Hans Loop and Sawmill Trail

The trail offers varied terrain. You'll jog through pine, spruce, and fir forests, as well as open meadows. The Hans Loop portion transitions from a doublewide gravel path to a singletrack grass/dirt trail, especially on a steep descent. Expect rolling forested hills, gullies, and aspen forests. Some sections are exposed, and you might encounter tall grass.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, including the Hans Loop and Sawmill Trail. Service animals are an exception.

Spring and fall are ideal. In spring, you'll see diverse wildflowers like Iris, Indian Paintbrush, Blue Flax, Evening Primrose, and daisies. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While accessible in summer, parts of the trail can be exposed. Winter conditions can bring snow, making some sections challenging.

Yes, the Hans Loop and Sawmill Trail is located within Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, which has an entrance fee. You can find current fee information and any permit requirements on the official NPS website: nps.gov.

You can park at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument visitor center. The trail system, including the Hans Loop and Sawmill Trail, is accessible from there.

Keep an eye out for mule deer, ground squirrels, rabbits, and lizards, especially away from the visitor center. The trail also offers picturesque views, including vistas of Pikes Peak from gentle ridges. You'll pass through diverse flora like birch, spruce, pine, and fir trees, open fields, and unique rock outcroppings. While not directly on this loop, the nearby Ponderosa Loop features ancient petrified redwood stumps, a significant draw of the monument.

This route is generally considered a moderate run, requiring good fitness. The Hans Loop includes a steep descent and an average grade of 4% with a maximum of 11%. While not overly long, the varied terrain and elevation changes might be challenging for absolute beginners.

Yes, the Hans Loop and Sawmill Trail is part of a larger network within Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. The route you're jogging also passes through sections of the Hornbek Wildlife Loop, Petrified Forest Loop, Geologic Trail, and Ponderosa Loop.

Yes, you'll find gentle ridges along the Hans Loop that offer picturesque vistas of Pikes Peak. The diverse forests, meadows, and unique rock outcroppings also serve as natural landmarks throughout your run.

Given the varied terrain and potential for exposed sections, bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is advisable. Sturdy jogging shoes with good grip are recommended for the gravel, dirt, and potentially steep sections. A map or GPS device is also helpful for navigation within the park's trail system.

The Hans Loop and Sawmill Trail, as described, forms a comprehensive loop, allowing you to experience the park's backcountry without retracing your steps.