giant eroded granite boulders.MODERATE Elevation change: 295 ft.  NPS Photo Shootin' Star Trail - 1.6 miles (one way) Starting at the Barksdale Picnic area, this trail crosses a stream, follows old roadbed, and traverses meadows to travel through the ponderosa pine forest. The trail gets its name from an historic ranch. Look for signs of former agricultural activity.MODERATE Elevation change: 165 ft.  Cliff and Jean Dickey Twin Rock Trail - 2.3 miles (one way) This trail is accessed from the Shootin' Star Trail or the Hornbek Wildlife Loop. The trail features quiet views of rock formations, open meadows, aspen groves, riparian habitats, willows, and pond life. Signs of wildlife are common.MODERATE Elevation Change: 295 ft. To learn more about activities at the Monument, explore Things to Do. More info about the Park Website |
