Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space Trail features a well-maintained 5-mile loop through pine groves and open meadows with moderate climbs suited for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Picnic tables and porta potties are available, with dog-friendly leash rules and plenty of free parking including wheelchair accessible spots.
What to Expect:
🚶♂️ Easy to moderate 5-mile loop trail
🐎 Popular with horse riders, mountain bikers, and hikers
🧺 Picnic tables and benches along the trail
🚻 Porta potties available at trailhead
🐕 Dogs allowed on leash; be cautious around horses
Important Information:
– Opening Hours: 6 AM to 9 PM daily
– Parking: Free lot with some wheelchair accessible spaces
– Restrooms: Portable toilets on site
– Pets: Leash required; consider horse interactions
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
🐎 Horse-Friendly Trails: Perfect spot for horseback riders; expect horse traffic and some manure on paths.
🌄 Visit Early or Late: For peaceful hikes and photos, mornings or late afternoons provide cooler temps and solitude.
🧺 Picnic Ready: Enjoy multiple picnic tables and benches along the loop for rest breaks and meals.
🚻 Restroom Facilities: Porta potties are clean and located near parking areas for convenience.
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise the scenic, well-maintained trails that accommodate hiking, biking, and horseback riding. They enjoy the peaceful natural setting, picnic amenities, and ample parking. Occasional mentions of deep sand near trail ends and horse manure on paths highlight some shared trail-use realities but do not diminish the overall positive experience.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
