Best Hiking Trails in Denver, CO

Last Updated: January 7, 2026By Tags:

Best Hiking Trails In Denver CO

Nestled at the edge of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Denver, Colorado offers some of the best hiking trails in the United States, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round. From easy, family-friendly paths to challenging summit climbs, the top hiking trails in Denver CO showcase breathtaking mountain vistas, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. As you explore this guide, you will discover how close many of these trails are to downtown Denver, making it simple to plan a quick day hike or a full weekend adventure.

Moreover, Denver’s extensive trail network offers options for every skill level, ensuring that beginners and seasoned hikers alike can find the perfect route. With convenient trailheads, well-marked paths, and stunning scenery in every direction, Denver hiking trails provide an ideal introduction to Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle and serve as a gateway to exploring the greater Rocky Mountain region.

Introduction

Denver, Colorado is a premier gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering an impressive variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. From family-friendly paths to challenging summit routes, the Mile High City provides easy access to breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and year-round outdoor adventure. This guide highlights the best hiking trails near Denver, CO, helping you plan unforgettable outings while also optimizing your search for top-rated local hikes.

Best Easy Hiking Trails Near Denver

For beginners, families, or those acclimating to the altitude, Denver features numerous easy hikes with rewarding views. These trails are generally well-marked and close to the city, making them ideal for quick escapes into nature.

Trail Distance (Round-Trip) Difficulty Highlights
Red Rocks Trading Post Trail 1.4 miles Easy Iconic red rock formations, views of Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Washington Park Loop 2.6 miles Easy Urban lakes, flat terrain, great for walking and jogging
Cherry Creek Trail (Denver Segment) Variable Easy Paved path along the creek, accessible from downtown

Red Rocks Trading Post Trail in nearby Morrison is often considered one of the best short hikes close to Denver, thanks to its dramatic sandstone formations and panoramic vistas. Meanwhile, Cherry Creek Trail and Washington Park provide convenient, low-elevation options within the city, ideal for casual strolls or early-morning workouts.

Top Moderate Hiking Trails Around Denver

Moving up in difficulty, moderate trails near Denver offer more elevation gain and rugged terrain while remaining accessible to most reasonably fit hikers. These routes provide an excellent balance of challenge and scenery.

Trail Distance (Round-Trip) Elevation Gain Highlights
Mount Falcon Castle Trail 4.7 miles ~1,300 ft Historic ruins, foothill views, mixed forest and meadow
Green Mountain via Rooney Valley 3.6 miles ~700 ft Open vistas, sunrise and sunset views, close to Denver
South Valley Park Coyote Song Trail 3.0 miles ~300 ft Red rock outcrops, rolling terrain, wildlife viewing

Mount Falcon Park is a standout for hikers interested in both natural beauty and history, featuring remnants of a stone castle and sweeping views toward downtown Denver. Similarly, Green Mountain in Lakewood offers a classic foothills experience with wide-open landscapes and relatively quick access from the city.

Challenging Hiking Trails Near Denver

For experienced hikers seeking elevation, steep climbs, and full-day adventures, Denver’s proximity to the Front Range delivers several demanding routes. These challenging trails reward effort with high-alpine scenery and expansive panoramas.

Trail Distance (Round-Trip) Elevation Gain Highlights
Mount Bierstadt 7.0 miles ~2,850 ft Popular 14er, alpine views, high-elevation challenge
Royal Arch Trail (Boulder) 3.5 miles ~1,400 ft Rock arch formation, steep switchbacks, Flatirons scenery

Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado’s more accessible 14,000-foot peaks, is a classic objective for fit hikers based in Denver. In addition, the Royal Arch Trail in Boulder provides a steep, rewarding climb through pine forest and sandstone formations, making it a favorite challenging day hike within an hour’s drive.

Essential Tips For Hiking In Denver

Because of Denver’s elevation and variable mountain weather, preparation is crucial. Always carry extra water, layers, sun protection, and a map or GPS. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, and pay attention to trail conditions, especially in spring when snow and mud can be present. Respecting Leave No Trace principles will help preserve Denver’s trails for future hikers.

Conclusion

From beginner-friendly paths at Red Rocks to challenging summit attempts like Mount Bierstadt, Denver offers some of the best hiking trails in Colorado within a short drive of the city. By choosing routes that match your fitness level and planning ahead for mountain conditions, you can fully enjoy the diverse landscapes that make the Denver area a world-class hiking destination. Whether you are a local or visiting for the first time, these top trails provide an excellent starting point for exploring the Rocky Mountain foothills and beyond.

Finding the Best Hiking Trails in Denver, CO

How can I find the best hiking trails close to downtown Denver?

Start with reputable trail platforms such as AllTrails, Hiking Project, and the City and County of Denver parks website, filtering by distance from downtown and difficulty level. For quick access, look at Denver-area favorites like Red Rocks Park, Green Mountain, and the South Valley Park trails, which are all within roughly 30–40 minutes of downtown. Cross-check recent reviews, trail conditions, and elevation profiles, and always confirm directions and parking information before you go.

What should I consider when choosing a hiking trail around Denver?

Evaluate four key factors: elevation gain, distance, altitude, and seasonal conditions. Many Denver-area trails quickly reach elevations above 7,000 feet, so choose shorter, lower-elevation routes if you are not acclimated. Check whether the trail is rated easy, moderate, or difficult, and review recent reports for snow, ice, mud, or closures. Also consider parking capacity, whether dogs or bikes are allowed, and if the trail offers shade or is fully exposed to sun, which is important at higher elevations.

Which Denver-area hikes are best for beginners or visitors from lower altitudes?

Look for shorter, well-marked trails with modest elevation gain, generally under 500–700 feet. Good beginner options near Denver include Bear Creek Lake Park, Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks Park, and the flat segments of the Cherry Creek and South Platte River trails. These routes offer scenic views without extreme climbs and are close enough to the city that you can turn around early if needed. Allow yourself time to adjust, hike at a slower pace than usual, and drink plenty of water to reduce the effects of altitude.

When is the best time of year to hike in the Denver area?

Late spring through fall is generally the best time for hiking near Denver, with May to October offering the widest trail access. Lower-elevation trails along the Front Range often remain hikeable much of the winter, but conditions can change quickly due to snow and ice. In summer, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and heat, and in shoulder seasons check for lingering snow or mud, especially on shaded or north-facing slopes. Always confirm up-to-date conditions from local land managers or recent trail reports before heading out.

How do I stay safe while hiking the trails around Denver?

Plan ahead by checking the weather, trail difficulty, and route details before you leave. Carry essential items such as water, snacks, sun protection, an extra layer, and a map or offline navigation app, since cell service can be unreliable. Tell someone your planned trail and expected return time, stay on marked paths, and turn back if storms build or if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache or dizziness. Respect wildlife, pack out all trash, and follow local regulations and posted signage to help protect both yourself and the natural environment.

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