Ascending Hikes – Pawnee Buttes

The trail to Pawnee Buttes cuts through wind-swept prairie and eroded sandstone, offering a quiet walk through Colorado’s eastern grasslands. The land is vast and open, with the sky stretching wide above and the sun sharp on your back. As you move toward the buttes—two towering formations rising like weathered monuments from the plains—the only sounds are wind and the distant cry of raptors overhead. This is a place of silence, space, and reflection. The path is well-marked but exposed, so bring water, sun protection, and prepare for strong winds. Wildflowers bloom in spring, and birdwatchers will appreciate the abundance of hawks, falcons, and meadowlarks. We'll find a comfortable place to stop for lunch/snack. Our pace will be comfortable for all participants. Overall ~5 miles and ~400 ft elevation gain. (Pawnee Buttes - CalTopo)

The Colorado Mountain Club's Ascending Hike Section (AHS) provides an opportunity to make new friends and explore new places in Colorado's backcountry, while increasing your personal hiking speed, strength, and stamina. The section is administered by CMC volunteers. There is no cost, fee, or scheduling commitment. There are no dues or elections. Open to all CMC members. To join the section, contact the CMC office. (Ascending Hikes Section — The Colorado Mountain Club)

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at Harmony Road PnR at 7:00 AM, and depart at 7:15 AM (Harmony Road Park & Ride - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to parking at the Pawnee Buttes TH  (Pawnee Buttes Trailhead - Google Maps)