We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Most Unusual Hiking Trail Name in Colorado

Colorado is packed with incredible trails. By some estimates, there are over 39,000 miles of hiking trails in the Centennial State, and Coloradans love exploring them any time of the year. Many have names that describe them perfectly and in straightforward terms, while others have more unique and intriguing names.

One trail in Colorado with a fascinating and memorable name is The Lorax Trail near Carbondale. This trail is just 2.9 miles in length and its second half is a loop. It features 423 feet of elevation gain, and most people complete it in a little over an hour. Along the way, hikers can expect lots of trees and incredible views. It's rated moderate, but because it's relatively short, most hikers will enjoy the challenge without getting worn out.

"I am The Lorax, I speak for the trees. I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues," cries The Lorax in Dr. Seuss' 1971 classic of the same name. The Lorax tells the tale of a small man-like creature who was "shortish and oldish, and brownish and mossy" who "spoke with a voice that was sharpish and bossy."

In this now-famous story, the narrator comes across a land with beautiful trees that take his breath away. Then, in short order, he begins to cut them down to make useless products. The Lorax tries to defend this land and the trees and animals that live there, but the narrator ignores him completely. The end result is a barren land with no beauty left to enjoy.

Almost everyone has read The Lorax at some point in their lives or seen the 2012 film based on the book. Those of us who love getting out in nature and wish to protect wide-open, untouched spaces are inspired by this cautionary tale well into adulthood. It would be fitting if this lovely trail were named for a creature who existed to protect the beauty and innocence of natural places like this one. The Lorax Trail passes through heavily wooded areas and is shaded in most sections. Hikers will marvel at the beauty of the ponderosa pines and aspens along the way.

Views of Mount Sopris like the one above are sure to impress. Be sure to bring some water with you, and you'll likely want to have a camera or phone to take pictures, too.

During the warmer months, you'll likely see a wide variety of wildflowers along the trail. This trail is also full of wildlife. You'll find happy insects, birds, mule deer, red foxes, and more. The Lorax Trail is well-known, but if you time your visit right, you'll be able to enjoy moments of solitude in nature while you make your way along the path.

This trail is popular with mountain bikers and hikers, so stay alert and watch for bike enthusiasts passing through. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must stay on a leash.

The Lorax Trail may have an unusual name, but it serves a purpose. It's impossible to walk or bike along this trail without thinking about The Lorax in Dr. Seuss's tale and his passion for saving the trees and animals that he loved so much. Hiking on this trail reminds us that we must care for our natural environment, too, or else it will disappear.

The rapid destruction of The Lorax's beautiful world makes The Lorax a depressing tale, indeed. However, the story ends with hope for the future. The book's final pages indicate that we can change things for the better when it says, "UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.... Grow a forest. Protect it from axes that hack. Then The Lorax and all of his friends may come back."

Protecting nature is our responsibility. Consider that on your hike on The Lorax Trail, and happy trails to you!