Matthews / Winters Park Trailhead — Attraction in Colorado

If you are on vacation like me and unused to hiking with much altitude, this is likely to be a challenge. If you can hike Dakota Ridge Trail, this should not be difficult. I do not live in Colorado and was unprepared for a hike in the mid 80s. Yes, I did have Gatorade and wore sunscreen. Higher elevations mean more water and sunscreen are needed unless you care to be dehydrated and/or sunburned. I started walking south on the trail with the intent to switch to the Dakota Ridge Trail once there. Had I been used to the elevation, I would have done just that. Instead, I walked a little more than half the trail and stopped at the highway. My friend was waiting for me. The trail is easy to follow except I did not know other trails intersected it. I had to make sure I stayed on the same trail. After you leave the parking lot and walk a little ways, 2 restrooms exist. Those are not visible from the vehicles. I continued walking but liked the idea. The trail is hilly and rocky with limited shade. Be ready for a challenge if you decide to hike or run this. Yes, I saw plenty of runners on a busy day. The next day had rain. If you wish to venture on a side trail, a historic cemetery exists. Plenty of good pictures can be taken while walking the trail. I started at the northern most parking lot. 2 others exist farther south plus at least 1 for Dakota Ridge Trail. At least half the trail has some...

Talk about OPEN SPACE this is it! Very nice place to trail or bike. Place for family to hang out by the creek and have picnic. Kids will have fun!

When you get back from your trail, hang out by the water. There’s like a hidden entrance on the right side where you can go inside the big trees and listen to the water and birds. Very relaxing.

Also, look or watch out for some deer they are there and snakes too. Parking is available at...

Don't forget your sunglasses or your lunch cause you will need them. For me i brought some good shoes cause there are rocks everywhere. When it came time for a rest i took one but look out for snakes they often have rattle snake and they bite watch out. There are no dews required but you must be willing to have a good time. Once in a while the park is closed so check online before you get here so you won't have to be...