Ute and Niobrara Loop Trail

Route Description for Ute and Niobrara Loop Trail

The Ute and Niobrara Loop Trail is a great walk in the Garden of the Gods. Though this trek does not travel directly through the sandstone spires and sculptures, it stretches instead along the outskirts of the park, revealing some of the best views of the looming bluffs. Note this path is entirely exposed, warranting epic vistas but extremely warm conditions in the summer months! Bring sun protection and pack plenty of water in when trekking in warm weather!

Embark on your adventure along the Ute and Niobrara Loop Trail from the trailhead off Ridge Road. From here, track the Niobrara Trail southeast to an intersection. Here, keep left and hook onto the Ute Trail. As you wander north, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the impressive rocks that decorate the landscape. Soon you will merge onto the Valley Reservoir Trail. You will quickly reach the trail’s end, here turn around and retrace your steps to the junction with the Ute Trail.

At this point, keep left, and you will be diverted back onto the Niobrara Trail. Enjoy distant views of the Front Range and follow this path all the way back to the trailhead.