East/West Regional Trail

The East/West Regional Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, featuring varied terrain. You'll encounter concrete, crushed stone, dirt, and sand surfaces. While many sections are flat and accessible, particularly in Highlands Ranch and Parker, there are also rolling hills and moderate inclines, such as the challenging Rueter-Hess Incline. The trail has an elevation gain of approximately 2,070 feet when traveling east to west and about 2,300 feet from west to east.

The East/West Regional Trail is an extensive multi-use pathway, approximately 27 to 28 miles long one way. It connects the communities of Highlands Ranch, Castle Pines, Lone Tree, and Parker in Douglas County.

You can expect diverse landscapes, including open grasslands and oak bluffs. A significant portion winds through the Highlands Ranch Backcountry. The scenery offers expansive views of open space leading to the foothills, panoramic vistas of Denver and surrounding suburbs, and impressive views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range in more remote sections. Wildlife sightings, such as elk, deer, and various birds, are common.

Yes, the trail features several notable points. These include the challenging Rueter-Hess Incline, Bluffs Overlook, Tepe Overlook, and Ridgeline High Point within Bluffs Regional Park for excellent views. Highlands Point, at 6,315 feet, offers a 360-degree view with a compass design and 'telescopes' pointing to major peaks. Zoe's Rest is a spiritual memorial near Highlands Point providing a shady respite and beautiful sunset views.

Parking is available at multiple access points along the trail. Some key locations include Redstone Park, Ridgegate Trailhead, Daniel's Gate Park, Grigs Trailhead, Redtail Park, Pronghorn Park, and Plum Valley Park. Some of these locations also offer horse trailer parking.

Yes, the East/West Regional Trail is dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail, making it a great option for enjoying the outdoors with your canine companion.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking. Summer can be hot, especially in unsheltered grassland sections, so starting early is advisable. Be aware of seasonal detours from March to September 2nd due to golden eagle breeding season, which protect sensitive habitats.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the East/West Regional Trail itself. However, if you access the trail through certain regional parks or open spaces, always check their specific regulations, as some may have their own rules or parking fees.

Yes, the trail is highly connected. It links several regional parks and open spaces, including Bluffs Regional Park, Daniel's Gate Park, Red-Tail Park, Pronghorn Park, and Plum Valley Park. It also extends eastward to connect with the 40-mile Cherry Creek Trail. Official trails along this route include sections of the Douglas County E/W Trail and the East/West Regional Trail.

Yes, amenities such as restrooms and water fountains are available at multiple access points along the trail. These can be found at locations like Redstone Park, Ridgegate Trailhead, Daniel's Gate Park, Grigs Trailhead, Redtail Park, Pronghorn Park, and Plum Valley Park.

Yes, hikers should be aware of annual detours that are typically in place from March to September 2nd. These detours are implemented to protect sensitive habitats during the golden eagle breeding season.