Spruce Mountain Trail Upper Loop

The full loop is about 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles) long and generally takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. This can vary depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenic viewpoints.

The trail features natural surfaces with minimal rock. While the initial ascent to the mesa top involves switchbacks and can be a bit of a climb, the upper loop itself is relatively flat once you reach the rim. Be aware that the eastern part of the Service Road, especially on the descent, can be steep and rutted.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Please ensure your dog remains on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the open space enjoyable for everyone.

The Spruce Mountain Trail Upper Loop is a great option year-round. Its lower elevation and eastern geography often mean it has less snow than other evergreen forests, making it suitable for winter hiking. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery.

Currently, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Spruce Mountain Trail Upper Loop within Spruce Mountain Open Space. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Douglas County or Colorado State Parks websites for any updates before your visit.

Parking is available at the designated trailhead for Spruce Mountain Open Space. The trailhead provides direct access to the loop. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is recommended as the parking area can fill up.

The trail offers immediate access to stunning views. Key viewpoints include Greenland Overlook, Paddock's Point (which also has a plaque dedicated to forester Warren Craig Paddock), and the particularly scenic Windy Point, which is the furthest point west on the loop and provides expansive panoramas of the Front Range and Pikes Peak on a clear day. You'll also pass through beautiful spruce, evergreen, ponderosa pine, and Douglas fir forests.

While the initial ascent to the mesa top involves switchbacks and can feel like a 'hard' climb, the overall loop is considered moderately easy to 'approachable.' If you're a beginner with a reasonable level of fitness, you should find it manageable, especially once you're on the relatively flat upper mesa.

Yes, the route for the Spruce Mountain Trail Upper Loop utilizes sections of several other trails within the open space. You'll hike along parts of the Spruce Mountain Trail and the Eagle Pass Trail, among others.

Yes, once you reach the rock-rimmed flat top of Spruce Mountain, there is a picnic area available for hikers to enjoy. This makes it a great spot to take a break and enjoy the views.

Given the trail's moderate length and varied terrain, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and layers of clothing as conditions can change. Don't forget your camera for the panoramic views!