Little Thompson Overlook Trail

The trailhead for this route is located at the Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain. You'll find a dedicated parking lot there, along with restrooms, a covered picnic area, and a kiosk providing maps and information.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the preserve beautiful for everyone.

The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Early summer is particularly beautiful when the hillside meadows are vibrant with wildflowers. However, be aware that rattlesnakes are common in the summer, so vigilance is key. The trail is mostly exposed, so consider cooler months or early mornings/late afternoons during warmer seasons.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain or to hike the Little Thompson Overlook Trail. It's free to enjoy.

The terrain is notably rocky, especially on the ascent to the overlook, with a constant supply of loose rocks. While some sections have gentle switchbacks, the grade can be rigorous. It's mostly exposed to the sun with limited shade and can be narrow in parts. Avoid hiking when wet, as the loose rocks can become very slippery.

From the Little Thompson Overlook, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas. You can see north, eastward across the plains, and down to the Little Thompson River in the valley below. On clear days, you might even spot the Flatirons and Longs Peak on the horizon. Strategically placed benches at the overlook invite you to sit and soak in the scenery.

The preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and various birds like magpies, meadowlarks, robins, bluebirds, sparrows, wrens, and hawks. Golden eagles can sometimes be spotted on the cliffs. Rattlesnakes are common in summer, so stay alert. The flora includes prickly poppies, locoweed, asters, larkspur, coral bells, sage, and stands of junipers and ponderosa pines.

Yes, the Little Thompson Overlook Trail is part of a larger network within the Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain. The route also passes through sections of the Eagle Wind Trail and the Indian Mesa Trail, offering options for longer hikes if you wish to combine them.

The full route, which includes the Little Thompson Overlook Trail, is approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. The hike to the overlook itself is about 1.5 miles one way.

One of the advantages of this trail is that it often offers beautiful views without the crowds commonly found on other nearby trails, providing a more peaceful hiking experience.

Given the trail's rocky and exposed nature, it's advisable to bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps trekking poles for stability on the loose terrain. Binoculars can enhance your wildlife and scenic viewing experience.