The best running trails around Divide

The Aspen and School Pond Trail Loop offers a truly varied jogging experience through Mueller State Park, winding through dense conifer and aspen forests before opening up to rolling grasslands with views of Pikes Peak granite formations. You'll navigate a "roller coaster" terrain with undulating elevation changes, including some steep inclines, and pass by the tranquil School Pond. It's a moderate 3.8-mile (6.0 km) route with 436 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, perfect for a 44-minute workout that feels like a true escape into nature.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though a few key points are worth noting. The trail is part of Mueller State Park, which means pets are not permitted on the trails. While some sections are paved, the terrain is mostly gravel and doubletrack, and it's best to avoid muddy or snowy conditions due to the steep sections. The park's elevation at around 9,396 feet adds an extra layer of challenge for runners.

This trail is particularly renowned for its stunning fall foliage, when the aspen groves display vibrant colors, making it a prime destination during that season. It's also part of a larger network of over 50 miles of trails within Mueller State Park, intersecting with paths like the Aspen Trail and Ranger Ridge Trail, offering options for longer explorations if you wish to extend your run beyond the loop.

The Lost Pond Loop offers a serene jogging experience through dense conifer and aspen forests, primarily on a wide doubletrack gravel path. You'll wind your way to the namesake Lost Pond, a tranquil spot known for its reflective waters, especially stunning when the surrounding trees are dusted with snow. The varied terrain includes a steady incline after the pond, with some short, steeper sections, making it a rewarding run for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Accessing this trail is straightforward, with a dedicated Lost Pond Parking lot available within Mueller State Park. Given its less popular status, you can often enjoy a quiet run with minimal crowds. While enjoyable in any season, visiting during winter can offer particularly picturesque views of the pond and snow-covered trees.

This 2.8-mile (4.5 km) route, with 370 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 33 minutes to jog. It's part of the larger Mueller State Park trail system, which is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including rolling grasslands and prominent Pikes Peak granite formations, and is home to abundant wildlife like elk and mule deer.

The Cheesman Ranch and Elk Meadow Loop offers a refreshing jogging experience through diverse landscapes within Mueller State Park. You'll navigate natural surfaces and doubletrack trails, winding through beautiful aspen and pine groves that transition into open grassy meadows. Keep an eye out for stunning views of Pikes Peak and the chance to spot abundant wildlife like elk and mule deer, making this 6.2-mile (10.0 km) route feel like a true escape into nature.

To access this moderate trail, you'll need to pay a daily entrance fee for Mueller State Park. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. The route is generally accessible for jogging, taking about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete, but be prepared for some uphill segments and elevation changes.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail boasts historical elements, including the historic Cheesman Ranch and an old barn with equipment still standing. This combination of natural scenery, historical points of interest, and frequent wildlife sightings, all within a manageable 504 feet (154 metres) of elevation gain, makes it a distinctive and rewarding jogging option near Divide, Colorado.

The Black Bear, Osborn Homestead, and Golden Eagle Loop offers a fantastic jogging experience through the diverse landscapes of Mueller State Park. You'll navigate forested ridges and natural sections, with the path leading you past the historic Osborn Homestead cabin. This moderate 6.9-mile (11.2 km) route, featuring 982 feet (299 metres) of elevation gain, provides a great blend of natural beauty and a touch of history, making it a rewarding outing for those seeking a good workout in a scenic setting.

Planning your visit to this popular route is straightforward, though arriving early is always a good idea to ensure parking, especially on busy days. The trail is well-suited for a morning or afternoon jog, taking approximately 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. Be sure to bring water, as the varied terrain and elevation can make for a thirsty run, and always check park conditions before you head out.

Mueller State Park is renowned for its rich natural environment, including impressive Pikes Peak Granite formations and several ponds, and is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for elk, black bear, and various hawks that inhabit the area. This loop is an excellent way to experience the park's ecological diversity and historical elements, offering more than just a run.

The Blue River Trail offers a delightful, easy jogging experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll follow the winding Blue River, enjoying scenic off-road sections and pleasant water views that make the 2.9 miles (4.6 km) fly by. The path is generally smooth and accessible, providing a relaxing atmosphere for your run, with the Blue River Trail Turnaround serving as a clear point to pause and take in the scenery before heading back.

For planning your visit, this trail is known for its accessibility, often featuring multiple access points and parking options, making it convenient for a spontaneous outing. Given its easy difficulty and short duration of about 32 minutes, it's an ideal choice for a morning refresh or an afternoon cool-down. Always check local conditions, but this route typically doesn't require extensive preparation.

This particular Blue River Trail is a great example of how urban and natural environments can blend, offering a peaceful riverside run without venturing too far off the beaten path. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for beginner jogging routes or a family-friendly path, connecting you to the natural beauty of the river corridor. Its gentle terrain and consistent river views make it a local favorite for a quick dose of outdoor activity.