Good news for Front Range hikers and Front Range homeowners. One of Jefferson County’s most iconic recreation spots just got significantly bigger. Jefferson County Open Space recently finalized a 347-acre land acquisition known as Braun Ranch, expanding Matthews/Winters Park and protecting the future of this landscape.
For those of us living near Morrison, Golden, and the foothills, this project preserves the land that makes our local real estate so valuable.
What Is Braun Ranch?
Located just west of the existing park boundaries, the Braun Ranch property was a privately owned parcel that had been on the market for several years. Because of its location near the I-70 corridor and the Morrison exit, it was a high-priority target for developers.
Through a partnership between The Conservation Fund, Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), and Jefferson County Open Space, the land was purchased for $7.3 million.
What the Expansion Adds
- Connecting the park: The new acreage bridges disconnected sections of the northern part of Matthews/Winters Park.
- Wildlife protection: The area serves as a critical migration corridor for elk and mule deer in the foothills transition zone.
- Backcountry experience: While the current trails are heavily trafficked, this expansion moves higher and further west, offering a more rugged escape from the city.
- Vistas: The top of the property sits nearly as high as Lookout Mountain, with 360-degree views of the Morrison Valley and Mount Blue Sky to the west.
New Trails on the Horizon
The land became officially part of the park in late April 2026. Jeffco Open Space is now in the planning phase for sustainable trail development.
The county plans to build at least one new trail connecting the Morrison Slide Trail to the summit of the expansion area. That will likely involve collaboration with Denver Mountain Parks, since the expansion area borders their property near Mount Morrison. Keep an eye on the Jefferson County Open Space site for updates on when these new routes will officially open.
How Open Space Impacts Home Values Near the Foothills
I’ve been a Littleton broker since 1999, and I remind buyers all the time about how important location is. Properties in Morrison, Golden, and West Lakewood see steady demand because of how close they sit to world-class recreation. Matthews/Winters Park already attracts millions of visitors a year, and a permanent buffer zone of protected land like Braun Ranch helps keep both the natural beauty and the property values intact for the next generation.
If you’re looking for a home with trail access right out your front door, I’d love to help you find your spot near the foothills. Mountain bikers, trail runners, or anyone who wants a sunset view of the hogbacks — I work with all of them. You can also browse current Denver Metro homes for sale or read about the best neighborhoods near the foothills, or explore the best hikes and trails in Ken Caryl.
If you’re buying or selling in the Denver Metro area and want a talk about what’s happening in the market, call me at 303-210-6156 or reach out through karinjacoby.com.
— Karin Jacoby, Dream Realty