Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Fowler, Colorado
Hiking around Fowler, Colorado looks different from what most people picture when they think of Colorado trails.
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Hiking around Fowler, Colorado looks different from what most people picture when they think of Colorado trails. Forget switchbacks and alpine meadows — this is the Arkansas River Valley, where the terrain is flat to gently rolling, the sky is enormous, and the routes run along rural county roads through open agricultural land and shortgrass prairie. The four routes here — County Road 6, County Road 7, County Road V, and Flying A Road — are unpaved or lightly traveled public roads rather than designated trail systems, which means you get solitude and wide-open views of the Wet Mountains and Sangre de Cristo range to the south and west without any crowds. That tradeoff also means minimal shade, no trail markers, and no maintained facilities along the way. This is honest, straightforward walking in a part of eastern Colorado that most hikers drive through without stopping. If you want a leg-stretcher between Pueblo and La Junta, or you're based in Fowler and want to get outside without driving an hour to a trailhead, these roads give you a legitimate option.
Frequently asked questions
What is the terrain like on these routes?
All four routes — County Road 6, County Road 7, County Road V, and Flying A Road — run through flat to mildly rolling shortgrass prairie and farmland in the Arkansas River Valley. There is no significant elevation gain to speak of, so these walks are accessible to most fitness levels. The ground is typically packed dirt or gravel.
When is the best time of year to hike here?
Spring (April through early June) and fall (September through October) are the most comfortable seasons. Summer temperatures in this part of eastern Colorado regularly climb into the 90s and there is almost no shade on any of these routes, so if you go in July or August, start before 8 a.m. and carry more water than you think you need. Winter days can be mild and clear, but wind on the open prairie can make it feel much colder than the thermometer reads.
What should I bring?
Water is the most important thing — there are no water sources along County Road 6, County Road 7, County Road V, or Flying A Road, and the sun exposure is constant. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) matters more here than on a shaded forest trail. Sturdy walking shoes are fine; technical hiking boots are not necessary given the flat terrain.
Are these routes open to the public, and is there any vehicle traffic to watch out for?
These are public county roads, so they are legally accessible for walking. Because they are also active roads, expect occasional farm equipment and vehicle traffic, particularly during planting and harvest seasons. Walk on the left side facing oncoming traffic and step well off the road surface when vehicles pass.
Is there parking or a formal trailhead at any of these routes?
There are no designated trailheads, parking areas, or facilities associated with these county road routes. Most people start from a point in or near Fowler where they can safely pull off the road. Plan your route in advance using a map app so you know your turnaround distance before you set out.
