Dakota Ridge Trail

Hiking along the ridge between Red Rocks Amphitheater and Green Mountain, this varied and wild trail can be used in either direction. The western access point is at Hogback Road and I-70, while eastern access is from Hogback Road across from the entrance to Red Rocks park. Climbing steeply from the Hogback Road, this doubletrack turns left and changes to singletrack near the top of the ascent. The singletrack then contours its way up to the ridge with incredible views of the red sandstone formations along the Front Range. Once the trail reaches the ridge, it becomes more rugged. The route is entirely rock, jutting out of the ground at various angles. Oftentimes, the surface is covered in a light dusting of sand. As you traverse the ridge to the south, the trail begins to descend. This portion of trail has many water bars which make for nice steps as you descend. Along the trail there are a few spots where you can find dinosaur fossils if you know where to look. If you hike the road at the end of the trail there are several well-marked spots with fossils showing in the rocks of the Hogsback.