[Denver in the distance from Mount Falcon. Photo: Drew Tarvin] Imagine undertaking an incredible adventure hiking down the paths of the Rockies with the omnipresent blue sky, the whispers of the wildflower meadows, the ripples of the alpine lakes and the silence of the breathtaking hills. Hiking will end up in memories that will almost compel you to keep coming back to this heavenly destination.
Moreover, Colorado takes pride in presenting you some fantastic parks as well as adventurous trails where you can camp to your heart’s content.
Best Hiking Trails around Denver
Boulder’s Chautauqua Park. Photo: Kayla Nicole
Denver has allured countless visitors in the recent years from almost every nook and corner of the globe. Being one of the vibrant cities of the United States, Denver is home to some incredible hiking destinations that leave travelers with uncountable memories.
There is nothing better than taking a fun-day hike from Denver. If you’re really curious to explore, here are five fun day hikes near Denver that will leave you mesmerized and make you go crazy. Have a look:
1. The Breathtaking Mount Falcon
Mount Falcon Park. Photo: eef ink
Just lose yourself in the arms of Mount Falcon that will bring you a good number of trails along with the Red Rocks. If you’re aiming to cover up a few amazing short hikes in quick time, go for the Castle Trail, the Meadow Trail and the Tower Trail in a row. Both are located within the Jefferson County Open Space, a series of free parks located throughout Golden, Evergreen and Morrison.
You’ll love witnessing the historic castle ruins with your loved ones. The flat terrain along with those awe-struck views will just make your day here. Bring sturdy hiking boots and gear that will make your treks more soothing and comfortable.
2. The Unmatched Chautauqua Park
Flatirons in Chautauqua Park. Photo: Akos Kokai
What you’ll never forget is that pristine view of the Flatirons Mountains while exploring Chautauqua Park. Moreover, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a veteran hiker or a newbie as you can either hike for not even a mile or go up to six miles.
If you wish, you can hit the Chautauqua trail directly. If not, go for one of the Flatirons trails or the Mesa trail that goes up to 6.9 miles. Bring your little ones down the Pop Jet Fountain where they can build some moments of a lifetime.
3. The Picturesque Castlewood Canyon State Park
Castlewood’s vast canyon. Photo: Cathy McCray
Located in close proximity to Denver in Franktown, Castlewood Canyon State Park will let you take soothing and shorter trails of not even two miles. However, hikers can blend loops to extend the routes.
Apart from enjoying the winds past the Cherry Creek alongside the views of the Dam Ruins, do not miss watching those Canyon Wrens and Bluebirds. So, if you’re wishing an easy escape from the city Castlewood Canyon will surely qualify.
4. The Gorgeous Garden of the Gods
Hiking path through Garden of the Gods. Photo: Tee La Rosa
If your eyes are ready to witness the incredible, it’s here in Colorado Springs, which is none other than the Red Rock formations. Follow the tracks from the visitor center and enjoy those short trails.
Take those paved tracks to keep away from the hustle and bustle. Add Cathedral Valley to your list of attractions. If you’ve been planning a 4-mile hiking trail with your family, the Garden of the Gods will just be perfect. All around the park you will take in landscapes to be left spellbound.
5. The Charming Mills Lake
Mills Lake before dawn. Photo: Steven Bratman
Rocky Mountain National Park will bring you some of the most scenic hiking trails you’ve ever imagined. The crown of them is this 5.3-mile trip, which encompasses the magnificent, 30-foot Alberta Falls.
Quite popular, you’ll find here the typical backpackers taking snaps around the rocks. The trail will take you past the Glacier Creek footbridge, which oversees some enchanting views. Furthermore, the alpine lake will make you fall with its neighboring Pagoda Mountain, the Chiefs Head Peak, and the Thatchtop Mountain.
You see that the Denver-area has a lot in store for hikers to easily enjoy quality time with their loved ones. What can be more adventurous than encountering those afternoon storms and moving ahead with vigor along the rocky paths with bottles of water and sandwiches? Wait no more, pick up your backpack, put on your sneakers and set out for having the most incredible journey around on Colorado’s Front Range.
