Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
238 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop will bring out the child in you as you travel along the path that transports you to a magical land. This charming adventure delivers the opportunity to see grazing deer in the meadowlands before guiding adventurers through the dense, lush pine forest. This hike is a must-add to your Denver day hikes list!

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Route Description for Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop

The Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop is a wonderful woodland adventure near the state’s capital city limits. This path is a lovely excursion that reveals sights of the mountainous landscape from the meadowland path before delivering hikers beneath the shade of the towering pines. Be mindful of rattlesnakes as you travel through the arid terrain. This trail can also only be hiked on the odd-numbered weekend days because even numbered weekend days are reserved specifically for bikers. If you hike on the wrong day, be prepared to pay a fine!

Embark on your adventure from the Apex Trailhead, where you will hike east along the Apex Trail. Hike along the meadowland path and you will be guided to an intersection. From here, keep right and you will be diverted onto the forested Enchanted Forest Trail. Hike through the towering pine trees and enjoy the smells of the fresh woodland air. Hike the magical path, and you will eventually confront another intersection. Track the Magic Mountain Trail briefly before merging onto the Paydirt Trail.

At the next junction, veer left and hike along the Hardscrabble Trail until it merges back onto the Apex Trail. Continue along the Apex Trail through the meadows, and all the way back to the trailhead which marks the end of your journey.

Getting to the Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop Trailhead

The Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop departs from the parking lot and trailhead off Lookout Mountain Road near Golden, Colorado.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop Elevation Graph

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Enchanted Forest and Apex Loop Reviews

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