Hike the Morrison Slide in Matthews / Winters Park

Start at the trailhead located at 1103 County Hwy. 93 and enjoy a little warm up time by the creek that winds past wild plum, chokecherry, and willow trees. Matthews-Winters Park is filled with red rock formations that make for amazing scenery. It also has the remnants of a historic cemetery. The property was once part of the Town of Mount Vernon, gateway to mining regions to the west and boasted being the first Wells Fargo Express stop. As Colorado's political and economical hub shifted to Denver in the late 1870s and 1880s, the town disappeared.

For an ultra easy hike, the Village Walk Loop is a mile. For a 4.7 mile hike, take to Village Walk Trail to Red Rocks Trail. The trail winds along the side of the mountain. You'll see Morrison Slide rising in the distance. At 1.2 miles, you can take the switchbacks up the Morrison Slide Trail. Winter is a great time to do this trail because in summer, rattlesnakes are a pretty common sight. From the top of Morrison Slide, you get great views of Red Rocks, the Hogback, Denver, and eastern plains. Take the challenging descent on the other side of Morrison Slide to reach the Red Rocks Trail. Take that trail to the north for 1.6 miles and connect to the Village Ridge part of the Village Walk Loop to return to your starting point. There is very little shade on this hike, so don't forget the sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat. If you want more mileage, you can add in Dakota Ridge Trail for a great 6-mile loop.