Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Byers, Colorado
Byers sits on the high plains of eastern Colorado, about 45 miles east of Denver along I-70, and the hiking here is a different animal from what most people picture when they think Colorado trails.
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View on mapHiking · 19 spots
Byers sits on the high plains of eastern Colorado, about 45 miles east of Denver along I-70, and the hiking here is a different animal from what most people picture when they think Colorado trails. Forget switchbacks and alpine scrambles — this is open-country walking across ranch roads and rural corridors like Huntington Mile Road, Yonder Road, and Hanks Crossing Road, where the terrain is flat to gently rolling and the sky takes up more of the view than any peak. The majority of the 19 listed routes around Byers carry an easy difficulty rating, including East 38th Avenue, Rector-Leader Road, Perless Mine Road, and Price Road, making this a reasonable area for beginners, families with kids, or anyone who wants mileage without elevation gain. East 104th Avenue is the one moderate-rated option in the mix if you want a slight step up. What you trade in dramatic scenery you get back in solitude and access — these routes don't draw crowds, parking is generally straightforward, and you can cover ground at your own pace without navigating a trailhead reservation system. Wind is a real factor out here year-round, and summer afternoon heat on exposed roads can be intense, so morning starts matter more than they would in the mountains.
Frequently asked questions
What skill level do you need to hike around Byers?
Most routes here are rated easy, including popular corridors like Huntington Mile Road, East 38th Avenue, and Yonder Road. East 104th Avenue is listed as moderate, but even that reflects minimal elevation change by Colorado standards. If you can walk a few miles on a flat surface, you can handle the bulk of what Byers offers.
When is the best time of year to hike in Byers?
Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons — temperatures are mild and the wind tends to be less punishing than in winter. Summer hiking is doable but plan to start before 8 a.m. because afternoon heat on open, shadeless roads like Perless Mine Road or Rector-Leader Road can be draining. Winter is cold and windy but the flat terrain stays accessible when mountain trails are buried in snow.
What should I bring that I might not think to pack?
Sun protection is non-negotiable — there is almost no tree cover on these routes, and the plains sun is relentless from late spring through early fall. Bring more water than you think you need, a windbreaker even on warm days, and a map or downloaded GPS track since road-based routes like 56th Avenue and Mimosa Road can look similar once you're out there.
Is there parking and trailhead infrastructure at these routes?
These are largely road-based and rural corridor hikes rather than developed trailheads, so don't expect restrooms, signage, or designated parking lots. Roadside pullouts are typically how people access routes like Hanks Crossing Road and East 160th Avenue. Check current access conditions before you go, especially after wet weather when unpaved roads can become muddy.
Are dogs allowed on these hikes?
Most of the routes around Byers are on public road corridors where leashed dogs are generally welcome, but because these are rural areas with working ranch land nearby, keeping your dog under control is important. Bring enough water for your dog specifically — there are no water sources along routes like South Jewell Street or North Huntington Mile Road.
