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Open Space Management & Guidelines
Ken-Caryl Ranch Open Space is carefully managed to protect natural resources while providing safe, enjoyable recreation for residents and visitors.
Open space management is shared between two entities:
- Master Association (Private Open Space): For residents and their guests
- Metropolitan District (Public Open Space): Open to the general public
Because of this, rules and access may vary by location. Please review the appropriate guidelines before visiting.
Rules & Guidelines
These policies help protect wildlife, preserve natural areas and ensure a positive experience for all users.
Open Space & Park Use Rules
Guidelines for responsible use of trails, parks and surrounding areas.
Trail Use Guidelines
Best practices for trail etiquette, safety and environmental protection.
Open Space Restrictions
Additional protections to preserve natural, scenic and historic conditions.
Landscape Policies
Guidelines for homeowners to prevent encroachment into open space areas.
Geocaching & Letterboxing
Rules for placement to protect trails and natural resources.
Open Space Event Application
Plans & Studies
Ken-Caryl Ranch uses science-based planning and long-term strategies to guide open space management.
Habitat Evaluation Study (2026)
A comprehensive, science-based assessment of habitat conditions and ecological sensitivity across Ken-Caryl Ranch. This study supports informed decision-making for future trail planning and land management.
Fuel Break & Wildfire Mitigation
Ongoing efforts to reduce wildfire risk include strategically placed fuel breaks and vegetation management.
- Fuel breaks range from 20–30 feet wide
- Mowing typically occurs June–September
- Homeowners are encouraged to maintain defensible space along property edges
Noxious Weed Management
Annual plans guide efforts to control invasive species and protect native ecosystems, in compliance with Colorado state requirements.
Biological & Cultural Resource Surveys
Surveys are conducted before trail construction and improvements to identify and protect sensitive environmental and cultural resources.
Available Surveys:
- Docmann Area Raptor Survey (2016)
- Docmann Area Rare Plant Survey (2016)
- Colorado Natural Heritage Program Biological Survey
- Bradford Trail & Massey Draw Biological Survey
- Waterton Canyon / Long Quarry Mesa Biological Survey
- Waterton South Connector Raptor Survey (Draft)
- East Cougar Area Biological Survey (2014)
- Waterton Canyon Rare Plant Survey
- Wildcat Ridge Cultural & Biological Surveys
View Biological Surveys
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Trail Planning & Management
Trails Master Plan
Long-term strategy guiding the development and maintenance of the trail system.
Trails Master Plan
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Annual Trail Plan
Yearly recommendations for trail maintenance and upcoming projects
Trails Maintenance Plan
Priorities and approach for maintaining existing trails.
Key Projects & Studies
Wildcat Ridge Survey
Cultural and archaeological assessment to guide trail planning.
Wildcat Ridge Survey
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Brannon Gearhart Park Task Force
Recommendations for park infrastructure and long-term improvements.
Brannon Gearhart Park Task Force
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Drainageway Hazard Assessment
Planning document for stream and drainage management.
Drainageway Hazard Assessment
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Forest Stewardship Plan
10-year strategy for forest health and wildfire mitigation.
Trail Projects & Decisions
Stove Prairie Trail
A proposed reroute was not approved following community feedback, and the current trail alignment remains in place.
Docmann Loop & Cougar Trails
Expanded trail connections improving access and system connectivity.
Docmann Loop Documents
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Cougar Trail Documents
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Additional Plans & Resources
- Native mowing and vegetation management plans
- Prairie dog relocation policy
- Volunteer Trail Program
- Site-specific trail improvement plans
Additional Plans & Documents
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Metropolitan District Open Space
The South Hogback Open Space Natural Resource Management Plan outlines how public open space is managed to balance:
- Resource protection
- Wildlife habitat preservation
- Recreation and public access
