Hiking the Ponderosa Loop Trail

One of the highlights of the trail is a modern tree growing out of a petrified redwood stump

The Ponderosa Loop Trail is a 1/2 mile long, accessible, trail located behind the visitor center at Florissant Fossil Beds. This is a short, easy, and peaceful walk through a mostly Ponderosa pine forest. It features numerous exhibits along the trail that interpret the natural history of the area. One of the main features on the trail is a modern Ponderosa pine tree growing out of a petrified redwood tree stump.  

Details

Duration

10-30 Minutes

This is a short trail which can be hiked relatively fast. If you take your time to read exhibits and stop and contemplate the scenery it might take up to 30 minutes. 

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

This is an easy, 1/2 mile, self guided (trailside exhibits) trail that is easily accessed behind the visitor center. The trail winds through a Ponderosa pine forest and features exhibits along the way. One of the highlights of the trails is a massive petrified redwood tree stump with a modern Ponderosa pine growing out of it. 

Age(s)

0-90

This trail is easily accessible to strollers and/or carrying a baby in the backpack and is also accessible and can accomodate wheel chairs, walkers, and/or anyone who needs easy grades and a short path.  

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on any of the trails at Florissant Fossil Beds. They are allowed, on a leash, in the parking lot and/or picnic area next to the parking lot in front of the visitor center. 

Activity Fee

Yes

The fee to enter the park is $10.00 per adult (16 and older). Anyone 15 and younger is free. Interagency passes are accepted and will get the passholder and three other adults into the park. 

Location

Ponderosa Loop Trail

This 1/2 mile accessible trail can be found behind the visitor center at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.  

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The Monument is open year round and the Ponderosa Loop Trail is also open year round. It generally can be hiked year round, however, in the winter there may be snow and ice. 

Time of Day

Day

The Monument is open from 9 - 5 during the spring, summer, and fall. During the late fall/winter/early spring the Monument is open 9 - 4:30.  

Accessibility Information

The 1/2 mile Ponderosa Loop Trail has been graded for accessibility and is composed of compacted finely crushed rock. The trail width is about 6 feet. The trail can be accessed by going through the visitor center and finding the trail head just beyond the outdoor exhibit area which is behind the visitor center. The parking lot, front patio, visitor center, and outdoor exhibit area leading to the trail head are all accessible. Service animals are allowed on this trail.