The Rocky Mountains are one of the stand-out features of the Denver area.
They provide a beautiful backdrop for those living in the city, an exciting place to adventure on the weekends, and even the perfect spot to live forever!
Locals know and love the typical beauty of living near the foothills.
Denver promotes a connected and interactive lifestyle throughout every neighborhood, encouraging wellness and the power that exists within getting outdoors.
If you are heading to Denver, bring a comfortable pair of shoes or invest in a nice pair of hiking boots because there are some major peaks nearby!
Exploration of the great outdoors allows residents to evolve with the environment around them, forming relationships with the natural world and other people within the community.
Hiking in Denver is a Must-Do Activity
Whether warm sunrays are hitting your face, flurries of snow falling through the mountainways, or the glorious sound of running water nearby, hiking is an experience for everyone.
Colorado offers many options for those traveling with newborns, young children, or individuals with different abilities.
Hiking improves physical, emotional, and mental well-being!
There is a huge sense of relief when having the opportunity to be outside.
It is a fabulous way to exercise because no matter which trail is chosen, the whole body gets a workout:
- Hiking builds stronger bones and muscles.
- It can help to improve a person’s balance.
- Hiking benefits heart health.
- It can even reduce the risk of respiratory problems.
- Nature boosts mood and mental stability.
- The outdoors is a great place to socialize and strengthen relationships.
What to Know Before Hitting the Trail
When moving to higher elevations, there are tons of benefits, but things that newbies should be aware of before taking a hike.
Those new to Denver need to understand the preparation that is needed before walking through the mountains.
When planning a hike, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the territory, possible needs, and external components that may influence the experience:
- Check the weather forecast before going. No one wants to get caught in a rain or hail storm mid-hike! This can be a very painful, uncomfortable, and even dangerous experience.
- Review a map or application to get acquainted with the trail. This will help you prepare with the appropriate clothing and provide awareness about any specific guidelines of the park or trail.
- Keep a small first aid kit handy. You never know when it could be of use!
- Remain respectful of the wildlife around and the park. Remain on the trail at all times.
- Don’t forget appropriate shoes and any hiking attire. Footwear is critical when hiking, and your clothing should remain protective and comfortable.
Trail Etiquette: Best Practices for a Safe and Respectful Hike
Beyond the usual mindfulness around trail rules and regulations, there are general rules of the hills that hikers should follow.
None of these are written in stone, but it is common knowledge.
The etiquette is similar to the rules of the road for drivers, but respect seems to be the golden rule amongst regular hikers.
Beyond that, these are the best rules to abide by:
- Stay in the right of way. Be sure to check nearby signage for the trail hiking and follow the usual stream of traffic or any other guidelines for yielding on the trail.
- When hikers are coming up a hill, they have the right of way. Do not cut off or run past people upon the descent.
- Bikers should yield to others who are hiking. If you are biking, you should come to a full stop and step aside when hikers are trying to pass.
- Yield to horses or pack stock along the trail.
- Saying hello, waiving, and nodding to others on the trail creates a friendly atmosphere. Remain aware and vigilant of all surroundings at all times.
Beginner Hike Options
Those just getting started in the mountains will opt for quick day hikes that are around 1 to 2 miles in length.
There are plenty of places just outside of the city to enjoy a day hike. Just be sure to keep your pack light and put on plenty of sunscreen:
- Trading Post Trail is located at Red Rocks. It is a stunning introduction to the amphitheater when new to the area. The hike is just over a mile and usually takes people anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes to complete.
- Fountain Valley Trail is over at Roxborough State Park in Littleton, Colorado. The trail is rated as an easy hike, coming in at just over 2 miles in length. It is a free park to visit, but leave your dog at home as they are not allowed!
- The Racoon Loop in Golden Gate State Park is about an hour outside of Denver, located in the Black Hawk region. This is one of many trail options within the park but is best suited for beginners. It is about 2.5 miles long and can take around an hour to complete.
- Mount Falcon is a very popular place for Denverites and tourists to visit for the forest and its well-known castle ruins. The Castle Trail, which goes through the ruins, is the easiest of hikes in the area. It does maintain heavy foot traffic. Remain aware of your surroundings on the trial, as there are rattlesnakes in the area!
Family Friendly Trailheads
Hiking is a great thing to do with friends and family.
It helps to carve out quality time with the kids and offers a place outside for them to learn and explore.
Not every trail in the region is known for being family-friendly, so it is important to understand where to go:
- Clear Creek Trailhead has access right in downtown Golden, CO. It is a very stable, comfortable trail even with smaller children in tote. There is tons of shade and greenery. The hike’s perfect ending results in an entire adventure through the city of Golden!
- Lookout Mountain is a stunning place for a picnic, birthday parties, family get-togethers, and hiking. There are two main trails, both under a mile in length. These are ideal for young children and beginner hikers.
- The Evergreen Lake Trail is just over a mile in length and marked as easy by those who have come to explore it. Located right by the lake, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on the water. It is also a peaceful spot for a walk with kids and other family members.
- Pine Valley Park is another family-friendly place to visit. There are some trails with a higher difficulty level within the park and others that suit families and children nicely. The park has everything families need, from the lake to a shady gazebo for rest. It is known as being a fabulous area to picnic along the Front Range.
Exploring Nature Within City Limits
Going outside of Denver is not a necessity if you are looking for early morning or evening hour hikes.
There are lots of parks and green spaces throughout the city limits to explore.
While they may not offer the same conditions as trails, there is still the opportunity to get up and move outside:
- City Park Loop Trail is right in the heart of Denver’s City Park. It offers a gorgeous, peaceful retreat with a 3-mile loop winding around the park lakes. There is an amazing view of downtown Denver and the foothills. This remains a great option for those who want to get outside for a walk or jog.
- Wash Park is another one of Denver’s beloved green spaces. There is a paved and unpaved trail loop and sidewalks throughout the park. The main loop is 2.6 miles. Taking you around two lakes, streams, tennis courts, playgrounds, and more. The park’s expansive gardens and tree-lined paths make for an ideal spot to unwind!
- The South Platte River Trail extends over 10.5 miles along the river itself. Throughout its path, there are riverbanks, bridges, and other natural spaces to explore. The trail is perfect for an urban sense of adventure while still offering wildlife and unique city views.
Trails with Water Access
There are rivers and streams for fishing, swimming, or playing throughout the Denver metro area.
Once arriving closer to the foothills, those bodies of water become a unique asset to those interested in finding new places for hiking.
If you are searching for a place with a waterfall, then these are some of the best nearby:
- Adams Falls is within Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit for newcomers to the area. There is a short round-trip hiking option by Grand Lake that is only about half a mile. The waterfall is right off the East Inlet Trail and is an awe-inspiring place to visit.
- If you are looking to go a little further outside of Denver, Booth Creek Falls Hike is gorgeous. There are a plethora of trails to explore out near Bridal Veil Falls near Vail. The waterfalls are breathtaking, and the wildlife is just as beautiful!
- Maxwell Falls is only about 45 minutes outside of Denver, and there is a trailhead offering a loop just over 2 miles. The Maxwell Falls lower trail will bring you right along running water, rapids, creeks, and waterfalls! This is a family-friendly hike, but it is best to visit in the Spring or Summertime once all the snow has melted.
Seasonal Trails with a Scenic View
It isn’t hard to fall head over heels for Colorado mountain towns, but one thing all new Denver residents must understand is how the seasonal changes can impact your ability to visit.
Tourists and locals flock to places like Guanella Pass to watch the fall leaves turn and then back again in the Summertime for their first-weekend camping.
Trail options are no different.
Some are well-traveled during certain seasons, and it is essential to know all the best places to go:
- Flatirons Trail is known as an iconic place in Chautauqua Park! The trail is totally accessible in spring and summer, supplying visitors with beautiful wildflowers and panoramic views in all directions. The area is well-maintained and caters to novice and more experienced hikers.
- During the chilly winter months, Bear Lake Loop is in Rocky Mountain National Park and not difficult to get to, so long as there isn’t too much snow on the road! The trail provides scenic views of the winter landscape within the pine forests. You can see snow-capped pears for miles!
- Fall is the most popular season for leaf peeking, a pastime of nearly every Coloradan. Bear Creek Trail is nestled in Morrison within the foothills. The trail is perfect for those who have a little bit of experience hiking, allowing them to soak in the autumn breeze and lovely leaves.
Trails for the More Experienced Hiker
Once you get your first few hundred miles in, it is time to move on to bigger and better things.
Trail hikes and running can be quite a challenge, so if you are seeking something that pushes you in the right direction, these are the right places:
- Taking on Mouny Bierstadt for your first 14er is a classic challenge for Denverites. Many people will choose to hike it every year. Its route starts at Guanella Pass Trailhead and ascends through alpine meadows, making hikers navigate rocky paths and streams. The higher you make it, the steeper the trail becomes, but it all becomes worth it once you make it to 14,065 feet.
- Mount Evans Trail takes you up 14,264 feet. There is access to driving to the top, but that isn’t quite as exciting. The hike to the top is extremely mentally and physically demanding. The route itself is also tricky as there are lots of rocks and narrow ridges along the way to the summit, but there isn’t anything like the sense of accomplishment that sets in once you reach the top of the mountain.
- The Royal Arch Trail is not a 14er, but it will challenge you all the way there. The ascent is pretty steep and requires a lot of stamina. There are many rocky sections near the top, but the path remains clear. Once you have made it, you will see gorgeous views of the Flatirons and all the plains that surround it.
Incorporating Hiking into Your Everyday Life
Colorado is too beautiful not to spend lots of time outside.
From kayaking to camping, there is always somewhere new to explore!
By incorporating hiking adventures into your everyday life, people can stay active and improve their mental and physical well-being.
You can get started by finding places near you and slowly venturing further outside of the foothills.
Weekends are a great time to make an entire getaway out of the event.
With small adjustments, hiking can be incredibly fulfilling and offers balance with some exercise, too!
Moving to the Mile High will Keep You Active
Relocating to the Mile High City supplies a unique opportunity to stay active thanks to all of its natural surroundings and a community breeding outdoor culture.
Denver provides quick and easy access to a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
From hiking to skiing, nothing beats enjoying the fresh mountain air, and there are local moving companies prepared to get you there.
Getting to Denver is Only the Start of Your Journey
Arriving in Denver is the start of a brand-new chapter, and The Denver Moving Company is a locally owned business ready to ensure a simple transition.
Our representatives provide clients with a free moving quote to get started, and then the moving crew comes in for safe transport.
Moving to a new city can be difficult and overwhelming, but with our reliable services and all these amazing hikes on the other end, residents can rest assured they are in for an exciting adventure ahead!
