The Rawhide Trail is a very popular loop hike within Colorado’s White Ranch Park, a beautiful open space area operated by Jefferson County. We love the Rawhide Trail for its sheer beauty, with expansive meadow views and peaceful evergreen forest strolls. The trailhead is only about 30 miles from Denver, making the Rawhide Trail an ideal day hike or trail run. At 5.3 miles in length and with about 900 feet of elevation gain, the trail is moderately challenging. Indeed, the park rates most Rawhide Trail segments as “More Difficult,” which is their middle difficulty rating.
HIKE REVIEW SERIES: Rawhide TRAIL
Rawhide Trail Guide
Route Information
- Round Trip Distance: 5.3 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 900 ft.
- Trail Type: Loop
- Trailhead: West Trailhead
- Coordinates: 39.818797, -105.286527
- Dogs Permitted?: Yes, on leash
Route Instructions
- Step 1 - Park at the White Ranch Park West Trailhead parking lot, just off of Belcher Hill Rd. There is no fee to park is this lot or to enter White Ranch Park.
- Step 2 - Beginning the loop hike in a counter-clockwise direction, bear right onto the Rawhide connector trail from the parking lot. The Longhorn connector trail starts at this point as well, so be sure to stay on the Rawhide Trail. [0.1 miles]
- Step 3 - The Rawhide Trail is clearly marked with wooden stakes and signs, so it is easy to follow the route. Continue along to the main segment of the Rawhide Trail and enjoy the expansive open meadow views to your left. Head downhill towards the intersection of Wrangler’s Run branch trail. [0.9 miles]
- Step 4 - Bear right to stay on the Rawhide Trail. Continue along the Rawhide Trail gaining slight elevation. Along the way, you’ll see the Ralston Reservoir peeking through the trees on your righthand side. Keep going until you reach the junction with the Waterhole Trail on your left. The Waterhole Trail is a branch trail that will take you to the Sourdough Springs Campground, should you choose to camp. [1.6 miles]
- Step 5 - Continue straight on the Rawhide Trail and loop around the Sourdough Springs Campground, eventually reaching another junction of the Waterhole Trail and a separate trail to campsites 1-4. [0.9 miles]
- Step 6 - As the trail continues, you’ll pass some backcountry campgrounds. Pass the campground area and head toward another junction of the Wrangler’s Run Trail, which will be on your left. You’ll start back towards the other side of the open meadow. [0.6 miles]
- Step 7 - Head past the Wrangler’s Run Trail and catch another fantastic view of the open meadows to your left. Reach the junction of the Belcher Hill Trail, which will be on your right. [0.8 miles]
- Step 8 - Stay on the Rawhide Trail and end the hike back in the White Ranch Park West Trailhead parking area. Enjoy the rest of your day! [0.4 miles]
PLANNING TIPS
Regulations
- Entrance Fees: None. White Ranch Park has no entry or parking fees.
- Park Hours: Daily; one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
- Pets: Dogs are permitted on the trail, but must be on leash.
- Camping: Permits are required; purchase via Jefferson County’s reservation system for $12.00 per night.
Getting There
White Ranch Park is located in Jefferson County, north of Golden, CO. The park has two trailhead parking lots: East Trailhead and West Trailhead. The Rawhide Trail is closest to the West Trailhead parking lot, commonly accessed via Golden Gate Canyon Rd. to Crawford Gulch Rd., with a sharp turn onto Belcher Hill Rd.
Parking
Park at the White Ranch West Trailhead Parking Lot. There are ample parking spots, but arrive early to secure a space, especially on weekends.
Weather Forecast
Always check the weather forecast before venturing into wilderness. Although White Ranch Park is not at an extremely high elevation, still plan ahead. If the weather is not ideal, plan your trip for another day. Safety first!
RECOMMENDED HIKING APPAREL AND GEAR
Ten Essentials
Even on a day hike, you should carry the appropriate type and amount of gear, clothing, food, water, and other essentials. For certain, make sure that your packing list includes the Ten Essentials.
Hiking Boots
The Merrell Moab hiking boot lineup offers a good balance between weight and foot protection. These are great for scrambles and are constructed with waterproof membranes so you don’t have to worry about damp feet if the weather turns or you have to splash through streams or puddles along the way.
Hiking Pants
We love prAna’s hiking pants for their quality and versatility. Indeed, their Zion (for men) and Halle (for women) are great on- and off-trail, especially for travel. Constructed with a durable UPF-50 fabric, a water-repellant finish, and utility pockets, these have become a staple in our wardrobe. Remember that it can be rather chilly at alpine elevations, so consider hiking pants rather than shorts (both for warmth and sun protection).
Base Layer Shirt
Patagonia’s lineup of capilene base layer t-shirts are lightweight and moisture wicking. For our hiking t-shirts and base layers, we often turn to Patagonia products for their craftsmanship, durability, and comfort. Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight shirts are versatile and great for hiking and/or trail running.
Hiking Fleece
Depending upon the time of year (and time of day), a fleece hoody or jacket may come in handy. We like the Patagonia R1 as a midweight, but light, option for chilly morning starts. Available as a hoody or jacket, the Patagonia R1 is quick drying, breathable, and extremely comfortable.
Hiking Socks
For most of our hiking needs, we like Darn Tough socks over the multitude of options on the market. They last long and have an ironclad guarantee. In addition, Darn Tough has a variety of designs, ankle lengths, and cushioning options to choose from. We like the Hiker quarter length with light cushioning.
Headwear/Face Covering
We often wear a Buff as a neck gaiter to protect from the sun, given its UPF 50 protective construction. Buffs are also a great option to use as a face covering on the trail. In fact, there are 12+ ways of wearing a Buff, so it’s a versatile piece of gear.
Day Pack
If you’re on the Rawhide Trail for a day hike or quick trail run, consider a super lightweight hydration vest. Nathan's Hydration Vests are minimalist packs with reasonable storage capacity and hydration reservoir compatibility.
Sunscreen
Sun Bum is our go-to sunscreen nowadays. We like its non-greasy feel and neutral fragrance. Any quality sunscreen will do, but Sun Bum SPF 30 is our choice for long days in the sun.
Trail Snacks
Taos Bakes, made in New Mexico, are some of the best tasting energy bars out there. Vegan and gluten-free, these bars pack in a nice dose of fiber and protein along with a touch of sweetness. Available in multiple varieties, such as Toasted Coconut/Vanilla Bean, Piñon Coffee/Dark Chocolate, and Pecan Praline/Maple Syrup.
Recommended books
For a well-rounded and more interpretive Colorado Open Space experience, we recommend picking up a few naturalist guides. An easy to use field guide for plants and birds will help identify species and further add to the enjoyment of your time outdoors.
- Plants of the Rocky Mountains
- Sibley Birds West: Field Guide to Birds of Western North America
- Roadside Geology of Colorado
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