Why Are Western Colorado’s Hiking Trails Suddenly So Busy? [PHOTOS]

There can be little doubt many Western Colorado residents are looking to get in one more weekend of jogging and hiking before colder weather settles in. As a result, some trails, including the Audubon Trail, are seeing a sharp increase in use.

During Winter months, it is easily possible to walk the Audubon Trail all the way from the Redland's Albertson's to the ranger station at Connected Lakes while encountering only a handful of people. Don't let the colder temperatures deter you from using the trails. They are awesome year round.

On that note, a word to those who choose not to use the trail during the Winter months: those responsible for maintaining the trail and clearing the snow during the Winter do a remarkable job. As a matter of fact, they do their job very, very well. The trail is perfectly usable year round. Put simply, don't stop using the trail during the colder months out of concern they might not be as accessible.

No doubt you'll notice a significant contrast in the amount of use received by the Audubon Trail with these two photos. The photo on the left was taken in early November, with the photo on the right being late December.

You'll note the path had recently been cleared of snow. Rest assured, the plow came along again shorty after this picture was taken, removing the newly fallen snow. Please also not the complete absence of footprints. Not one person had walked this trail in almost 24 hours.

Make a point to continue using the trails as much as possible. We're very lucky in Western Colorado to have these remarkable paths. You might even discover you enjoy the trails more in the colder months.