Heil Valley Ranch - Picture Rock Trailhead — Attraction in Four Corners States

Overall 4, lower for hiking just because it's so perfect for mountain biking that you have a ton of that. Everyone is always very respectful. Mountain bikers are supposed to yield to hikers which confuses us because it's so much simpler for a hiker to move aside and the biker typically needs to pass the hiker anyway. This particular occasion we were hiking and all the bikers were great but we did yield to them, we also had kids so they are slower too. Fun variety of bugs for the kids, tons of ants, beetles, butterflies, birds and small wildlife. The rain this year has just made the mountain side so lush and all the flowers in bloom are a sight to stop and enjoy. Really no shade, if you are biking to Left Hand there are some fun zig zags and some gnarly drops. If you're biking with inexperienced or small kids there are a few areas with a narrow trail. Restroom...

My wife and I (both 60) have been trying to get to this trail for a while... it did not disappoint. Just southwest out of Lyons (HWY 7 to Old St. Vrain Road and then Red Gulch Road) parking and bathroom on the west side of road, trail on the east side. You start on a man made gravel trail for about 3/4 mile before it turns into typical Heil Valley red sandstone and dirt. This trail is an out (5 miles) and back (5 miles) with two loops that can be added for another 5.5 miles (see added picture of trailhead map). We started around 8AM to try and beat the heat and possible congestion of runners, hikers, bikers and horseback. Everyone was cordial and were mindful of the rules of the trail. This is a well kept trail... I especially liked the hand laid sandstone trail portions (see pic's). We will be back as it gets cooler to extend the hike...

Front Range Gem. This trail can be crowded if your timing is off, but if you chose to get up with the sun and hit this trail early, you will find a special experience here. For trail running and mountain biking (both are allowed whenever the trail is open, contrary to another review) this trail offers a moderately strenuous and technical challenge with beautiful views. I've seen many mountain lion tracks on this trail, but never a cat. I'm sure they've seen me. Tons of deer and rabbits, and the occasional wild turkey flock. Enjoy this trail early. Link it up with the rest of Heil Ranch. Stay on the dirt and keep it...