Colorado Hikes: Mustang Trail Loop from the White Ranch West Trailhead
Abstract
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Mustang Trail Loop from the White Ranch West Trailhead on this picturesque hike. With a comfortable temperature, this 7.47-mile adventure offers the perfect balance of challenge and scenery during the winter. Whether you're an experienced hiker or looking for a moderate workout, this hike can be tailored to meet your fitness needs. It is ideal for Denver residents seeking adventure and fitness in the great outdoors. Don't miss the chance to discover the beauty of this trail and its potential for personalization.
Keywords:
Mustang Trail Loop
White Ranch West Trailhead
Hiking in Golden
Denver Hiking Trails
Outdoor Adventure
Sunday Hike
January Hiking
Moderate Hike
Scenic Trails
Trail Conditions
Elevation Gain
Hiking Equipment
Denver Personal Trainer
Fitness Trail
Connecting Trails
Mustang Loop
Hiking Tips
Denver Area Hikes
Trailhead Amenities
Winter Hiking
Only 45 minutes from our personal training studio in Denver.
Time of Year: Sunday, January 7th, 2023.
Weather: 19 degrees and partly cloudy.
Cover: 90% exposed.
Time: 8:07 am - 11:09 am.
Distance: 7.47 miles total.
Cost: None.
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.
Difficulty: Moderate level 1 for altitude (7887 feet), elevation gain (1214 feet), and length (7.47 miles).
Route: Sawmill Trail to Belcher Hill Trail to Mustang Trail to Belcher Hill Trail to Maverick Trail to Upper Longhorn Trail to Rawhide Trail (a figure 8). Note: I added the connecting trails for extra mileage.
Traffic: None to light.
Parking: Two cars between the two lots of the west trailhead.
Equipment: Hiking boots, microspikes.
Terrain: A primarily dry dirt trail with a thin layer of snowpack for 25% of the trail.
Experience: While the hike on Belcher Trail from the east trailhead is beautiful, I decided to start from the west trailhead this time. The Mustang Loop is a must and arguably one of the most beautiful trails in Golden. I hiked counterclockwise (although clockwise is a tad more scenic on the walk). I connected to the Maverick and Upper Longhorn Trails for additional east-facing scenery and mileage.
Denver Personal Trainer Notes: If you take the same route, you'll check off a moderate workout considering the total elevation gain. My personal training clients can easily modify the workout, though. Whether they shorten the mileage by removing the connecting trails or heading counterclockwise on the Mustang Loop to minimize the elevation gain, this trail can serve the fitness needs of all.
Although not an incredibly tough hike, it will help your endurance and support your efforts while personal training.
My LoHi personal training clients love the access to the foothills from Denver.
Mustang Loop Trail now ranks as a favorite in Golden, Colorado.
The first of two peaks on this hiking trail in Colorado.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER
As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.
Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!
