Grays and Torreys Peaks is one of the many famous Colorado 14ers. https://www.jeffco.us/1332/Mount-Falcon-Park. The cone looks like some kind of volcanic crater but is actually the result of natural erosion. Distance:  8.6 miles Distance:  9.7-mile out-and-back Hiking trail in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. It also forms a loop and offers great views. There are literally hundreds of hikes you can do within a two-hour-drive radius of the Mile High City. The views from the top of the two peaks are outstanding. Difficulty:  Hard The day-use fee to get into Eldorado Canyon State Park is $10 per vehicle fee, payable in cash or by card. While this mountain just west of Colorado Springs and about 75 miles from Denver is not the easiest 14er to climb it is one of the most impressive-Katharine Bates was inspired to pen America the Beautiful after summiting Pikes Peak. Castle and Parmalee Trail Loop Mount Falcon Open Space Park near Morrison; take Forest Avenue 1.6 miles from Colorado 8 Some of the best views of Red Rocks and downtown Denver … Within the parks, you'll find dozens of trails, from easy to difficult. Location: Red Rocks Mountain Park Note, if there is not a concert going on, you can also pay a visit to the amphitheater itself. When hiking a 14er, it’s important to know what essential gear you need. Take the distance that it takes to walk from the lot to the trailhead into account. Once you pass the trailhead, you’ll see signs to the left to begin the hike on the Lake Isabelle Trail. This hike begins at the Grays Peak Trailhead. source: Bruce Dall . Day 1: Rocky Mountain National Park’s Sky Pond Hike. Elevation gain: 705 feet. Elevation Gain: 1,256 feet Lake Isabelle Trail is located near Nederland, Colorado, a small mountain town with a population of fewer than 2,000 people, that has numerous options for good food and coffee after your hike. It is about a 90-minute drive from Denver to the Estes Park entrance of the park (Estes Park is also a cute town, with restaurants and accommodation and, in the fall, lots of elk). Based on our research, we’ve gathered this list of some of the more popular hikes near Denver. If you pay attention to how you’re feeling as you gain elevation, you can more than likely bypass any serious symptoms. The main symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. It’s home to a rich and diverse community of wildlife and plant species. If you start feeling symptoms of altitude sickness, turn around and head to a lower elevation. The Davis Ponds Loop trail is another option that is much less intense and perfect for families. Now for the intense stuff. She loves all things photography, film, and poetry. A high mountain lake in the Roosevelt National Forest. Location: Golden Gate Canyon State Park Hikers enjoying the view from the summit of Pikes Peak. Maison Boulder: 720-704-1993 S. Colorado Blvd: 303-399-1000 N. Denver: 303-308-1100 Park Meadows: 720-728-5913 Highlands Ranch: 303-730-3030 Here are some of the best short day hikes near Denver, CO, in no particular order: ... it also boasts some of the Front Range’s best day-hiking options near Denver. The trail covers 7,800 feet of elevation, and you really need to be acclimated to the altitude before you try. For something short, you can do the half-mile hike to Copeland Falls, although most people continue on to Calyspso Cascades for a 3.6-mile round-trip hike. And maybe you’ll even get a glimpse of some wildlife. The trail is rather narrow at times, and it goes in and out of the shade, so wear sunscreen and possibly a hat. Drive time: 50 minutes from Denver At Lower Maxwell Falls, explore a gorgeous 4-mile-hike, passing by two cascading waterfalls along the trail. And the park is located right behind Red Rocks Amphitheater, which is an absolute must-see while staying in Denver. For any live updates, you can check out @TrailsLakewood on Twitter. The Mount Falcon trail has all the hallmarks of a great family hike: leisurely, not-too-steep strolls through long-grassed meadows, impressive views of Denver and the Red Rocks Mountains, and even the ruins of a castle crumbling away some three miles uphill from the car park. The trail is mostly shaded and level, and you'll have the creek in view for much of the hike. However, Colorado is home to many open space dog parks. The lot does fill up, so it’s best to get your day started early if you want to snag a parking space, especially on the weekends. The Lariat Loop is a 40 mile trip that has several interesting pit stops along the way, including the towns of Golden, Morrison, Idledale, Kittredge, Evergreen, and a number of state parks. Hells Hole Trail in Idaho Springs Difficulty: Moderate The Wild Basin trail network also includes a strenuous, 12-mile round-trip hike to beautiful sub-alpine Bluebird Lake. And if the day ends up being overcast, well, the overcast sky makes the red rocks even more vibrant! (Coloradoans love their dogs.) Departing from the Bear Lake Trailhead at 9,475 feet, the trail passes Nymph Lake and Dream Lake with views of Longs Peak in the distance. While it may be good to get an early start, if you choose to begin the hike in the dark, be sure to bring a headlamp, as the first portion of the trail is rocky and steep and would be difficult to navigate in the dark. Typically, the more difficult hikes are farther away from Denver. Starting in the early morning is a great idea for this destination, as it can become extremely crowded. Take your climbing to the next level with top picks from Metolius, So iLL, and more. This destination is the perfect escape from Denver for a quick hike. So whether you want to summit a 14er, like Pikes Peak outside of Colorado Springs, on a seriously epic day hike, or just take a stroll along a creek, we have a trail for you in our list of the best hikes near Denver. For starters, you’ll need a first-aid kit, a headlamp, a trail map, hiking shoes, and plenty of food and water in order to successfully bag your first 14er. Be sure to check ahead for current closures and any necessary reservations before you head out for the day. You’ll need to be prepared to go up a ridge and continue climbing the switchbacks until you get to the other side. Difficulty: Easy Our climbing fanatic found the best hangboards of 2021. Note: Due to COVID-19, there may be additional closures, regulations, or reduced amenities. 10 Best Hikes Near Denver, Colorado Green Mountain and Hayden Trail Loop. 11 of the Best, Uncrowded Hikes Near Denver. There are bathrooms and water fountains near the parking lot, but make sure you bring a water bottle. https://www.bouldercoloradousa.com/. The trail is easy to access (it's just off the highway) and is also open to mountain bikers, so it does see a lot of traffic. And you’ll be treated to wonderful views from the moment you park your car. If you want solitude, this might not be the best choice. From next-gen tech to ingenious innovation, our weekly peek at emerging products examines the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. Drive time: 50 minutes from Denver 1. Dogs are allowed on leash. Boulder, Colorado boasts hiking trails that start right in town at Chautauqua Park. If you ascend the Morrison Slide Trail, this hike will be moderately difficult. If hiking the Red Rocks Trail first, you will start your hike on a steady incline. The best way to avoid altitude sickness is by allowing your body to acclimatize as you gain elevation. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the majority of the trail is directly in the sun. The Lake Isabelle Trail begins in the Brainard Lake Recreation Center at the Long Lake Trailhead, and the rest of the trail is in Indian Peaks Wilderness. And on the hike to Lake Isabelle, there are waterfalls and wildflowers. Dogs are not allowed on any trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. Chautauqua Park in Boulder – Most Hike Options Near Denver. For those of you that enjoy your history, the Buffalo Bill’s Museum and Grave will be right up your alley. Once at the park, you'll find a network of hiking and mountain biking trails. It also has some great spots to stop for a picnic lunch along the way. No matter which way you choose to hike this loop, be sure to stop at the many overlooks to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Distance: 7.5 miles out-and-back The park features views of Boulder's signature Flatiron rock formations from many different angles. While there are no restrooms right by the trailhead, you can drive to the. There are picnic tables at the trailhead, and the small visitor center has drinking water and restrooms. But if you're looking for a challenge in one of Colorado's most beautiful natural locations, it's a must-do. Drive time: 45 minutes from Denver Before or after your hike, you can take a walk through the quaint town of Eldorado Springs. The strenuous hike begins at Lily Lake. Lariat Loop. The hike itself is rather long, but the trail remains moderate throughout. We’d recommend good hiking shoes and hiking poles. The trail is not too steep and has very clear signage. Location: Eldorado Canyon State Park But you don't have to pay for a concert to experience this venue. It is a strenuous hike that includes lots of zigzags, as well as stream crossings, as the trail makes its way to the summit of Lookout Mountain-it joins up with the Beaver Brook and Lookout Mountain Trails to do so. If you park at the Rooney Lot at Green Mountain, you will have access to temporary restrooms. More experienced hikers can continue past Lake Isabelle to the Isabelle Glacier. When you're ready to explore the best hikes near Denver, explore our recommendations. Even better, it’s only a 25-minute drive from Denver. Reviewers say that this trail is extremely well-marked, making for worry-free navigation. Running through downtown Golden, the Clear Creek Trail is an easy, 1.8-mile round trip and a family favorite, especially with young children. If you'd rather climb the rocks than walk past them, Staunton State Park is also known for its climbing routes. Elevation gain: 501 feet. Distance: 2.5 miles The trail is part of the Round Mountain National Recreation Trail system that includes the Foothills Nature Trail, which is only a mile long and perfect for kids. HIKES NEAR COLORADO SPRINGS. With that info in mind and if you have it in you, channel your early bird and arrive just before sunrise. HIKES NEAR GOLDEN, COLORADO. Location: William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park There is also plenty of shade along the way, and you'll pass a few parks that are perfect for a picnic lunch. If your car isn’t capable, you’ll need to park in the lower lot, which will add 3 miles to your hike. Mount Sanitas Valley Loop Most people know of Red Rocks for its iconic outdoor concert venue. Just 25 minutes west of Denver near the town of Morrison, there are a number of hikes in Red Rocks park to check out, depending on your fitness level and whether you are traveling with kids. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike — looking at all the beautiful lakes will surely make you thirsty. If you don’t have access to a car, Boulder is easily reached by public transit. Check out my itinerary below for a long weekend guide to the best hikes near Denver! Windy Saddle Park is so close to Denver that you can easily squeeze in a post-work hike in the summer. We asked five pros how they made it work and what it takes to make a living in the outdoor industry "in real life.". Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the majority of the trail is directly in the sun. Distance: 3.2 miles Within the parks, you'll find dozens of trails, from easy to difficult. Elevation gain: 650 feet. To see it from above, you'll want to do the difficult 10.8-mile loop trail to the Elk Falls Overlook. We've also listed a few stand-alone hiking trails we love for you to check out. The view from the top is beautiful, however, with panoramic mountain vistas, as well as Denver and Golden spread out below. This is not a hike for anyone looking for a strenuous workout, but if your toddler is just learning to hike, it is perfect for them. And, hopefully, she'll be hiking a fourteener the very near future! Best Hikes Near Denver. If you visit during the off-season, you can use the winter hiking trail for a snowshoe or nordic ski option. The 7.9 mile round-trip hike takes you up to 13,233 feet with an elevation gain of 2,789 feet. You can find her anywhere outside with beautiful sights alongside her German Shepherd companion, Jasper. After the hike, you can treat the little ones or yourself to ice-cream in downtown Golden. These include Elk Meadows Park, Glendale Open Space Park, and Cherry Creek State Park, to name a few. Many of the hikes near Denver listed here are inside parks, be it city, like Chautauqua Park in downtown Boulder, or national and legendary, like Rocky Mountain National Park about 90 minutes northwest of Denver. The overall verdict from those who have hiked this trail is that the first half is stunning while the second half is just alright. There are a few things you can do to help prevent altitude sickness when hiking near Denver or in Colorado in general. Overview: After doing tons of research on hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park (there are over 300 miles of trails throughout the park! The hard work will be well worth it. There aren’t many trails where dogs are allowed to be unleashed. You should get a parking spot, plus you’ll beat the intense afternoon sun’s rays. Located about 45 minutes southwest of Denver in Jefferson County, Lair o' the Bear Park is accessed via a beautiful drive into Bear Creek Canyon. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Colorado 14ers. On days when many trails become inaccessible due to snow, rain, or mud, this trail is normally accessible, making it a good year-round hike. Also check out these guides to nearby areas: the best hikes near Boulder, the best hikes near Fort Collins, and the best hikes near Rocky Mountain National Park. or this hike, you should go all out with sun protection. One of my favorite hikes near Denver is at Mount Falcon Park. For something more intense try the six-mile Red Rocks trail. It’s less crowded than most trails at Staunton, making for a peaceful yet challenging hike near Denver. Elevation gain: 633 feet. From the incredible views from the Red Rocks Amphitheater to the historic castle ruins in Mount Falcon Park, you are bound to find a hike that excites you. Dog-Friendly:... 3. Distance: 3.2-mile loop My 50-year-old mother — who loves nature but doesn’t hike often — had a wonderful time hiking this trail. If that lot is full, you can park in the other many Red Rocks lots. But if you want a slightly easier hike, ascend the Red Rocks Trail, then descend the Morrison Slide Trail. If your car isn’t capable, you’ll need to park in the lower lot, which will add 3 miles to your hike. Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park – Wildest Hikes Near Denver. rough terrain. Drive time: 1 hour and 20 minutes from Denver Chipmunk Lake along the Ypsilon Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park on June 10. Take it slow and you’ll be just fine. Top Denver Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in Denver, Colorado on Tripadvisor. Distance:  3.5-mile out-and-back These hikes have varying levels of difficulty, from easy to hard, and range from a 20-minute to a 2-hour drive from Denver. The city is named for the massive rock formation resembling a castle at its edge. But the Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail is only 25 minutes away from downtown and has some of the best hiking near Denver. After you've worked out, this park's location within Boulder's city limits makes it easy to grab a bite to eat at one of the numerous restaurants here afterwards. Location: Matthews Winters Park The park is also home to a number of bird species-look them up in advance and then work with your kids to spot them along the trails. Rocky Mountain National Park, filled with hiking trails, is one of the most popular attractions in the state. Distance: 3.7-mile out-and-back Below is a guide to the best hikes near Denver. This hike gives you not only breathtaking views of the Rockies to the west but... Upper Mule Deer Trail. Hikers overlooking Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. 10 Best Hikes Near Denver, Colorado Green Mountain and Hayden Trail Loop. From here, you'll have views across the city, as well as the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains-Long's Peak will be to the northwest and Pike's Peak to the southwest. But when you reach the summit, you are in for absolutely stunning views across the Front Range. No matter what direction you go from Denver, the scenery will make you feel like you’ve entered an alternate universe. The road is doable if your vehicle has AWD or 4WD and OK clearance. Difficulty: moderate/difficult But for those that make it, the view from the top is truly rewarding. If you begin to experience symptoms such as confusion, an inability to walk, or shortness of breath even when at rest, seek medical attention. Location: Rocky Mountain National Park The scenic hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park begins at Bear Lake Trailhead and is best from April to November. Colorado is the place to be for hikes that will challenge you. When hiking in Colorado, be aware that lightning storms that can happen fairly often in the summer months. Location: Arapahoe National Forest There are restrooms at the trailhead. The trails here range in length from half a mile to a demanding 5.5-mile round-trip hike that takes you to the summit of Green Mountain and back. To get to this hike, enter at Red Rocks Entrance #4. This hike gives you not only breathtaking views of the Rockies to the west but also skyline views of the city of Denver to the east. Distance: 3.8-mile out-and-back FRONT RANGE HIKING TRAILS BY CITY. Elevation gain: 2,398 feet. When hiking, especially if you’re climbing a 14er, go slow, take deep breaths when needed, and drink plenty of water. Just 40 minutes from Denver, Staunton State Park also features a vast trail system not only for hiking but also for mountain biking. Of course, there may be some mud after it rains, so be careful not to slip. Though this hike is rated as difficult because of the elevation gain and length, the trail surface is rather moderate, with no scrambling and minimal rocky sections. You will take the FF1 or FF2 (Flatiron Flyer) bus from the RTD Bus Station which is connected to Denver’s downtown Union Station. Note: Due to COVID-19, an entrance pass and timed entry permit are required to enter all areas of Rocky Mountain National Park. Leash up your dog and be sure to bring plenty of water for both of you. The trail is best between April and October. To hike, you need to set out around 3am so you avoid late afternoon thunderstorms that can be deadly. Drive time: 25 minutes from Denver Literally in the city of Boulder, Chautauqua Park is just a 45-minute drive from Denver and is home to dozens of different hiking trails-from quick and easy strolls to physically intense hikes with lots of elevation change. Difficulty: Moderate Dogs are allowed, but they need to be leashed. In total, the excursion up and back will take you anywhere from 4 to 8 hours. Drive time: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Denver Elevation gain: 987 feet. Difficulty: Moderate Along the way, you'll have great views of Big Thompson Canyon and the eastern plains. Earn your stripes with this classic hike in Colorado! Joybeth is a brand new resident of Denver, Colorado, recently graduated from the University of Georgia with degrees in English and Entertainment & Media Studies. Keep an eye out for wildlife — maybe you’ll see a wild turkey or, as the name suggests, a mule deer! Parking & Trailhead Information for Section 16 Trail. If you're up for traveling from Denver for a couple of days I've been doing a lot of hiking in Chaffee County. The food is also excellent. And leave your four-legged hiking companion at home for this one. ), I settled on Sky Pond. The Eldorado Canyon Trail does have some rocky sections and steeper inclines, all of which are very manageable if you take your time. The trails are very well-marked. Just climbing the steps from the stage to the top a few times is quite a workout, and the views are amazing. The Wild Basin of Rocky Mountain National... 2. Drive time: 20 minutes from Denver But it's absolutely gorgeous, as it takes you right past the red rock formations. Elevation Gain: 1,427 feet If that lot is full, you can park in the other many Red Rocks lots. Paved at first and then turning to dirt, it follows the creek, and kids will enjoy keeping an eye out for kayakers running the chutes, and cliff swallow birds that build their nests along the 6th Ave bridge you pass. There’s a road that leads to the upper trailhead, and it’s rough terrain. It is wide and flat, and there is a picnic area here as well. Sure, this trail is close enough to make a day trip. The park is also home to Elk Falls, which is the highest waterfall near Denver. If you want to summit one of Colorado's 14ers (the name locals give to the 53 peaks over 14,000 feet high scattered across the state), you can hike the Barr Trail to the top of Pikes Peak. Sugarloaf Mountain is this tall little bald rocky mountain that sits about 30 minutes west of Boulder. But if you want to continue soaking in the natural beauty for a while longer, keep hiking on to Emerald Lake. The hike itself is a mix of sun and shade as you hike through the trees and meadows. Elevation gain: 679 feet. Though you won’t reach such gravity-defying heights on your hike, you will enjoy memorable views of Eldorado Canyon and the surrounding area. While the hike is relatively on the shorter side, the elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet makes the hiking difficult. If all else fails, there is also limited street parking available. Well, he just casually slacklined across this spectacular canyon, a mere 500 feet in the air. Along with that, the morning light reflecting off the water and pond lilies of Nymph Lake is unbeatable. Location: Staunton State Park The lot does fill up, so it’s best to get your day started early if you want to snag a parking space, especially on the weekends. Or, if you have a Colorado State Park Pass, you won’t need to pay the day-use fee. Who says you need an entire day to get out into the mountains? There is a requested $20 honor system donation into a box near the trailhead. The Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks is short, sweet, and easy, covering a 1.4-mile loop. However, on most days for this hike, you should go all out with sun protection.