Upper Meadows, Ridge, Ponderosa, and Chamberlain Loop

The Upper Meadows, Ridge, Ponderosa, and Chamberlain Loop is a moderately challenging hike located in Stratton Open Space near Colorado Springs. This hike explores a wide variety of terrain in Stratton Open Space. This loop is 3.7 miles long and gains 472 feet of elevation.

This hike starts from Ridgeway Ave Parking Area. There are no amenities at the trailhead. Begin hiking north on Upper Meadows Trail. After 0.2 miles, you will come to a junction and turn right. Hike gradually uphill for 0.2 miles to reach a junction and turn left onto Ridge Trail. As you hike uphill, you will have periodic views of various Front Range Peaks. Another 0.1 miles will bring you to a junction. Go right here. Continue on the trail as it switches back up the hill. After 0.3 miles, you will come to a junction and go right onto Ponderosa Trail. 

This section of trail is relatively flat. 0.4 miles of hiking will bring you to another junction. Turn left to take the Arroyo Grande Trail. You will be hiking uphill again. Another 0.3 miles will bring you to a junction. Go straight to stay on Arroyo Grande Trail. Continue on this trail for 0.2 miles before turning left onto Chamberlain Trail. You will now be hiking downhill. Go left at the next junction in 0.2 miles to stay on the trail. After another 0.4 miles, turn left onto Ridge Trail. You will now pass by South Suburban Reservoir. Continue onto a dirt road and follow it around the reservoir. This trail will lead you back to Upper Meadows Trail. Turn right on this trail and return to the trailhead.

Stratton Open Space is open for hiking year round from 5am-9pm. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail.