Rueter-Hess Incline offers a moderately challenging 1-mile loop featuring about 140 steps on one side and a gravel/dirt trail on the return. Visitors can enjoy ample free parking, well-marked paths, gender-neutral restrooms, and a dog-friendly environment with leashing restrictions on the incline steps.
What to Expect:
🚶 Moderate 1-mile loop trail with challenging steps
🐕 Dogs allowed on trails but prohibited on the incline steps
🚻 Gender-neutral and public restrooms (porta potties) at the parking lot
🚗 Free on-site gravel parking lot with plenty of spaces
🌅 Scenic views overlooking the reservoir and Rockies
Important Information:
– Operating Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM daily
– Dogs must be leashed on trails; no dogs on incline steps
– Porta potties available but no full facility restrooms
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
🏞️ Scenic Views Reward: The top of the incline offers great panoramic views of Parker and the surrounding Front Range, perfect for photo stops.
🐕 Dog Restrictions: Dogs are welcome on trails if leashed, but they are prohibited on the incline stairs themselves for safety reasons.
🚶 Multiple Loop Options: Besides the incline steps, hikers can choose the longer gravel loop to protect knees on descent and extend the workout.
💧 Bring Water and Sun Protection: The trail lacks shade, so carrying water and wearing sun protection is recommended for hot days.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Rueter-Hess Incline receives high praise for its accessible yet challenging one-mile loop with scenic reservoir views. Visitors consistently enjoy the ample free parking, well-maintained trail, and dog-friendly policies, though dogs are not allowed on the incline steps. The presence of porta potties and well-marked paths adds convenience. One critical note from a small minority relates to a past chlorine gas leak near the water plant causing respiratory discomfort, but this is not a frequent complaint.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
