Metzler Family Open Space offers visitors a quiet escape with flat gravel trails suitable for all skill levels, including kids and strollers. Highlighted by diverse landscapes such as ponderosa forests, scrub oak ridges, and meadows, it provides ample birdwatching, wildlife views, and panoramic sights of nearby landmarks.
What to Expect:
🌲 Gentle, well-marked gravel trails for hiking and running
🐕 Dog-friendly with respectful visitors
🦌 Wildlife viewing including deer and birds
🛋️ Scenic rest spots along the way
🅿️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Important Information:
– Operating Hours: Daily 5 AM to 11 PM
– No fees or reservations required
– Trash bins can overflow; plan accordingly
– Trails can be shared with mountain bikers; stay alert
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
🚶♂️ Beginner Friendly Trails: The gravel paths are flat and easy to navigate, perfect for families with kids or stroller users.
🌿 Diverse Habitats: Expect a mix of ponderosa pines, scrub oak, and meadows providing rich birding and wildlife sightings.
🛋️ Rest Spots: Multiple scenic rest areas offer pleasant break points along the trails.
🐐 Watch for Goats: Private lands nearby feature colorful goats, visible from some viewpoints.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise the area's peaceful trails, scenic views of the Rockies and landmarks, and its suitability for families and beginners. The mix of wildlife and natural beauty receives high marks, though several note the need for more frequent trash pickup.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
