The best walks and hikes around Johnson Village

Explore the Midland, Bacon Bits and Sausage Link Trail Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 5.9 miles (9.5 km) with 367 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain. This loop takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete, offering a blend of historic railroad grades and flowing singletrack. As you hike, you'll enjoy open vistas to the west, revealing the snow-capped Sawatch Range and the impressive Collegiate Peaks, along with views of the Arkansas Valley and striking boulders.

When planning your visit, you can find parking for the Midland, Bacon Bits and Sausage Link Trail Loop at various trailheads within the Midland Trail System. Dogs are welcome and allowed off-leash on the Bacon Bits section, making it a great option if you're hiking with your canine companions. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially for winter weather, as mountain conditions can change quickly.

This trail offers a unique journey through rolling hill country, where you can spot remnants of the old Midland Railroad, adding a historical dimension to your outdoor adventure. Keep an eye out for Mount Princeton, often visible along the Bacon Bits section, providing a stunning backdrop to your hike and highlighting the diverse landscapes of the Fourmile Travel Management Area.

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure along A Fistfull of Dollars and Camp Elevation South Trail, a route that offers expansive views across the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. This 5.6-mile (9.0 km) journey features a gentle elevation gain of 380 feet (116 metres), making it a manageable outing for most hikers. You can typically complete the entire loop in about 2 hours and 26 minutes. As you traverse the path, you will encounter open landscapes dotted with small bushes and occasional pine patches, providing limited shade but clear sightlines. Look out for the majestic Collegiate Peaks, including Mount Princeton and Mount Antero, which dominate the horizon. Exposed rock outcrops add character to the terrain, especially when framed by snow-capped peaks in the spring.

When planning your visit, be aware that this is a popular multi-use trail, so you will likely share the path with mountain bikers and equestrians. You can begin your hike from either the Collegiate Peaks Overlook or the Midland Trailhead. If you choose the Collegiate Peaks Overlook, please note that a day-use fee might apply. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, but remember to keep them leashed and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

This trail is particularly notable for its impressive panoramic vistas, offering a consistent backdrop of the Collegiate Peaks throughout your journey. In addition to the grand mountain views, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and lizards, which are often spotted along the route. The open landscape, though offering limited shade, provides a sense of vastness and connection to the natural environment, making it a distinctive experience in the region.

Embark on a moderate hike along the historic Midland Railroad Grade, covering 8.8 miles (14.2 km) with a total elevation gain of 978 feet (298 metres). This route, estimated to take 3 hours and 54 minutes, guides you through a landscape dotted with piñon pines, following the gentle ascent of the old railway path. As you progress, you'll be treated to striking vistas of the Collegiate Peaks, including prominent summits like Mt. Princeton, Mt. Yale, and Mt. Columbia.

Accessing the Midland Railroad Grade is straightforward, with parking generally available at various trailheads located near Buena Vista. This makes it a convenient option for a day out. You won't need any special permits or be charged fees to enjoy this trail, making it an accessible choice for hikers of all experience levels, including families.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. As you hike, you'll encounter remnants from the old railroad era, offering glimpses into the past. The path itself, while mostly smooth, includes occasional short, rocky dips into gullies where old trestles once stood, adding an interesting dimension to your journey through this historic corridor.

Embark on the Cottonwood Pass Scenic Drive, a difficult hiking route stretching 58.1 miles (93.5 km) from Buena Vista to Altmont. You will experience a significant elevation gain of 4952 feet (1509 metres) over an estimated 25 hours and 38 minutes of hiking. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from winding singletrack in pine and aspen forests to exposed alpine tundra above the treeline. As you ascend, you will be rewarded with expansive 360-degree views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Sawatch Range, especially from the summit of Cottonwood Pass. Keep an eye out for scenic water features like Rainbow Lake and various beaver ponds along the way.

Planning your visit requires attention to seasonal conditions, as the pass typically closes due to heavy snowfall. The best time for hiking this route is generally between June and October. While the drive to the pass is fully paved, ensuring accessible trailheads, always check current conditions before you head out. You can find pit toilets at the Avalanche Trailhead parking area, and dogs are generally welcome on the trails, though leashes may be required in wilderness sections.

This challenging journey connects the towns of Buena Vista and Altmont, offering a true high-mountain experience through the San Isabel and Gunnison National Forests. The route provides a unique opportunity to traverse a historic mountain pass on foot, showcasing the rugged beauty of Colorado's central Rockies. You will encounter a variety of ecosystems, from dense forest to the stark beauty of the alpine tundra, making it a memorable adventure for experienced hikers.