Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Las Animas, Colorado
Hiking around Las Animas, Colorado puts you squarely in the Arkansas River lowlands of Bent County, where the terrain is less about dramatic elevation gain and more about wide-open high plains walking.
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Hiking around Las Animas, Colorado puts you squarely in the Arkansas River lowlands of Bent County, where the terrain is less about dramatic elevation gain and more about wide-open high plains walking. The routes here follow county roads and rural corridors — County Road 20, County Road X, County Road 3, County Road CC, and about 15 others — that cut through shortgrass prairie, agricultural land, and riparian edges along the Arkansas River valley. This is not a destination for technical trail hiking or alpine scenery. What you get instead is solitude, big sky, and the kind of flat-to-rolling landscape that rewards early-morning walkers and birdwatchers more than peak-baggers. Because these are road-based routes rather than dedicated trail systems, navigation is straightforward, but you need to pay attention to surface conditions, vehicle traffic, and sun exposure. Las Animas sits at roughly 3,900 feet elevation, so altitude is not a significant factor, but summer heat absolutely is. The area averages very little tree cover, which means shade is scarce on most of these routes. If you are coming from out of town specifically to hike, pair a Las Animas outing with a visit to nearby Bent's Old Fort or the Arkansas River corridor to make the most of the trip.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of terrain should I expect on hikes like County Road 20 or County Road CC near Las Animas?
These are road-based routes through flat to gently rolling high plains terrain. You will not find maintained hiking trails with blazes or trailheads — expect gravel or dirt road surfaces, open prairie, and occasional agricultural land. Footing is generally easy, but loose gravel and uneven road edges are common.
When is the best time of year to hike around Las Animas?
Spring (April through early June) and fall (September through October) are the most comfortable seasons. Summer temperatures in Bent County regularly push into the 90s and above, and almost none of these county road routes offer meaningful shade. If you hike in summer, start before 7 a.m. and plan to be done by mid-morning.
Is there vehicle traffic to worry about on routes like County Road 3 or County Road 13?
Yes. These are active county roads used by farm equipment, trucks, and local traffic. Walk facing oncoming traffic where possible, wear visible clothing, and stay alert especially on roads with limited sight lines. Early morning on weekdays tends to have the least traffic.
What gear do I need for hiking these routes?
Sun protection is the top priority — hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are non-negotiable in this exposed landscape. Carry more water than you think you need since there are no water sources along these routes. Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners handle the road surfaces fine; technical hiking boots are not necessary.
Are there any access restrictions or permit requirements for hiking county roads near Las Animas?
County roads are generally public rights-of-way, so no permit is required to walk them. However, the land on either side is often private agricultural property, so stay on the road surface and do not cross fences or enter fields. If you are unsure about a specific stretch, the Bent County offices in Las Animas can clarify road status.
