Picture Rock Trail - 10.4 Miles Round-Trip

The Picture Rock Trail is located on the north side of Heil Ranch in Lyons, Colorado.

This newly built trail leads south into Heil Ranch proper, which until recently could only be accessed from its south entrance off of Lefthand Canyon Drive.

The Picture Rock Trail now connects the multi-use trail networks of Hall and Heil Ranch. Hikers, runners and mountain bikers will enjoy mild grades, smooth track, miles of open space and a variety of wildlife:

The trail begins on smooth single track through a wavy mix of feathergrass, little bluestem and big bluestem. It rises steadily on a winding course through a spacious valley dotted with yucca, cacti, pinyon and juniper.

Heavily vegetated gulches carve through the area, riparian corridors that attract wildlife and serve as natural thoroughfares. Views of Hall Ranch and its Lyon Formation sandstone improve as you climb.

The trail reaches a picnic area in the mid-valley where juniper crowds the path (1.95 miles : 5,727'). A meandering path leads into the upper valley, where the landscape opens considerably (2.7 miles : 5,920'). Look for deer, elk, coyote, fox, and turkey in this rolling expanse.

The trail edges to the west side of the valley and threads dense timber on a more rugged track (3.5 miles : 6,052'). You'll reach a Trail Narrows sign at 4.2 miles (6,170'), but see little difference beyond this point.

The Picture Rock Trail moves steadily to its connection with the Wild Turkey Trail (5.2 miles : 6,392'), a newly created loop that continues through Heil Ranch proper.

Complete the 2.9 Wild Turkey Loop Trail for a 13.3 mile outing, or use it to connect with the Wapiti Loop Trail for additional route and distance options.

Heil Valley Ranch is home to over 50 mammal species including deer, elk, bobcat, bear and mountain lion.Rattlesnakes are drawn to prairie dog villages and sunny outcrops, and serve as a good reminder to remain on designated trails at all times.

Golden eagles and prairie falcons nest on sandstone cliffs over these valleys, while contiguous wooded areas are favored by northern goshawk and Cooper's hawk. Turkey are abundant at Heil Ranch, and frequently seen throughout the year.