Hall Ranch Loop: Nighthawk and Bitterbrush Trail

The primary access point for the Hall Ranch Loop is the Hall Ranch Trailhead. It's a popular destination, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended to secure a parking spot.

No, dogs are not permitted on this trail. Please leave your furry friends at home when visiting Hall Ranch Open Space.

The trail system is open year-round, but conditions vary. Spring and winter offer good opportunities for wildlife sightings, particularly deer and elk, due to the bitterbrush plant. However, be prepared for potential crowds on weekends, especially during peak seasons.

As of current information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access Hall Ranch Open Space or to jog this loop. However, it's always a good idea to check the Boulder County Parks & Open Space website for any updates before your visit.

The terrain is diverse and challenging. It starts with a well-maintained, wide path on the Nighthawk Trail, gradually transitioning to singletrack with rocks and roots. The Bitterbrush Trail features a notable 'technical rock garden' with volcanic rocks and slabs, requiring careful footing. Expect gritty surfaces due to granite formations, with rocky sections interspersed throughout.

The initial 4.5 miles of the Nighthawk Trail present a steady, almost continuous uphill climb. However, the most technically challenging section is the 'Rock Garden' on the Bitterbrush Trail. This part is known for its steep, advanced rock features and is sometimes described as a 'double black diamond' for its difficulty.

You'll experience expansive meadows, towering buttes, and Pinyon pines. Higher elevations on the Nighthawk Trail offer panoramic 180-degree views, including Longs Peak and Rocky Mountain National Park. The landscape features rolling grasslands, sandstone buttes, vivid red rocks, and lush green trees. The Bitterbrush Trail provides striking views of Hat Rock and Indian Lookout Mountain.

The area is rich in wildlife. You might spot deer and elk, especially in winter and spring, as the bitterbrush plant is a vital food source for them. The Nighthawk Trail is named after the common nighthawk, a confirmed breeder in the area, so keep an eye out for various birds as well.

The estimated duration for jogging this 14 km (8.7 mile) loop is approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes, according to komoot's calculations. However, this can vary significantly based on your fitness level and how much time you spend navigating the technical sections.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll jog along parts of the Hall Ranch, Bitterbrush Trail, Nelson Loop Trail, and Night Hawk Trail. The Nelson Loop is one of the trails you'll intersect.

Yes, a key feature for joggers is that the Nighthawk Trail is designated as hiker-only, providing a potentially more tranquil experience free from mountain bike traffic. However, other parts of the loop, such as the Bitterbrush and Nelson Loop, are multi-use trails open to bikes and horses.