It is a shame to visit Denver and not explore one of the many fabulous hiking trails that can be found in close proximity to the Mile High City. Crisp mountain air and beautiful foliage highlight trails for every experience level, and there are even trails that are pet-friendly. Hiking near Denver is an exquisite way to spend an afternoon.
Hiking Trails Thirty Minutes from Denver
A great thing about hiking near Denver is that one doesn’t have to drive very far. Within thirty minutes from the city there are multiple trails to be explored.
One of the better starting points is Bluff Loops Trail at Bluffs Regional Park. The hike is relatively short at just 2.7 miles on a looping trail, perfect for beginners. Two separate overlooks can be accessed by spurs and the view of the city at night is spectacular.
A good intermediate hike can be found on Bear Creek Trail at Lair O’ the Bear Park. Tourists and locals love Bear Creek Trail for its family-friendly terrain and shady spots for taking a rest. Hikers that want to stop for lunch will find lovely areas to spread a picnic near the waters of Bear Creek.
Those looking for a challenge will want to test Chimney Gulch Trail at Windy Saddle Park. Located near Golden, Colorado, this hike tests endurance on a slight scale as it winds its way to the top of Lookout Mountain. There are multiple stream crossings involved and it is just the right level of difficulty for those that want to push themselves a little. The payoff is nice, however, with sweeping views of the cities below.
Pet Friendly Hikes Near Denver
Choosing the right hiking trail when accompanied by a pet can be challenging. Nothing is worse that arriving at a trail only to find that it may be too taxing for a pet. Hikers should always assume that their dog must be kept on a leash throughout the hike.
Elk Meadow Park is one of the more popular spots for dogs to hike with their owners. The terrain is friendly and there is even an off-leash area where dogs can enjoy a little free time. The views are spectacular and the hike is easy enough for beginners while retaining its charm for the more experienced.
The Flatirons Vista Loop Trail is also dog friendly and combines beginner level trails with hikes for the more advanced. It is possible to access other, more challenging treks through the Flatirons from here. There are two loop options and dogs will appreciate the more wide-open feel of this hike.
The Glendale Farm Trail in the Douglas County Open Space is a perennial favorite for pet-owning hikers. This is mainly because of its spectacular seventeen-acre off-leash park where dogs are encouraged to run free. The hike itself is short but spectacular and offers some of the most gorgeous sunsets to be found in the Denver area.
Waterfall Hikes Near Denver
Those who prefer the aesthetics and beauty of a hike over the physical aspects might appreciate one of several options that combine one-mile hikes with amazing waterfalls.
Rifle Falls is just a 1.5 mile round trip, making it possible to complete the hike in less than 45 minutes. It typically takes a little longer, however, as the breathtaking triple waterfall commands a pause for appreciation. There are even caves that can be explored at one’s leisure as well as areas to spread a picnic and simply enjoy the serene sounds of cascading water.
At just a 1/2 mile round trip, Fish Creek Falls near Steamboat captures the attention with a drop of almost 300 feet. One of the highest waterfalls to be found in Colorado, Fish Creek Falls is perfect for hiking parties that combine beginners with more experienced hikers. Newbies can take a break on one of the two observation points while veterans can explore one of several more demanding trailheads.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to Treasure Falls near Pagosa Springs for a rich heritage that spawns from a legend of buried treasure. The hike is only a one mile round trip and culminates in a stunning view of the 100′ falls. Along the route are observation spots and also markers that explore and detail some of the rich history surrounding this popular spot.
Hiking near Denver can be an incredible experience. It truly exposes one to the beauty that surrounds this American city while presenting aspects of local culture that cannot be found in the city proper. All one needs to do is a little advance preparation to determine which trails will fit their individual tastes and fitness levels. Most of the trails mentioned have maps available online that will be useful in planning a trip.