The 7.9 mile Mountain Lion Loop Trail (which includes a .9 mile roundtrip excursion to Windy Peak) passes through ecologically diverse terrain highlighted by aspen groves, summer wildflowers, abundant wildlife and historical landmarks. This multi-use trail accommodates hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers and equestrians. The loop can be traveled in either direction with equal facility, but clockwise travel is recommended for its better morning light and favorable traffic patterns.

The Mountain Lion Loop Trail passes through wide open tall grass meadowns before rising to Windy Peak

The Mountain Lion Loop goes past the Tallman Ranch - originally homesteaded in 1876 by Anders Tallman, a Swedish immigrant

A butterfly rests on widflowers off trail

The trail can be wide and flat in some areas - making for easy hiking

The Tallman Ranch was added to the State Register of Historic Properties in 1995

The trail leads through typical Front Range open space - home to deer, fox, coyote, bobcat, black bear and mountain lion

Approacing storm clouds contrast the verdant landscape of the Mountain Lion Loop Trail

Various species of butterfly inhabit the Mountain Lion Loop area, taking advantage of abundant wildflowers

View from atop Windy Peak - afternoon storm clouds roll in

The backside of the loop descends through a thick Lodgepole Pine forest