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BPX 2-Day: White Ranch Loop from White Ranch West TH


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BPX 2-Day: White Ranch Loop from White Ranch West TH

Easy loop hike in White Ranch Open Space close to Golden. Expansive views of ranch lands and varied wildlife habitats. Total distance is 5.5miles and 1,000ft elevation gain. High point is 7,500ft.

Important Jeffco Park Use Updates Jan-Dec 2025:
  • All users of Jeffco parks (both free trips and paid for courses) must carry with them a copy of the CMC-Jeffco Permit or a yellow permit tag 
  • The permit can be found at this link
  • Permit tags can be picked up at the CMC Basecamp office (T-Th 10am-6pm) 
  • ONLY ONE GROUP may use a trail system at a time. Group size is limited to 14 participants, including guides/instructors. 
  • A trail system includes that entire area of that park - ie, if a group begins a hike on the east side of North Table, another group may not hold another hike on the west side of North Table.
  • Blackout dates - No CMC trips may take place on the following dates: 
    • Memorial Day Weekend - May 24-26; Father’s Day – June 15;  Juneteenth – June 19; Independence Day Weekend – July 4-6; Labor Day Weekend – Aug 30-Sept 1 

Check with Jefferson County Open Space for reservations and campsite capacity restrictions.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 2-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members

Day 1: Drive to White Ranch West Trailhead. Hike the gently rising and falling Rawhide Trail loop to the Sourdough camping area (1.8 miles, 300ft ascent and 300ft descent).  Pit toilets and bear box storage are available at the campground. Optional short hike up the Rawhide trail behind the campground to a lovely viewing spot. This part of the trail loops back down to the camping area.

Day 2: Continue hiking the Rawhide trail back to the TH (3.5miles, 700ft ascent and 600ft descent). Option to explore more tails before driving home.

Driving Directions: 

White Ranch West Trailhead (25373 Belcher Hill Road, Golden CO, 80403)

General Requirements: 

No Campfires at any time. Gas stoves and grills ok. Bear Box storage provided at campground. Camping requires advance permit and fee.

Maps

Overall Route: https://trails.colorado.gov/routes/38002?t=eGVrzhNSgv7KMCCmlBBw

White Ranch Open Space https://www.jeffco.us/DocumentCenter/View/9387/White-Ranch-Park-Map

  • Suitable Activities: Backpacking
  • Seasons: June, July, August, September, October
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 5.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft
  • 7,500 ft
  • Land Manager: Jefferson County Open Space
  • Parking Permit Required: Other
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 16
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 16
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