With its spectacular views, expansive hay meadows, red rock formations, wildlife habitat, historic ranching operation, and 3.5 miles of common boundary with Pike National Forest, Sandstone Ranch is the crown jewel of all the County’s Open Space properties.
This 2,038-acre ranch borders the Pike National Forest and features an extraordinarily diverse landscape including red rock formations and sloping meadows; vast wildlife habitat and corridors, expansive and diverse vegetation and other natural resources; as well as cultural and historic assets, including a historic ranch operation and a number of historic buildings dating back to its original owners in the 1870s.
One hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset.
Trail Head: 9605 S. Perry Park Road, Larkspur, CO 80118
Hikers, cyclists, and those on horseback can experience spectacular views, expansive hay meadows, red rock formations and wildlife habitat from the 12-mile trail located in the eastern portion of Sandstone Ranch, for non-motorized use only. Dogs on leashes are also allowed.
The Sandstone Ranch Master Plan seeks to balance the preservation and protection of the Ranch, with public access.
Sept. 2, 2020
One of the happiest moments in our County’s history was on December 27, 2017, the day we approved the allocation of funds for the acquisition of the 2,038-acre, historic Sandstone Ranch in Douglas County.
With its spectacular views, expansive hay meadows, red rock formations, wildlife habitat, historic ranching operation, and 3.5 miles of common boundary with Pike National Forest, the property is the crown jewel of all the County’s Open Space properties.
When we purchased this magnificent ranch, we knew the acquisition would not only preserve one of Douglas County’s most historic properties but also challenge us to balance the preservation and protection of the Ranch with the intended public access.
That balance is why the County spent nearly two years in developing the Sandstone Ranch Master Plan. The Plan which includes public input from a detailed online survey and numerous guided hikes, horseback rides, and special events provides a strong vision for the property, including appropriate public access. All while preserving and protecting the property’s cultural and historic assets, including the historic ranch operation; wildlife habitat and corridors, as well as the Pike National Forest connectivity; vegetation, and other natural resources.
The Master Plan allows the continuation of ranching operations; development of a plan for compatible public recreation and educational opportunities; protection of identified cultural resources and maintenance of historic structures; a forest management plan in conjunction with the Colorado State Forest Service; and the comprehensive interpretation of the natural resources, range management, history, as well as protection of the natural resources associated with the property.
We encourage you to sign up for Sandstone Ranch and subscribe to receive email updates on all things Sandstone Ranch, including special events, trailhead and trail construction, as well as frequent news and information about Sandstone Ranch. Please become and stay part of the conversation. We want to hear from you.
Respectfully,
Douglas County Commissioners
