Front Range Ridge via Douglas Fir Trail

Front Range Ridge via Douglas Fir Trail is a short but steep hike located in Blodgett Open Space. This trail leads to a high ridge with spectacular views. This out and back hike is 4.8 miles long and gains 2,231 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from the Blodgett Open Space parking lot off of W Woodmen Rd. There are portable toilets available here. Begin hiking south on Red Squirrel Trail. You will be hiking gradually uphill amongst trees and shrubs. After 0.1 miles, you will come to a junction and go right. You will reach two more junctions after another 0.1 miles. Go right at the first junction and left at the second junction. Continue on Red Squirrel Trail for 0.3 more miles before reaching a junction. Go left here to take Douglas Fir Trail.

Continue hiking uphill as the trail steepens. After 0.1 miles, you will come to a junction and stay right. Along this section of trail, you will have periodic views of Blodgett Peak and the city of Colorado Springs. Another 0.2 miles will bring you to another junction. Stay right here. You will encounter another junction 0.2 miles down the trail. Go right to stay on Douglas Fir Trail. Continue hiking up the steep trail amongst coniferous trees. After 0.6 miles, the officially maintained trail ends. Continue along the well worn social trail. The trail continues uphill and emerges from the trees after 0.4 miles. Trek another 0.4 miles to reach the top of Front Range Ridge. From here, you will have great views of Pikes Peak and Ormes Peak. Many other Front Range peaks will also be visible. After you have taken ample time to rest and enjoy the views, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the parking lot.

Blodgett Open Space is open for hiking 5am-9pm November through April and 5am-10pm May through October. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail.