15 Best Hikes Near Denver (Local Favorites & Hidden Gems)

One of the questions I get asked more than any other is simple: what are the best hikes near Denver?

After more than a decade exploring Colorado’s Front Range, I’ve learned that there isn’t one “best” hike near Denver. Some people are looking for a quick trail with great views, while others want a mountain summit, waterfall hike or family-friendly adventure. Fortunately, some of Colorado’s best hiking can be found within a short drive of the city. This list isn’t based on popularity alone. These are the hikes I find myself recommending over and over again because each one offers something unique and can realistically be enjoyed as a day trip from Denver.

To keep things focused, I generally limited this list to trails located within about an hour (approximately 30 miles) of downtown Denver. Whether you’re searching for an easy hike, a scenic waterfall or a challenging summit, these are my picks for the 15 best hikes near Denver

Best Hikes Near Denver by Category

Short on time? These are my top recommendations for specific types of hiking experiences near Denver. Click on a hike below to read the complete trail guide, including directions, difficulty, parking information and hiking tips.

Best Summit Hike Near Denver

Chief Mountain

Best Dog-Friendly Hike Near Denver

Staunton State Park

Best Backpacking Hike Near Denver

Colorado Trail Segment 2

Most Unique Hike Near Denver

Royal Arch

Best Waterfall Hike Near Denver

Elk Falls

Best Family Friendly Hike Near Denver

Evergreen Lake

Recommended Hiking Gear

Whether you’re tackling a short walk around Evergreen Lake or heading out for a longer day on trails like Bear Peak or Colorado Trail Segment 2, having the right gear can make a huge difference. These are the pieces of gear I personally use most often while hiking around Denver and Colorado’s Front Range.

Required Gear

• La Sportiva Trango Hiking Boots (Men’s)
• Hoka Mafate 5
• La Sportiva Cyklon
• Backpack (Summer)
• Sunglasses
• Running Hat – Save 15% Using “DMRCMickey15”
• Base Layers
• T Shirt
• Mid Layer
• Rain Jacket / Shell 
• Pants
• Shorts
• Socks
• Food & Water

Seasonal Gear

• Backpack (Winter)
• Microspikes
• Gloves

Optional Gear

• Water Filter
• Hiking Poles – 120CM
• Garmin inReach
• Headlamp
• Garmin Fenix Watch
• Running Vest
• Running Vest Larger
• Film Gear: GoPro, Joby Tripod, Selfie Stick, GoPro Max 2 , Drone, Insta360
• *Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you.

Best Easy & Family Friendly Hikes Near Denver

Devils Head Lookout Tower

If you’re looking for an easy hike near Denver with a big payoff, Devils Head Lookout is tough to beat. This short out-and-back trail climbs to one of Colorado’s last active fire lookout towers and offers incredible views of Pike National Forest, Pikes Peak, Denver and Colorado Springs from the summit.

At roughly 3 miles round trip, Devils Head is one of my favorite family-friendly hikes near Denver thanks to its manageable distance, unique fire tower and excellent views. Although the trail can be busy during summer and fall weekends, it’s easy to understand why this hike remains one of the most popular trails along the Front Range. The drive is a bit longer than some of the other hikes on this list and includes a dirt road, but the effort is well worth it. If you’re traveling with kids, newer hikers or anyone looking for a shorter adventure, Devils Head is a great place to start.

Read a full guide on this hike here!

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is one of the most unique hiking destinations near Denver. Known for its dramatic red rock formations, abundant wildlife and variety of trails, the park offers something for everyone, from short family-friendly walks to more challenging hikes like Carpenter Peak.

One of the reasons I recommend Roxborough so often is its accessibility. It has very similar vibes to Garden of the Gods down in Colorado Springs but is much closer to Denver. Despite being located just outside Denver, it feels surprisingly remote and offers some of the best scenery in the Front Range. If you’re looking for a hike that combines great views, interesting geology and options for all skill levels, Roxborough State Park is tough to beat. Please note, Roxborough State Park does not allow dogs.

Read a full guide on Roxborough State Park here!

Evergreen Lake

Evergreen Lake barely qualifies as a hike, but I’d be doing this list a disservice if I left it off. If you’re looking for a short, family-friendly outing near Denver, it’s hard to beat a walk around the lake. The paved path, mountain views and easy access make it a great option for visitors, families with young children or anyone who wants to spend time outdoors without committing to a longer hike.

One of the best things about Evergreen Lake is the chance to spot wildlife, especially during the summer and fall when elk are often seen around the nearby golf course. While experienced hikers will likely want something more challenging, Evergreen Lake is one of the most accessible and enjoyable outdoor destinations near Denver. Looking for more hiking nearby? Check out Three Sisters or Elk Meadow parks.

Read my full guide on Evergreen Lake here.

North Table Mountain

North Table Mountain is one of my favorite hikes near Denver for people who want great views without committing to a major mountain adventure. Located in Golden, this 2,000-acre park offers panoramic views of Denver, the foothills and surrounding Front Range peaks, all within a relatively short and approachable hike. Despite being surrounded by neighborhoods and development, it’s surprisingly easy to find a sense of solitude once you’re on the trail.

One of the biggest advantages of North Table Mountain is its accessibility. The park features multiple routes to the mesa top, making it a great option for hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers and families looking for a year-round outdoor escape. If you’re short on time but still want a rewarding hike close to the city, North Table Mountain is an excellent choice.

Read a full guide on this hike here!

St Mary’s Glacier

St. Mary’s Glacier is one of the most popular hikes near Denver and for good reason. The short hike leads to a scenic alpine lake surrounded by mountain views, making it one of the quickest ways to experience Colorado’s high country without committing to a long day on the trail. While it’s technically outside of the 30 mile radius that other hikes on this list abide by, it would be criminal to leave it off this list as the scenery more than makes up for the drive.

For hikers looking for more than a short walk to the lake, I highly recommend continuing on to James Peak. Adding the summit transforms St. Mary’s Glacier from a quick family-friendly outing into a much more rewarding mountain adventure. Whether you’re visiting for the lake or tackling the peak above, this is one of the most scenic alpine hikes within day-trip distance of Denver.

Read my complete St Mary’s Glacier hike guide here

Most Unique Hikes Near Denver

Elk Falls: Staunton State Park

When someone thinks of hiking near Denver, waterfalls are not something they typically think of. Elk Falls in Staunton State Park breaks that stereotype and is one of the best hikes near Denver. Located within Staunton State Park, this hike rewards those willing to put in the mileage with one of the most impressive waterfalls on Colorado’s Front Range.

Depending on your route, expect a hike ranging from roughly 7-12 miles round trip. Elk Falls can be visited throughout the year, with spring runoff creating the most dramatic waterfall conditions and winter often coating the falls in ice and snow. Beyond the waterfall itself, Staunton State Park offers excellent hiking, trail running, mountain biking and rock climbing opportunities.

Read my complete Elk Falls hike guide here

Royal Arch

Few hikes near Denver have a more unique finish than Royal Arch. Located above Boulder, this popular trail climbs through pine forest and rocky terrain before reaching a massive natural sandstone arch perched high above the city.

Although the hike is only a few miles long, don’t let the mileage fool you. Royal Arch packs a surprising amount of elevation gain into a short distance and can feel more challenging than many hikers expect. You will also want to be very conscious of the weather while hiking Royal Arch, a hot day could make this hike miserable. The combination of unique rock formations, sweeping views and a memorable final destination makes this one of the most rewarding day hikes along the Front Range.

Best Summit View Hikes Near Denver

Chief Mountain

This is one of the easiest recommendations on this list. If you’re looking for incredible mountain views near Denver without committing to a long hike or technical terrain, Chief Mountain is tough to beat. At roughly 3 miles round trip, the trail climbs quickly to a scenic summit with panoramic views of Mount Blue Sky, the Continental Divide and surrounding Front Range peaks.

What makes Chief Mountain stand out is the amount of reward packed into a relatively short hike. The trail can be hiked much of the year, even in winter months and offers some of the best summit views you’ll find within a short drive of Denver. If I had to recommend one summit hike near Denver for first-time visitors, this would be near the top of my list.

Read a full guide on Chief Mountain

Bear Peak

Bear Peak is one of the most rewarding summit hikes near Denver and a personal favorite up in Boulder. The trail climbs steadily through forest and rocky terrain before reaching a summit with outstanding views of Boulder, the Flatirons and the Indian Peaks to the West. If you’re looking for a bigger challenge than Chief Mountain, that can also be hiked year round, Bear Peak is a great choice.

For an even bigger adventure, continue on to nearby South Boulder Peak or tackle the full Boulder Skyline Traverse, one of the most challenging and iconic hikes in the Boulder area.

Read a complete hike guide on Bear Peak!

Green Mountain

Green Mountain is another peak located in Boulder with the trail starting just minutes from downtown. Green Mountain offers a great combination of accessibility, summit views and trail variety. Multiple routes lead to the top, allowing hikers and trail runners to customize their experience. Like most Boulder hikes, this one can also be done year round! The summit rewards visitors with panoramic views of Boulder, the Flatirons and the surrounding Front Range peaks.

Green Mountain full hike guide

Mt Falcon

Mount Falcon is one of the most underrated hikes near Denver and a great option for hikers looking to combine history, mountain views and accessibility. Located just outside of Morrison, the park features a network of well-maintained trails that lead to panoramic views of Red Rocks, downtown Denver and the Front Range. The ruins of John Brisben Walker’s unfinished castle add a unique historical element that sets this hike apart from many others near the city.

With multiple route options and moderate elevation gain, Mount Falcon is suitable for a wide range of hikers and can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Whether you’re looking for a quick workout or a longer day on the trail, it’s easy to customize your experience.

Read my full guide on Mt Falcon here.

Bergen Peak

Bergen Peak is one of the best summit hikes near Denver that relatively few visitors know about. Located within Elk Meadow Park in Evergreen, this trail climbs steadily through dense pine forest before reaching a summit with expansive views of Colorado’s Front Range, including Mount Blue Sky, surrounding foothills and distant mountain ranges.

Despite being less crowded than many nearby trails, Bergen Peak rewards hikers with a true mountain experience and a surprisingly remote feel. The hike is moderately challenging with a fair amount of elevation gain and multiple routes up to its summit but well worth the effort for those looking to escape the busiest trails near Denver while still enjoying an accessible day hike.

Read a full guide on Bergen Peak here

Best Dog Friendly Hikes Near Denver

Beaver Brook and Chavez Trail

Beaver Brook and Chavez Trail is one of the most convenient hikes near Denver, sitting just off I-70 and less than 40 minutes from downtown. The roughly 5-mile loop descends into Clear Creek Canyon, where hikers are treated to stream crossings, seasonal waterfalls and surprisingly scenic canyon views, especially during spring and early summer. It’s a bit cooler and less crowded than a lot of hikes on this list, making it a nice option for dogs.

What makes this hike stand out is its accessibility and year-round appeal. While it may not be the flashiest trail on this list, it’s a reliable option for a quick outdoor escape and a great choice for hikers looking to avoid a long drive into the mountains. Keep an eye out for the City’s historic bison herd, which can often be seen grazing near the nearby Chief Hosa area.

Read a full hike guide on this trail here

Reynolds Park

Reynolds Park is one of my favorite under-the-radar hikes near Denver and a place I find myself returning to often with Aria. Located in Conifer, the park offers a quieter experience than many Front Range trails while still delivering excellent views of the surrounding foothills. On a clear day, you can see Pikes Peak and the distinctive Cathedral Spires rising in the distance. If you’re hiking with a dog, Reynolds Park is one of the better options near Denver thanks to its extensive trail network, open space and generally lighter crowds.

Reynolds Park has lots of great trails, but I highly recommend the Eagles View loop. It offers some of the best views in the park, in my opinion.

Read a full guide on Reynolds Park here

Colorado Trail Segment 2

For hikers looking to experience Colorado backpacking without driving deep into the mountains, Colorado Trail Segment 2 is one of the best options near Denver. The Colorado Trail stretches nearly 500 miles from the Denver area to Durango, but Segment 2 stands out thanks to its accessibility, scenic terrain and flexibility. Whether you’re looking for a long day hike or an overnight adventure, this section of trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore.

One of the things I like most about Segment 2 is that it can often be hiked earlier and later in the season than many nearby mountain trails. There are numerous camping opportunities along the route, making it a great introduction to backpacking near Denver. The trail is also dog friendly and offers plenty of space for dogs to explore responsibly. For those wanting an even bigger challenge, simply continue onto additional Colorado Trail segments and turn the outing into a multi-day trek.

A full guide on Colorado Trail Segment 2 can be found here

Best Hikes Near Denver: Honorable Mentions

These hikes narrowly missed the main list but are still worth considering depending on the type of adventure you’re looking for.

Waterton Canyon

Waterton Canyon is one of the most accessible outdoor destinations near Denver. While it’s more of a scenic walk than a true hike, the trail offers excellent wildlife viewing, easy terrain and direct access to the Colorado Trail. However, please note that Waterton is not dog friendly. Read a full guide on this one here.

Deer Creek Canyon

Deer Creek Canyon is one of the best workout hikes near Denver. Its steep climbs, extensive trail network and convenient location near Littleton make it a favorite for hikers, runners and mountain bikers looking to get outside without a long drive.

Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Lookout Tower

Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout Tower is one of the most unique hikes near Denver as you can actually stay in the Fire Lookout Tower. The short trail leads to a modern fire lookout tower with panoramic Front Range views, its a great hike, I just like neighboring Chief Mountain more! Read a full guide on this hike here.