Visitors can expect a brief hiking experience with limited shade and some noise due to proximity to Monarch Blvd. The area is known for deer and elk sightings during morning and evening walks, though access to certain loops requires residency permits and is seasonally restricted for wildlife migrations.
What to Expect:
🚶♂️ Quick hiking opportunities
🌿 Sparse shade and roadside trails
🦌 Frequent deer and elk sightings
🔒 Wildcat Mountain loops require Highlands Ranch residency and seasonal closures
Important Information:
– No detailed trail markings at trailhead
– Fenced areas with no trespassing signs in parts of the area
– Seasonal closures for wildlife migration on some loops
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🦌 Morning & Evening Wildlife: Visit early or late to maximize chances of seeing deer and elk near the trails.
🚫 Access Limitations: Some loops, like Wildcat Mountain, require residency permits and have seasonal closures.
🌳 Limited Shade: Prepare for minimal tree cover and sun exposure on hikes along Monarch Blvd.
📍 Trailhead Confusion: Some visitors report difficulty finding official trails due to fences and no trespassing signs.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Reviews highlight the area's appeal for quick hikes and wildlife sightings like deer and elk. However, several reviewers note the lack of clear trails and the presence of fences and no trespassing signs, which limits access and causes some frustration.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
📆 Best Times to Visit
For quieter hikes and better wildlife sightings, visit early mornings or late evenings, especially on weekdays.
