The July project of the Castle Rock Democrats takes us to a beautiful oasis in the heart of Douglas County, the Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space trail. The five mile trail, southwest of the town of Castle Rock on Tomah Road, has only been open to the public since June 8.

The site is lacking a path from the handicapped parking space to the picnic tables, less than 50 feet, and on July 19, a group of our volunteers will create that path with shovels, wheelbarrows and crushed granite. We estimate that the project will take three hours, after which those who want to picnic and/or hike the trail are encouraged to do so. The Douglas County Division of Open Space & Natural Resources will provide snacks, drinks and the tools necessary to complete the job, but if you want to bring your favorite shovel and wheelbarrow, go right ahead!

I hiked the five mile loop recently, and it was a scenic and peaceful two hour walk through mostly pine forests, passing by hidden meadows and views of the Front Range. Most of the trail users on the day I was there were on horseback, as there are side paths with over 60 horse jumps. There were also several mountain bikers. I was happy to find such a spot within twenty minutes of my home, and will definitely return to hike there.

Please join us on July 19 at 9am at the trailhead to enjoy this Douglas County treasure and make it possible for those with disabilities to do the same. For more information and to sign up for the project, please contact either myself at deborahbhill@msn.com or Jackie Sanderson at jackiesanderson@msn.com . We hope to see you there!