Eagle Wind Trail

The Eagle Wind Trail starts at the Rabbit Mountain Trailhead within the Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain, near Lyons, Colorado. There is a parking area available at the trailhead.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use at the Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Boulder County Parks & Open Space website for the most current regulations: bouldercounty.gov.

The Eagle Wind Trail is approximately 6.45 kilometers (4 miles) long. For jogging, it typically takes around 49 minutes to complete the route, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The trail is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty for jogging. It includes a short, steep ascent from the parking area, followed by a relatively flat main loop section. While much of the surface is dirt, be prepared for some rocky and uneven sections, which can be a good challenge without intense inclines.

The terrain varies, starting with a short, steep climb. The main loop features a mix of smooth and rocky singletrack. It's primarily open grassland and scrubland, meaning significant sun exposure, but some ponderosa pine and juniper trees offer small pockets of shade. The trail can become muddy when wet, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, the Eagle Wind Trail is dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

You'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the Front Range, the Continental Divide, and the expansive Eastern Plains. Specific peaks like Meeker, Longs Peak, and the Twin Sisters Mountains are visible. The route also winds through wildflower-covered meadows and offers sweeping foothills views from the mesa edge. Don't miss the Rabbit Mountain viewpoint for some of the best scenery.

The Ron Stewart Preserve is known for its abundant wildlife. You might spot mule deer, coyotes, various bird species (including golden eagles, magpies, meadowlarks, and hawks), rock squirrels, and black-tailed prairie dogs. Elk are also present. Be aware that rattlesnakes may be active in the summer months.

The Eagle Wind Trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in spring. Summer can be hot due to minimal tree coverage, so an early start is advisable. Winter jogging is also possible, though conditions may vary with snow or ice. It's often less crowded than other popular trails in the region.

Yes, while the Eagle Wind Trail forms a primary loop, the route also passes through sections of the Indian Mesa Trail and the Little Thompson Overlook Trail, offering opportunities to explore more of the preserve.

Yes, the Eagle Wind Trail is a 'lollipop' loop trail. It begins with an out-and-back section that leads to a main loop, bringing you back to the starting point.