Alderfer/Three Sisters – Sisters and Ponderosa Loop

Dog-friendly hike near Evergreen · Alderfer/Three Sisters East Trailhead, 30357 Buffalo Park Rd, Evergreen

Illustration of an alpine lake trail in the Colorado mountains

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

Dogs on this trail

Jefferson County Open Space regulations require pets on a leash of ten feet or less and under physical control at all times.

Source: Jefferson County Open Space · checked 2026-10-24. Rules change; confirm before you go.

Distance2.8 mi
Elevation gain460 ft
Leash ruleLeash required
Water on trailNone — carry water
SeasonYear-round; shaded north slopes hold snow and ice, bring traction Nov–March
ParkingEast Trailhead lot fills by 8 a.m. on weekends; overflow at Wilmot Elementary; the rebuilt West Trailhead a mile west has expanded parking
FeeFree
RestroomsRestrooms at both trailheads
Managed byJefferson County Open Space

Alderfer/Three Sisters is Evergreen's backyard park, 16.7 miles of trail through old ponderosa stands and granite outcrops, and the Sisters–Ponderosa loop (about 2.8 miles, 450 feet) is the classic dog circuit: up past the three rounded summits, a short scramble option onto the saddle, and back through the meadow. Grades are moderate, shade is good, and the trail network lets you lengthen or shorten on the fly. Jeffco's 10-foot leash rule applies and it is a busy multi-use park with bikes on most routes. Add Evergreen Mountain East (2.25 miles, 700 feet) for a bigger day with a view of Mount Blue Sky.