There are no upcoming dates for this event.
Have you ever wanted to explore new trails in our beautiful mountain community, but didn’t want to hike by yourself? You’re not alone! Our Social Hikes provide a casual opportunity to find new hiking buddies! These hikes will be just as much about the talking as they are the walking, and are a great opportunity to meet like-minded folks who love nature and the outdoors.
This program is FREE, but registration is required.
What to Expect:
- We will be meeting at the main parking lot at Flying J Ranch Park. We will be walking the Shadow Pine Loop trail for approximately 60 minutes.
- Expect a loose and casual walk with passive interpretation and plenty of time for conversation. Participants are encouraged to walk at their own pace and are welcome to leave whenever you need or want to.
- These walks are open to all ages – families are welcome!
- We can split into two groups depending on participants’ preferences for walking speeds. If you connect with a group and would like to walk faster/slower than our guide, please feel free to do so!
What to Bring:
- Please wear comfortable hiking shoes and weather appropriate clothing! We will hike in rain or shine, so check the forecast in advance. (In the event of severe weather, participants will be notified of any cancellation in advance of the program.)
- Be sure to bring a water bottle and a day pack if you’d like!
- Hiking poles are a good idea, but certainly not necessary. Remember, our pace will be loose and casual!
- Binoculars, field guides, and cameras are always welcome!
PHOTOGRAPHY POLICY
Attendance at Evergreen Audubon programs and events constitutes consent to be photographed for use in print and electronic media. Images will not be identified using full names without written approval from the individual.
If you would prefer that your photo (or your children’s photo) not be used, please email or call our Education & Outreach Director, Emma Vasicek.
EOD@EvergreenAudubon.org | 303-330-0489
Venue: Flying J Ranch
Address:
Description:
Trailhead:
9509 County Hwy. 73
Conifer 
The Flying J Ranch is managed by Jeffco Open Space. It is 422 acres of mixed forest, meadow, and wetland that is home to numerous bird and mammal species.
“Although the runway built by former landowner and pilot Capt. John Schoonhoven may be overgrown, Flying J Ranch Park remains a take-off site for natural exploration. Healthy meadows, forests and wetlands provide habitat for songbirds, raptors and wintering elk.
Enjoy a peaceful three-mile loop among old-growth lodgepole pine, ponderosas and Douglas fir. Flying J Ranch is a great place for picnicking in rustic timber shelters, as well as a favorite destination for snowshoeing.
Situated close to Flying J Ranch Park was the migration route known as the Ute Trail, which was used by Native Americans for centuries. Toll roads were later built nearby as early Euro-American prospectors and homesteaders needed a passageway through the foothills.”
Getting There
9509 County Highway 73, Evergreen 
Travel south from Evergreen on County Highway 73 for 6.8 miles to the main trailhead entry road. From US Highway 285 at Aspen Park, take Barkley Road to County Highway 73. Turn north and travel to the main trailhead entrance.