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Top 8 Hiking Trails Near Denver, Colorado
Looking for some adventure that is near some of the best restaurants and bars in the state of Colorado? Look no further than Denver! World-class, breathtaking hiking near Denver, Colorado isn’t hard to find. In fact, the toughest part might just be narrowing down which trail you’re going to take!
Don’t worry though, we got you covered!
We have researched and taken on some of the best hiking in Denver so that you can make your next trip to the Mile High City as epic as possible. Be sure to hit up one of these 8 hiking trails that are all dog friendly and within 30 minutes of downtown Denver!
Also, keep in mind that we have broken these trails down by length and difficulty level, so there is something to explore for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, Denver has plenty of options available!
Washington Park Loop
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 11 minutes
Distance: 2.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
One of the closest and easiest hikes to do near Denver is in Washington Park. The park is huge at a whopping 161 acres. The trail is partially paved, making it easily accessible for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Also, you’ll never be too far away from a shady spot to rest as there are tons of beautiful trees that blanket the park. Be sure to stop by Washington Park Lake as you walk around it to take in the serenity of the ducks and geese floating!
Green Mountain and Hayden Trail Loop
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 20 minutes
Distance: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Looking for a full, exciting day of hiking? One trail isn’t quite enough?
Once you have warmed up at Washington Park, head a few minutes west to William Frederick Hayden Park to enjoy the beauty of the Green Mountain and Hayden Trail Loop.
You’ll ascend about 630 feet on this loop that is dotted with wildflowers (especially in the early spring when the snow has completely melted!). At the top of the loop, you’ll be able to see Golden and Denver (as they stretch out below).
Rooney Trail Loop
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 20 minutes
Distance: 3.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
For a bit more mileage without added elevation gain, try out Rooney Trail!
With only 410 feet of elevation gain, this hike is definitely kid friendly.
Keep an eye out for wildlife too!
Rocky Mountain elk frequent the area, so be sure to bring along your camera and binoculars to view these majestic animals in their natural habitat!
Apex Trail to Enchanted Forest Trail
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 24 minutes
Distance: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Medium
If the aforementioned hikes were a bit too easy and you’re looking for something a more challenging, this next Denver-area trail is for you!
The Apex Trail to Enchanted Forest Trail loop will take you up over 700 feet in elevation gain through wide open meadows and dense pine forests. Be sure to pay attention to when you go though!
This trail is only open to mountain bikes on even numbered days.
Mount Falcon Castle Trail
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 26 minutes
Distance: 6.7 miles
Difficulty: Medium
If you enjoyed the elevation gain on Apex to Enchanted Forest, you’ll be sure to love the Mount Falcon Castle Trail!
Here, you’ll gain over 1,600 feet on this loop that takes you to the top of some beautiful views. Be sure to also stop by the remnants of the castle that was intended to be used as a summer retreat for President Woodrow Wilson, but was sadly abandoned after the onset of World War I.
North Table Mountain and Rim Rock Loop
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 22 minutes
Distance: 8.3 miles
Difficulty: Medium
Be sure to leave early in the morning for this awesome loop and bring plenty of water as there is no shade on the trail.
A lack of shade certainly doesn’t stop the deer from coming out to lazily feed on the sage and grass that blankets the sides of the hill, though! Due to the open nature of this trail, it definitely gets its fair share of rain and snow melt, which can cause a muddy mess.
If you’re leaving tracks, turn back!
Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 24 minutes
Distance: 3.8 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Views of the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre and downtown Denver await those who dare climb the 1,873 feet of Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail.
Make sure to plan this as an early morning or evening hike, because there is definitely lacking in shade! For what it lacks in shade, it makes up for in fun rock scrambles and plenty of wildflowers to keep your hike interesting as you huff and puff to the top to reap your reward!
Beaver Brook Trail
Minutes from Downtown Denver: 29 minutes
Distance: 13.4 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Beaver Brook Trail is for seasoned hikers only!
You’ll ascend over 3,000 feet on this 13.4 mile out-and-back behemoth of a hike. We will reiterate that this is not the hike for beginners!
Those who are well prepared for this monster of a hike will be rewarded with astounding views of the Rocky Mountains that are hidden behind the foothills on the Front Range. You’ll weave your way through pine forests that are home to deer and elk (and black bears!).
Plan on spending all day out on this hike by bringing plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and fueled up! Also, this is the type of trail you will want to travel with company.
Final Thoughts on Hiking Near Denver
Denver offers a variety of hiking trails that suit just about anyone. Each of these trails can be accessed year-round, which makes the Mile-High City the ideal location for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors, but not get too far away from big city amenities!
When you’re done with your hike, be sure to stop by any one of the hundreds of local microbreweries or restaurants to sip on a cool beverage and enjoy a nice meal as you gaze at some of the most beautiful mountains in the country!
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