5 Top Hikes in Denver [2024]: Routes + trails for all travelers!

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5 Top Hikes in Denver [2024]: Routes + trails for all travelers!
Looking for the best hiking trails in Denver to fill your lungs with fresh mountain air? I'm here to give you all the info you need to get the most out of your next Colorado adventure. Here's my personal top 5 favorite hikes and trails in Denver, for all travelers!
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Colorado is one of the mountain states cut in half by the most extensive mountain range in North America, the Rockies. The state is often called "colorful Colorado" for its vivid landscape of mountains, rivers, forests, and waterfalls.

Denver sits at the foot of these epic mountains, a few miles to the East. This place has a unique vibe, with its vibrant arts and culture scene, first-rate breweries, historical landmarks, and incredible natural beauty. 

All of these features Denver boasts attract a diverse crowd from all over the world.

One of Denver's greatest assets is its easy access to endless hikes in the surrounding area. The extraordinary landscape is breathtaking, and it's no wonder Colorado is widely considered the best hiking state in the country.

With so many places to potentially discover, it's vital to pick the hiking spots that's right for you and to follow the number one rule of hiking. Always be prepared! 

When to Go Hiking in Denver

Colorado has very seasonal weather, with hot summers and cold winters. The ideal time to go hiking near Denver is June to late September when the trails are usually snow-free and the mountains' highways are safe to drive on to access the routes. 

Early spring hikes can also be a great experience if you're suitably dressed and have the correct gear, such as snow spikes and poles. The alpine views are unbelievable!

Landscape of mountains and trees in Colorado Denver
Photo by Melanie Magdalena on Unsplash

What to Bring on a Hiking Trip

When going on a hike, you must bring the essentials. You know the saying, failing to prepare is preparing to fail. You don't want to be caught out in the unforgiving mountains! 

Be sure to check off the items on this list when you're packing for a hiking trip. And before you head off, look at the best hiking apps you can get that'll help you on the way.

5 Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Denver, CO!

5. Alderfer and Three Sisters Park

With both an east and west trailhead, Alderfer and Three Sisters is moderately challenging and popular for both hikers and mountain bikers. On this hike, you'll experience views of beautiful vistas and exciting landmark rock formations.

This park will have options for hiking with family or friends. Depending on your route, your hike can be as little as 15 minutes and up to an hour. Take a short ride from Evergreen, Colorado, to this superb hiking location.

4. Bear Creek Trail

Bear Creek Trail is a family favorite if you don't want to venture too far or are looking for easy hikes near Denver. It's a paved multi-use trail from the South Platte River west to Bear Creek Lake Regional Park. 

Generally considered an easy route, it takes around 45 minutes to complete and is one of the most accessible Denver trails located just out of town in the foothills. 

The Bear Creek Trail to the Castle is perfect for bringing your family to break up your day in the city. It's also a great place to have a nice afternoon picnic in the shade of the aspens.

3. Wild Basin Trailhead

Located around 90 minutes' drive from Denver, the Wild Basin Trailhead is an outdoor lover's dream.

There's no better way to experience the wild backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park and the diversity of the region's natural beauty. The area hosts a variety of trail lengths ranging from day hikes to multi-day backpacking and stock-supported trips.

The Ouzel Falls Trail is an absolute must. It takes around 2.5 hours to complete across varying terrain and is considered moderately challenging. The effort is well worth it to see the stunning mountainscapes and the idyllic waterfall scenery.

A lake surrounded by multiple trees and mountains
Photo by Tripadvisor

2. Fern Lake Trail

Located just 2 hours' drive from the city, in the Rocky Mountains, the Fern Lake Trail is an excellent choice for a challenging but manageable hike. It passes the beautiful flowing waters of Fern Falls and leads up to Fern Lake, a picturesque body of water surrounded by a forest.

When looking for the best Denver area hikes, the east side of the Rocky Mountain National Park has many options available for all ability levels. However, it's highly recommended that hikers exploring the Rocky Mountains bring a Nation Geographic topographic map guide.

1. North Mount Elbert Trail

If you're looking for a serious challenge, consider the North Mount Elbert Trail. This mountain sits a 3-hour drive west of Denver and is perfect for those looking for expansive 360-degree mountainous views. The summit of Mount Elba is a staggering 4,500 feet in elevation, so it's certainly not for the faint-hearted!

Although you should expect steep, icy conditions, the trail is much easier to navigate in summer. To summit the peak, you must bring boot spikes and snow poles. The increase in altitude is also considerable, so be on the lookout for any signs of altitude sickness and be prepared to turn back if necessary.

Quick Tips for Hiking in Denver

Now that you know where to go when exploring the trails in Denver remember to keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • Plan accordingly to avoid the afternoon storms that Denver often experiences in the summer (there's lightning, so it's better to hike before noon!)
  • Since Denver is sunny, bring lots of sunscreen, UV-protection gear, and water to stay hydrated.
  • Although Denver doesn't have a lot of dangerous wildlife, be sure to pack a first aid kit, bear spray, and a snake bite kit.
  • If you're traveling with your dog and want to bring them along, please check the rules for dogs, as each trail is different in Denver.
Group of people hiking in the autumn forest
Photo by Michel Stockman on Unsplash

Explore Hikes in Denver With Pilot!

Hiking in Denver Colorado is an unforgettable experience. The beauty of the wild forests, waterfalls, and rivers is an epic experience everyone should try. 

Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to lace up your hiking boots and start your mountain adventure!

To ensure you've got all the essentials for the hike ahead, try Pilot and keep everything on track!

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Disclosure: Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Jake Beaverstock Blog
Written by:
Jake Beaverstock
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