There are many beautiful hikes near Denver. Known as the “mile-high city,” this is a fantastic year-round vacation destination. Some amazing activities and adventures draw visitors into this small, mid-western city.
People living in Colorado enjoy (pretty much) year-round sports and other events. And they have an abundance of annual festivals in Denver that bring in large, excited crowds each year.
They also reap the benefits of a booming culinary scene, with amazing restaurants at every turn and bars slinging creative cocktails and craft beer. Bonus points if enjoyed from a Denver rooftop bar while watching the sunset behind the Rocky Mountains in their backyard.
Colorado is known for being a top outdoor destination with its 300+ days of annual sunshine, relatively mild weather, and gorgeous mountains to the west. And if you’re visiting Denver for the first time, plan one of these fantastic hikes into your Denver itinerary!
Since I have lived in Denver for two years, I have gone on many hikes near Denver (and beyond). In this post, I highlight the best hikes, sharing some practical and technical information to help you with the planning bits.
Traveling to Denver? Make sure to also read my post The Best Free Things To Do In Denver.
19 Incredible Hikes Near Denver
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 17 MILES (27.3 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – VARIES
COST – FREE
If you’re a music fan, chances are you’ve heard of Denver’s famed Red Rocks Amphitheater. It’s arguably one of (if not the) best outdoor music venues in the United States. But you may not know that the surrounding area is a destination in its own right for outdoor recreational activities and home to some of the fantastic trails.
The area can’t get any more beautiful with the bright red rocks jutting out among the hills and trees. There are multiple different trails, and none are too complicated. But this is a VERY popular area, so be prepared to search for parking and get less of that “alone in nature” kind of feel.
Deer Creek Canyon Park
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 27 MILES (43.4 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – VARIES
COST – FREE
Deer Creek Canyon Park is super accessible, located just southwest of Denver. Here, the hiking trails are tucked away at the canyon’s entrance, surrounded by foothills.
Red rock formations are abundant and similar (but not as grand) to those at Red Rocks Park. And views of downtown Denver provide the perfect backdrop for your hike (just be sure to turn around and check it out).
Beautiful surroundings aside, the park has a variety of hiking trails to choose from, all in the easy to moderate range. These trails are a little less hyped up, so you can enjoy your outdoor time with fewer people buzzing about.
Chautauqua Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 30 MILES (48.2 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 1.2 MILES (1.9 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE TO ENTER, PAID PARKING ONSITE (AROUND $2.50 PER HOUR)
Boulder, CO, a small college city with laidback hippie vibes, is located just west of Denver. Boulder is located right on the cusp of the mountains and the foothills. Which means the hiking here is fantastic.
There are many fun things to do in Boulder, but hiking is probably my favorite activity in any Colorado town. One of the most picturesque hikes in Boulder is the Chautauqua Trail.
This is a heavily trafficked trail, but it’s an easy hike, and the area around Chautauqua Park is known for sprawling, beautiful wildflowers. This trail serves as a “lead-in” for many other popular hikes, depending on how much time (or gas in you) you have.
No matter what you choose, you will surely get amazing views of the gorgeous Flat Irons.
Hell’s Hole Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 43 MILES (68.2 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 7.9 MILES (12.7 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Don’t let the name scare you away from this less popular but no-less-awesome hike outside of Idaho Springs, Colorado.
This trail takes you to Hell’s Hole, a scenic Mount Evans Wilderness basin. This hike is charming in fall, as part of the hike takes you through a large aspen grove.
And if there’s one thing Coloradoans love to do in the fall, it’s spending time in the mountains to watch the aspen leaves change colors. Be aware that permits are required, but you can register on-site.
About five minutes into the hike (from the trailhead) is the permitting station. Make sure to stop to register, as it is required to enter Mount Evans Wilderness.
St Mary’s Glacier
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 44 MILES (70.8 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 1.5 MILES (2.4 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – $20 PARKING FEE PER VEHICLE PER DAY
St Mary’s Glacier is one of the most scenic hikes near Denver, filled with snow, rolling hills, and a beautiful thermal lake at the end.
The name is a bit misleading, as this super popular hike doesn’t involve a glacier at all. But instead, St Mary’s Glacier ends at a semi-permanent snowfield (often confused for a glacier). This means that a hike up St Mary’s will produce views of a snow-capped summit even in the warmest months.
The hike is short, but man, it is quad-burning. However, at the trail’s end is a gorgeous alpine lake and snowy mountains. The lake’s water temperature is always cold, but you still may encounter people swimming or cliff-jumping into its frigid waters.
Are you brave enough to jump in?
If you would like to join a group hike, I recommend this Denver: Glacier Hike and Geothermal Cave Pools – This is a great, small-group tour to St. Mary’s Glacier. You’ll be accompanied by a guide, who can tell you about the nature you pass. The tour also stops in Idaho Springs for lunch after the hike.
Devil’s Head Lookout Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 48 MILES (77.2 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 2.5 MILES (4 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
This moderate hike near Larkspur, Colorado, is one that you won’t soon forget. The majority of the hike takes you through aspen and pine forest lands. And what this popular hike may lack in trail privacy, it more than makes up for in historical significance.
Culminating at a large granite outcropping, this is also home to the only fire lookout in Colorado that the National Forest Service staffs.
Because of this, the lookout is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors are welcome to climb the 143 stairs to the top of the lookout, and make sure you leave enough gas in the tank to climb!
The views of Pike National Forest from the fire tower observation decks can’t be missed.
Rocky Mountain National Park
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 68 MILES (109.4 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – VARIES
COST – $30 PER VEHICLE PER DAY (DAY PASS), $35 PER VEHICLE (7-DAY PASS)
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to many of the most scenic hikes near Denver. And the national park is so large there’s something for everyone regardless of skill level.
Making a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park is often top of the list for visitors to Colorado. The park draws in over four million visitors per year. With over 400+ square miles in the park nestled among the mountains, many activities exist. Especially the hiking!
There are over 300 miles of hiking trails within RMNP, which means plenty of options and varying difficulties. If you’re unsure where to start, the RMNP website has a great section of suggested hikes to help you along.
If you don’t have a car and would like to join a guided hike, I recommend this guided day hike from Denver that includes transportation.
For more information, check out my post, The Best Things To Do In Rocky Mountain National Park.
Garden of the Gods Loop Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 68 MILES (77.2 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 3.7 MILES (5.9 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Garden of the Gods is a fantastic registered national natural landmark outside Colorado Springs, CO, south of Denver. It’s also one of the most popular and best day hikes near Denver.
There are many activities for visitors within Garden of the Gods, including guided walks, bike rentals, and rock climbing.
But one of the biggest draws for visitors is the hiking. The Loop Trail is the best trail for the best views of the formations that constitute the Garden of the Gods.
This loop through the park connects the Palmer Trail, Buckskin Charlie Trail, and Susan Breitag Trail. It’s an easy walk with little elevation gain, but the views are unparalleled.
Pikes Peak via Barr Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 128 MILES (206 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 26 MILES (41.8 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – $25 PARKING FEE PER VEHICLE PER DAY
People take hiking seriously in Colorado, which makes sense given the state’s geography. Colorado has 58 peak ranges that exceed 4,200 meters of elevation, 14,000 feet.
These are known more casually as “14ers” or “fourteeners.” And if you’re a person who takes hiking seriously, one of the big boys can’t be left out of this list. But be forewarned, this one is not for the faint of heart (or out of shape).
Pikes Peak may not be the closest 14er to Denver, but it’s certainly one of the most picturesque. The most popular way to summit Pikes Peak is along the Barr Trail.
This long, grueling hike can take six to ten hours to complete. But if hiking is your thing, there’s no better trophy than the “I conquered a Colorado 14er” picture from the top.
If you want to knock out Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods all in one go, this Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver is the best option. You’ll be with a small group and have plenty of time to see all the fantastic sights. However, this tour places less of an emphasis on hiking, as you’ll be driving to most places and given free time there to do as you’d like.
Hanging Lake Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 156 MILES (251 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 2.4 MILES (3.8 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – $12 (PEAK) / $10 (OFF-PEAK) PER PERSON, PARKING INCLUDED
Hanging Lake Trail is one of THE best hikes Colorado has to offer. Following the trail, hike along Dead Horse Creek, pass small waterfalls, and enjoy the rocky scenery of Glenwood Canyon.
It’s a relatively short hike (however, it is steep the whole way) and culminates at Hanging Lake, perched high in the mountains.
But don’t make the mistake of stopping at the lake. While beautiful, there is more to be seen. Follow signs leading you above Hanging Lake, where you will find Sprouting Rock, a magnificent snow runoff waterfall pouring through a hole in the cliffside.
This hike is so beloved that it now has a permitting system to help ease the impacts on nature. Information regarding permitting and FAQs can be found here. Despite jumping through some administrative hoops, this is a hike you really shouldn’t miss.
Storms Pass & Estes Cone Trails
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 75 MILES (120.7 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 7.5 MILES (12 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – $20 DONATION FEE
Starting right outside Rocky Mountain National Park, in Lily Lake, this trail goes to the eastern edge of Estes Cone inside the park. The views of the cone – which is not a volcano, by the way, and those of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and the Twin Sisters during the hike are stunning.
The hike goes via the Continental Divide. Once you pass the Storm Pass, you can continue following the signs to Estes Cone.
The last bit of the hike can be challenging as you’ll have to scramble over boulders – so this is one of the most challenging and most beautiful hikes near Denver Colorado.
Lair o’ the Bear Park
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 23 MILES (37 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 1.6 MILES (2.5 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Driving through Bear Creek Canyon, you can get to this park packed with easily tackled hiking and mountain biking trails. The Bear Creek Trail, along the creek, is accessible for families, with plenty of lovely places to rest and many birds living there.
If you want a break from hiking or biking, you can also do many other activities here. There are charcoal grills everywhere, so you can pack up all the ingredients and have lunch here.
Many also go to Bear Creek for fishing, another fun sunny day activity. You can do a mix of everything, with hikes and walking trails broken up with a small barbeque and then a few hours of winding down while fishing or just sitting by the creek.
The Bear Creek Trail is also one of the best fall hikes near Denver. There’s a variety of scenery and many trees, making it a great place to admire the colorful leaves.
Remember, if you go fishing at Bear Creek, you’ll need a valid license. You can get these at nearby sporting goods stores.
Staunton State Park
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 39 MILES (62.7 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 10.8 MILES (17.3 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Staunton State Park has hiking and mountain biking trails and climbing routes. This is also where you will find Elk Falls, the highest waterfall near Denver. You have two options to see it.
One is a hard hike of 10.8 miles that goes to the Elk Falls Overlook and will let you see it from above. The other is a less challenging 12-mile hike to the base.
For a trail suitable to the whole family, opt for the Davis Ponds Loop trail.
Whichever you choose, all of the trails are beautiful, with plenty of marvelous nature and clear-cut walking paths. So you really can’t go wrong.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 60 MILES (96.5 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 7.9 MILES (12.7 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – $14 ENTRANCE FEE, PARKING INCLUDES
If you are looking for one of the best hikes near Denver, head to the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area near Boulder and search for the Brainard Lake Recreation Area.
You will find several trails, some very challenging.
The Mount Audubon Trail will take you all the way to 13,233 feet above sea level, with a whipping elevation gain of 2,789 feet. Albeit a bit challenging, the views of the Front Range make it an incredibly rewarding hike once you make it to the top.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area charged a parking and entry fee per vehicle. However, you can park outside the recreation area and walk in to avoid this fee. That is if you don’t mind, a little more walking.
Chimney Gulch Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 18 MILES (28.9 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 5 MILES (8 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Albeit short, this hike at Windy Saddle Park is quite challenging – crossing a stream as you walk to the summit of Lookout Mountain. Once you get to the top, you can see Golden and Denver.
The good news is that the trail is just off the highway, so it’s easy to get to. The bad news is that this is one of the most popular hikes near Denver, and since the trail is also suitable for bikes, you’ll find lots of people on it.
Crowds and all, it’s still a gorgeous region and very accessible.
Castle Rock Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 31 MILES (49.8 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 1.4 (2.2 KM) MILES (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Castle Rock is a small town not far from Denver, named after a massive rock that looks like a castle sitting close to it. You can go all the way to that rock on a moderate trail that will offer views of the city, the Front Range, Long’s Peak, and Pike’s Peak.
If you have time, Castle Rock is also worth a few hours of the day. It’s a unique place with small-town vibes and big-city conveniences. People are very friendly, and many quirky restaurants and cafes are scattered around town.
Bergen Peak
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 26 MILES (41.8 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 10.3 MILES (16.5 KM) (ROUND TRIP)
COST – FREE
Bergen Peak Trail is a challenging trail near Evergreen, Colorado. It’s a popular hiking region, only about 30 minutes from Denver.
This is one of the most challenging hikes, as it’s 10.3 miles out and back. The trail gets rather steep sometimes, but the views are well worth it if you’re in shape.
Bergen Peak is at the western edge of Elk Meadows. The top of the trail has panoramic views of the quintessential town of the meadows just below and the mountains to the west.
The hike has plenty of shade, and this region’s air feels slightly cooler. So, it’s also the perfect hike near Denver to escape the hot summer sun.
The Bluffs Loop
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 20.4 MILES (32.8 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – 2.7 MILES (4.3 KM) (LOOP TRAIL)
COST – FREE
If you want something a little more leisurely after Bergen Peak, the Bluffs Loop is the perfect trail. It’s in the Bluffs Regional Park near Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The trail is considered moderate, though it’s a very short loop. It’s especially recommended for birding, hiking, and mountain biking.
The trail is a vast dirt path that winds up to a mesa with incredible views overlooking the Western foothills. The hike feels straight out of a classic “Wild Wild West” movie with the rugged terrain and smoky path.
This trail isn’t as popular as other hiking spots near Denver. So, you likely won’t encounter many different people along the way.
Clear Creek Trail
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 15.7 MILES (25.2 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – VARIES
COST – FREE
Clear Creek Trail is one of the easiest and most family-friendly trails around. It’s in downtown Golden, Colorado, a quiet town near Denver, Colorado.
The trail begins with a paved walkway, which turns into a dirt trail. The hike runs along a small river, where you can sit and watch the kayakers go by.
The trail has been a municipal project for some time, and the city continues to expand on it. The traditional length is less than 2 miles and only takes about an hour to complete. However, with expansions and additions, you can follow this trail and connect paths for more than 20 miles if you’d like.
Because of the well-maintained paths and distance, it’s also a popular spot for bikers and runners, so you’ll likely be sharing the road.
Meyer Ranch
DISTANCE FROM DENVER – 29.7 MILES (47.8 KM)
HIKE LENGTH – VARIES
COST – FREE
Meyer Ranch is another popular hiking area near Denver in Morrison, Colorado. It’s also the perfect place to go if you’re looking for easy hikes near Denver.
There are two main trails in Meyer Ranch. One is an easy, 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that cuts through meadows and a ponderosa forest. There’s also a longer, slightly more challenging 4.8-mile loop.
So, whether you’re in the mood for something more relaxing or physically demanding, there’s something here for you.
Either trail has incredible views and tons of nature. You might even cross paths with roaming deer or other exciting wildlife if you’re lucky.
Further Readings
Are you planning a trip to the United States? Make sure to read the following posts:
- The Best Places To Visit In Colorado
- The Best Road Trips From Denver
- 35 Incredible Things To Do In New York City
- A Complete Guide To Visiting The Statue Of Liberty
- The Perfect Itinerary To See New York In 2 Days
- A Fabulous Itinerary For 3 Days In New York
- An Easy To Follow Itinerary For 4 Days In New York
- 5 Days In New York: An Easy To Follow New York Itinerary
- A Great Itinerary For 3 Days In San Francisco
- 15 Unmissable Things To Do In California
- 10 Things To Do For A Fabulous Trip To Miami
- 12 Unmissable Things To Do In Yellowstone
- The 23 Best National Parks In USA
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