Douglas County calls Sandstone Ranch Open Space the crown jewel of its open space properties. It's a working ranch with wildlife, red rock formations and 7.7 miles of hiking trails.

There are three loops to choose from: Gambel Oak Loop (0.8 miles), Juniper Valley Loop (3.2 miles) and Sandstone Meadow Trail Loop (3.7 miles). We decided to do the Meadow Loop Trail counterclockwise.

As you hike, you may see cattle grazing. A sign explains that up to 330 cows may graze between May and September, but only for about two weeks in each section. The goal is to help restore the rangelands.

The trail is only wide enough for one to two people as it winds through the prairie grasses. You'll pass through red rock formations and near some barns.

Imagine arriving here in the 1800s. A sign explains peo

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