Colorado Front Range Just Got More Wild Public Land, Right Next to Red Rocks

Wildlife at Home in the Foothills 

This stretch of foothills landscape is nestled within three high-biodiversity conservation areas identified by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. It is an exceptional habitat for elk, mule deer, black bear, and mountain lions, which all move through the property as part of critical wildlife corridors. Several rare and sensitive species are also found here, including the Hops Azure Butterfly, Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse, and Mottled Dusky Wing Bat.  

Protecting this land means protecting the web of life that depends on connected, intact habitat — and keeping development from severing those connections permanently.  

Opportunity for New Trails in Denver’s Backyard 

For the millions of Coloradans who call the Denver/Boulder metro area home, this is a big win right in their backyard. Jefferson County’s open space system already draws an estimated 10 million visitors a year — a number that would rank second among national parks. Braun Ranch expands that system by filling a critical gap adjacent to Matthews Winters Park and Red Rocks Park, opening the door to new recreation opportunities with sweeping views toward Mt. Blue Sky. 

“Protecting this stunning landscape adjacent to Red Rocks Amphitheater is a big win for Coloradans and visitors to our state,” said Justin Spring, vice president and Colorado state director at The Conservation Fund. “The landscape protects sensitive habitat and important species while also guaranteeing that future generations can continue to experience the remarkable outdoor beauty of Colorado’s Front Range.” 

Protecting the Lands That Protect Us 

Beyond recreation and wildlife, Braun Ranch plays a quiet but vital role in the region’s resilience. Its intact foothill forests help buffer against wildfire and support watershed health in a region facing growing climate pressure and wildfire risk. 

For a community that lives for the outdoors, Braun Ranch is exactly the kind of win that matters — wild habitat protected, public access expanded, and an iconic landscape preserved for everyone who comes after us. 

This project was made possible in part through local county funding and a grant from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), which invests Colorado Lottery proceeds into parks, trails, and open spaces.