Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Hasty, Colorado
Hasty, Colorado sits in the Arkansas River Valley in Bent County, a part of the state that most hikers drive through on their way somewhere else. That's a mistake worth correcting.
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Hasty, Colorado sits in the Arkansas River Valley in Bent County, a part of the state that most hikers drive through on their way somewhere else. That's a mistake worth correcting. The trails and walking routes around Hasty are low-elevation, semi-arid, and genuinely accessible — no technical scrambling, no altitude acclimatization required. The Red Shin Hiking Trail is the area's most recognizable named route, and it shows up here for good reason. County Road GG and East Kansas Avenue offer more open, road-adjacent walking that works well for early mornings when you want mileage without navigation demands. Garden Street rounds out the local options as a shorter, accessible route closer to the community itself. This is high plains hiking — expect wide skies, exposed terrain, and very little shade. The trade-off is that you can hike here comfortably in seasons when Colorado's mountain trails are buried under snow or choked with summer crowds. If you're coming from out of the area, Hasty is a legitimate base for a quiet, unhurried hiking trip that doesn't require a permit, a shuttle, or a 4 a.m. alarm to beat the parking lot.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main hiking trails in Hasty, Colorado?
The named trails and routes in the area include the Red Shin Hiking Trail, Garden Street, County Road GG, and East Kansas Avenue. The Red Shin Hiking Trail is the most frequently referenced local hiking route. The others are more road-adjacent and suit casual walkers or anyone looking for a straightforward out-and-back without route-finding involved.
What time of year is best for hiking around Hasty?
Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons. March through May and September through November bring mild temperatures and manageable wind. Summer hiking is doable but the area is exposed with almost no tree cover, so heat and direct sun are real factors — start before 8 a.m. if you're going out in July or August. Winter is generally hikeable since snow accumulation at this elevation is light compared to the mountains.
What skill level do these hikes require?
The routes around Hasty are suitable for beginners and casual hikers. The terrain is flat to gently rolling, consistent with the Arkansas River Valley's high plains character. There are no significant elevation gains, exposed ridgelines, or technical sections on any of the listed routes.
What should I bring for a day hike in this area?
Water is the most important thing to get right — there are no reliable water sources along these routes, and the dry, sunny conditions here will dehydrate you faster than you expect. Bring more than you think you need. Sun protection matters too: a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are practical necessities, not optional. Sturdy walking shoes are fine for these trails; technical hiking boots are not required.
Is there parking and trail access at these locations?
Access to the routes around Hasty is generally straightforward given their road-adjacent nature. County Road GG and East Kansas Avenue are accessible from public roads. For the Red Shin Hiking Trail specifically, check locally before your visit to confirm current trailhead access and any posted signage, as conditions and access points on smaller regional trails can change seasonally.
