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    Denver hiking

    Hikes in Denver

    Region in Colorado, United States

    Denver Hikes

    Denver hikes are the perfect way to get outside and explore the rugged landscape of Colorado. Nestled close to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is the gateway to one of the best hiking regions in the world. With trails that extend right up into the Colorado Front Range, you’ll find an incredible diversity of hikes close to the city, with some truly jaw-dropping views. Surrender to the stunning beauty of this remarkable part of the world and set out on one of the many Denver hikes on offer today!

    Denver hikes offer pure joy, with some epic and iconic trails for hikers of all skill levels. The Front Range is known for its large number of ‘14ers’ (peaks rising above 14,000 feet), and Colorado is actually home to 15 mountain peaks that meet this category. If you’re a keen hiker anxious to get some 14ers under your belt, Denver is an excellent jumping-off point into the mountains. The views from this altitude are simply epic, and make the strenuous climb well worth the effort.

    Hiking in Denver brings associated challenges, not least of which is the potential impact of altitude on your ability to enjoy your hike. It’s important to take precautions when attempting to scale a high peak, and to know your limits. However, hiking in this region is a great training ground if you’re planning a big trekking adventure at altitude in the future.

    The Rocky Mountain foothills don’t just contain epic, high peaks. You’ll find lush parks, strange areas of bare red rock, natural amphitheaters and glittering lakes. Wander through magical forests or go wildlife watching in beautiful areas of pure wilderness. This is the place to enjoy those quintessential Colorado landscapes, and discover yet another side to the Rocky Mountains.

    What are you waiting for? Choose one of the many amazing Denver hikes and start exploring this beautiful region today. To give you a little inspiration, we’ve put together a list of all our favorite Denver hikes, to suit all ages and ability levels. Happy hiking!

    15 Greatest Hikes Around Denver

    There are so many different types of Denver hikes, there’s sure to be a trail to suit every visitor. Just outside the city, you’ll find plenty of beautiful parks, some of which have their own distinctive features and characteristics, such as Red Rocks Park. Although you’re still close to town, you’ll feel as though you’re out in the backcountry, with lots of accessible and easy trails, just perfect for families. Further afield, you’ll find everything from easy forest strolls to epic mountain hikes, and plenty in between. If you’re an experienced hiker, Denver is the perfect playground to improve your fitness, train for hiking at altitude, and explore new trails, all with epic views across the Colorado Front Range. However, if you’re a beginner, don’t worry – you won’t need to climb too high in Denver to experience some incredible panoramic views.

    • Matthew/Winters Park Hike: This relatively easy trail is a local favorite, as it’s a good way to get your heart pumping but not so long or strenuous that it will take up the whole day. You’ll pass along the Red Rocks Trail, and into Cherry Gulch, before ascending a series of switchbacks with wonderful views. Watch out for snakes along the trail!
    • Red Rocks Park Hike: Red Rocks Park is a geological marvel, littered with beautiful sandstone monoliths, and lovely hiking trails. This route passes around some of these beautiful natural rock formations, and taking in the remarkable amphitheatre, the site of regular concerts. If you can, time your visit to take in a show – this is a truly memorable experience on any trip to Denver!
    • Bear Creek State Park Hike: Bear Creek State Park is a wonderful place for a family outing, and this peaceful trail is suitable for all hikers, whatever their age! The route is shaded and runs alongside the river, and there are plenty of other activities on offer, including swimming, camping and horseback riding.
    • Enchanted Forest Trail Hike: As the name suggests, walking through the Enchanted Forest is like stepping into a fairy tale. The sights, sounds and scents of this atmospheric forest are simply magical, and older kids will love this trail. The route is relatively long but not too strenuous, and the nearby Heritage Amusement Park is also a great place for families to visit for a post-hike treat!
    • Grays Peak and Torreys Peak Hike: This popular route is one of the best day hikes in Denver, and will allow you to tick off two of the famous Colorado 14ers (peaks over 4267m) in one day! You’ll need to be well prepared, fit, and acclimatized to the altitude, as this hike will take you high up into the mountains. However, the rewards are absolutely thrilling – incredible views over dark, looming peaks.
    • Elk Meadow Park Hike: Looking for a beautiful day hike in Denver with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting? The Elk Meadow Park hike will take you through fragrant pine forest and expansive meadows with stunning mountain views. Keep your eyes open and you may catch a glimpse of an elk or two along the way! Don’t miss the opportunity to spend a little time in the quaint nearby town of Evergreen.
    • Mount Falcon Park Hike: This challenging route is unique, offering stunning views and a set of intriguing historical ruins amidst the beautiful landscape. These ruins might look like an old castle, but they are actually the remains of the Walker Ranch, built by entrepreneur John Brisben Walker in the early 20th century. You’ll need plenty of energy, as this hike involves some steep ascents, but there’s plenty to distract you along the way.
    • Mount Bierstadt Hike: This wonderful route is one of the best challenging hikes in Denver, and is deservedly popular. It’s a challenging trail but you’ll enjoy some beautiful, expansive views over the wild countryside, and it’s an excellent introduction to the famous Colorado 14ers. The steep climb is well worth the effort, giving you panoramic views over the Colorado Front Range and Mount Evans.
    • Chicago Lakes Hike: This wonderful hike, deep in Colorado’s high country, is one of the best hikes in Denver if you’re looking for a little peace in the wilderness. The trail runs parallel to Chicago Creek, before ascending high up to the base of Chicago Lakes. The upper lake is surrounding by a striking cirque, offering spectacular mountain views.
    • Mount Evans Hike: This epic route is one of the most enjoyable and satisfying hikes in this part of Colorado, climbing all the way to 4348m at the summit of Mount Evans. The trail is somewhat challenging, involving a steep climb, high altitude and some scrambling in places, but the rewards are truly jaw-dropping. At the summit, you’ll have a mountain vista that will take your breath away.
    • St. Mary’s Glacier Hike: This short hike is an excellent option for families, involving a fun hike through the dense pine forest. You’ll pass alongside Saint Mary’s Lake until the start of Silver Creek, before arriving at St. Mary’s Glacier – which is, in fact, not actually a glacier but a permanent snow mass. Climb up to the lovely alpine meadow at the base of James Peak for a wonderful view over the Colorado Front Range.
    • Beaver Brook Trail: The Beaver Brook Trail is a Colorado classic – beautiful scenery, wild flowers, rocky trails and exciting river crossings, all in one route! Older kids will love this trail, and there really is something to please everyone along the way. Keep your eyes open for the buffalo herd that can sometimes be seen close to the trailhead.
    • Lair O’ The Bear Park Hike: This moderate hike is an excellent option for beginner hikers looking for a little challenge and some stellar views. You’ll pass alongside a lively river, through dense forest, and finally ascend all the way to Panorama Point for some epic views. Don’t miss the beautifully restored Dunafon Castle, which can be seen from the section of the hike that passes along the Bear Creek Trail.
    • Centennial Cone Park Hike: This popular park is a firm local favorite, and it’s not difficult to see why. You’ll find 24km of trails passing through beautiful scenery, which can be adapted for short out-and-back trails or longer loops. Don’t forget to check the calendar, as on alternate weekends hikers and horseback riders are prohibited to allow bikers their turn on the trail.
    • North Table Park Hike: North Table Mountain Park is situated just outside Golden, CO, providing access to the beautiful surrounding foothills. This loop hike offers lovely views and varied, satisfying terrain, with something to please all hikers. You’ll finally emerge at the Cottonwood Canyon Trail, taking you all the way to the top of the mesa for a fabulous view.

    When Is The Best Time To Hike In Denver?

    Denver’s climate is slightly warmer than other areas of Colorado, particularly the Rocky Mountain National Park, which gives slightly more flexibility when it comes to hiking. That said, the main hiking season runs from late spring to fall, depending on which trails you choose and how high you expect to climb. The snows clear early in the Rocky Mountain foothills close to the city, but higher elevation trails may still be covered in snow in early June. July and August often experience a somewhat unpredictable rainy season, with heavy showers in the afternoons, and this can cause problems if you get caught in the rain out on the trail. Try to avoid popular public holidays, as many trails can become extremely crowded, especially when the weather is good!

    Other Outdoor Activities In Denver

    Colorado is an ideal destination for adventurous travelers, and in addition to the numerous Denver hikes, there are lots of other fun outdoor activities to do in the area! From hiking and backpacking, to rock climbing, road biking, mountain biking and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone here. You’ll also find opportunities for white water rafting, kayaking, and plenty of excursions into the Rocky Mountain National Park. In winter, it’s time to throw yourself into winter sports, with cross country and downhill skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing all on offer.

    How To Plan A Trip To Denver

    If you can hear the Rocky Mountain foothills calling, it’s time to put Denver on your hiking bucket list! The good news is that we’ve done all the hard work so you can focus on dreaming about your trip. Check out our guide to planning a trip to Denver, complete with recommendations for where to stay and eat in and around the city. We love this beautiful corner of Colorado, and we’re sure that you will too.

    Frequently-Asked-Questions About Denver

    How can I hike in Denver without a car?

    One of the best things about hiking in Denver is that there are many hiking trails that can be accessed via public transport, without the need for your own car. For example, the hikes listed above at North Table Mountain, or those close to Golden, can be reached by public transport from Denver.

    How should you prepare for high elevation hikes?

    Preparation is key when tackling a high mountain, and many of the peaks close to Denver reach high elevations where you’ll need to spend some time adjusting to the altitude. Make sure that you understand the risks and the signs of altitude sickness, take time to acclimatize by building in rest days at altitude, and take it slow, especially at first. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and during your hike.

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    Best Hikes in Denver

    Showing 101 to 115 of 115
      Open details for Walkers Home Ruins via Parmalee Trail

      Walkers Home Ruins via Parmalee Trail

      Easy
      8.9 km
      253 m
      2.5-3h

      The Walker Home Ruins via Parmalee Trail is a stunning adventure that exposes the diversity of the Colorado wilderness. Scenic and historical, this hike will please outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike as you trek up to the John Walker ranch ruins and the Summer White House Site.

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      Open details for Devil’s Elbow Hike

      Devil’s Elbow Hike

      Moderate
      8.4 km
      271 m
      2-3h

      The Devil’s Elbow Hike is a great trail located within Mount Falcon Park. Combined, this network of routes creates an epic adventure through the woodlands. Enjoy sights of the Colorado mountainous wilderness from one of many overlooks and hike off the beaten path. Immerse yourself in nature and reconnect along the Devil’s Elbow Trail.

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      Open details for Castle, Meadow, and Tower Trails

      Castle, Meadow, and Tower Trails

      Easy
      3.9 km
      110 m
      1-1.5h

      If you are searching for one hike that exhibits all the best attributes of Mount Falcon Park, then it would be the Castle, Meadow, and Tower Trails. Perfect for families, this hike presents the perfect excuse to get the gang out into the fresh air. Kids will love exploring the Walker’s Castle remains and adults will be astounded by the expansive views offered by this trail.

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      Open details for Devil’s Elbow via Castle Trail

      Devil’s Elbow via Castle Trail

      Easy
      6.1 km
      188 m
      1.5-2h

      Immerse yourself in the stunning Colorado wilderness along the Devil’s Elbow via Castle Trail. Adventure through the lush woodlands, along luxuriant meadows, and to expansive Front Range foothill overlooks. Suitable for families and novice hikers, the Devil’s Elbow via Castle Trail presents the perfect excuse to escape into the wilderness.

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      Open details for Castle and Meadow Trails Loop

      Castle and Meadow Trails Loop

      Very Easy
      3.5 km
      79 m
      1h

      The Castle and Meadow Trails Loop is a wonderful, family-friendly adventure in Mount Falcon Park. Hike through luxuriant meadowlands often dotted with grazing deer and elk before arriving at the John Walker Castle Ruins. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, this trail will satisfy explorers of all sorts.

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      Open details for Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Extended Loop

      Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Extended Loop

      Moderate
      6.9 km
      256 m
      2-2.5h

      The Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Extended Loop is an awesome adventure just outside Denver’s city limits. Enjoy sights of the red sandstone rock formations that sit below in the Red Rocks Park and notice Dinosaur Park. This is a popular adventure that both locals and tourists alike often frequent. Conveniently located and incredibly scenic, you really can’t beat this trail.

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      Open details for Village Ride and Red Rocks Hike

      Village Ride and Red Rocks Hike

      Easy
      9.7 km
      287 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Village Ride and Red Rocks Hike is a stunning adventure through unique geological sandstone formations near Denver, Colorado. As you trek along the rocky terrain, adventurers will be rewarded with epic views of the Denver cityscape, the Dakota Hogback Ridge, and the Front Range foothills.

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      Open details for O’Fallon Park Loop Trail

      O’Fallon Park Loop Trail

      Easy
      5.6 km
      206 m
      1.5-2h

      The O’Fallon Park is a lovely woodland adventure near Morrison, Colorado. This epic hike guides adventurers through the enchanted Colorado woodlands, grassy meadows, past babbling streams, and through vibrant aspen groves. This charming trail is a wonderful wilderness escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

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      Open details for Bear Creek Lake to Mount Carbon Overlook

      Bear Creek Lake to Mount Carbon Overlook

      Very Easy
      2.9 km
      77 m
      0.5-1h

      The Bear Creek Lake to Mount Carbon Overlook is an awesome family-friendly adventure that reveals epic scenery. Trek the network of trails up to the summit overlook which grants views of the Front Range summits, the lake, and sights of the cityscape. Conveniently located near Morrison, CO, this is a great early morning hike or lunch break escape.

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      Open details for Zorro Trail

      Zorro Trail

      Very Easy
      3.1 km
      118 m
      1h

      The Zorro Trail is an awesome, family friendly adventure near Golden, Colorado. A crowd favorite, this busy trail guides hikers up to the top of the Dakota Hogback Ridge. Located near the Dinosaur Ridge, the Zorro Hike can be extended, and hikers can visit the fossilized Dinosaur bones that are etched in the sandstone rocks.

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      Open details for Evergreen Mountain Summit Hike

      Evergreen Mountain Summit Hike

      Moderate
      8.9 km
      318 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Evergreen Mountain Summit Hike is a charming adventure near Denver, CO. As you travel the enchanted woodland path, you will be surrounded by towering, lush evergreen trees. Perfect for hiking or biking, this versatile adventure delivers some of the best scenery that the Front Range foothills have to offer.

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      Open details for Belcher Hill and Whippletree Trail

      Belcher Hill and Whippletree Trail

      Easy
      5.8 km
      167 m
      1.5-2h

      The Belcher Hill and Whippletree Trail is an exciting adventure—how could it not be with a name like that? The meadow-cloaked hike reveals expansive views of the Denver cityscape and the shimmering lakes below. Great for hiking and biking, this versatile trail attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts.

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      Open details for Hidden Fawn Loop Trail

      Hidden Fawn Loop Trail

      Very Easy
      3.9 km
      137 m
      1-1.5h

      The Hidden Fawn Loop Trail is a lovely meadowland adventure in the Alderfer/Three Sisters Open Space Park. Enjoy sights of the encompassing rolling hills and the unique geological features that protrude out of the landscape. Not only is it incredibly scenic, but this path also presents the opportunity to spot grazing elk and deer!

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      Open details for Mount Galbraith via Cedar Gulch Trail

      Mount Galbraith via Cedar Gulch Trail

      Moderate
      6.4 km
      253 m
      2-2.5h

      The Mount Galbraith via Cedar Gulch Trail is a charming adventure near Golden, Colorado that reveals the beauty and diversity of the Colorado wilderness. This picturesque hike exhibits verdant towering trees, vast grass and shrublands, unique granite outcropping and the opportunity to spot wildlife. Vibrant with vegetation, the summit of Mount Galbraith rewards hikers with commanding views of the surrounding canyons, the luxuriant plains, the Continental Divide, and Golden’s cityscape. Though this adventure demands stamina, the stunning ecosystems and epic panoramic views are worth breaking a sweat.

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      Open details for Singletree and Mayhoffer Trail

      Singletree and Mayhoffer Trail

      Moderate
      15.9 km
      208 m
      3.5-5h

      The Singletree and Mayhoffer Trail is a scenic adventure that will guide adventurers through the lush meadowlands that reveal sights of the Front Range foothills and the cityscape. Perfect for families and novice adventurers, everyone will love the sights of the cattle grazing in the cow pasture.

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