Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Hike

Route Description for Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Hike

The Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Hike is a must-add to your Denver itinerary. Conveniently located near Denver’s city center, this path is a wonderful weekend escape from the hustle and bustle. Well maintained and easy to follow, children and amateur hikers alike should be able to manage this hike. Note that there are steep sections and some rocky segments of terrain, but nothing too extreme. In the summer months, make sure to keep an ear and eye out for rattlesnakes! This path is highly frequented, so respect others also venturing this awesome path.

Beginning from the trailhead, track northwest along the Red Rocks Trail. Hike up the exposed terrain to an intersection. Here, keep right and trek the lower section of the hike, continuing along the Red Rocks Trail. This path will expose views of the towering sandstone cliffs on your left, and sights of the Denver cityscape in the east. As you walk you will also be rewarded with vistas of the Dakota Hogback Ridge and the Dinosaur Ridge below. Track along this path until you encounter another junction. At this point, take a sharp left up the Morrison Slide Trail.

Navigate the switchbacks up to the upper portion of the hike. Be mindful of the steep cliffs that line the path. Follow this route south, noticing views of the Front Range peaks and foothills in the west. Trek this route to the intersection with the Red Rocks Trail. From here, retrace your footing down the path back to the trailhead, enjoying sights of the Red Rocks and the amphitheater as you descend.