The Lichen Loop Trail is an easy, pedestrian-only trail that leads through a sloping meadow and around a small ridge. Deer and summer wildflowers are common. The Lichen Loop is ideal for families, an after-work stroll or a short trail run. For a longer hike at Heil Valley Ranch, try the Wapiti Trail, which leads to the Ponderosa Loop and a 7.6 mile round-trip hike.

The Lichen Loop Trail is ideal for families with small children

Mature mule deer buck antlers will have 8-10 points, including the brow tines

Western Wallflowers are an important food source for caterpillars

Natural fires and selective cutting at Heil Ranch are moving to restore healthy tree densities and meadows

Remnants of a 'lime kiln' made of Lyons sandstone

Charred mesa tops are a reminder of a wildfire in Heil Ranch

Aromatic pine trees line the Lichen Loop Trail

While certainly a tempting single-track, no biking is allowed on Lichen Loop

Interpretive signs explain the geology of the Lichen Loop Trail

Looking south towards the Boulder Front Range

A fence and fire road separates the Lichen Loop from the Wapiti Trail