Mini Falcon Punch Trail Guide
The Mini Falcon Punch is a link of various Denver area mountain parks starting with Mt Morrison and ending with Mt Falcon. There are a lot of variations of this loop, but generally its 20-22 miles long with about 4,700ft of elevation gain. Although not as popular as the Boulder Skyline Traverse , this is a great linkup of multiple Denver Mountain Parks and a perfect long trail run or hike. In this variation, I added Panorama Point, Mt Falcon Proper and the Summer White House overlooks creating the Mini Falcon Punch Proper loop.
Mini Falcon Punch Quick Facts
Mini Falcon Punch Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 Stars)
Virtual Guide: Mini Falcon Punch
Distance: 22 Miles RT
Elevation Start: 6,018ft
High Point: 7,881ft (Mt Morrison)
Total Elevation Gain: 4,700ft
Estimated Time to Complete: 2-6+ Hours Total
Difficulty: Difficult What does this mean?
Class: Class 1 – What does this mean?
Season: Year Round
Crowds: Moderate
Directions to Mini Falcon Punch
Trailhead: Mt Falcon East
Getting Here: The Mt Falcon trailhead is located in Morrison, Colorado.
Parking: The East Mt Falcon lot is extremely popular but since you will likely be starting early on the Mini Falcon Punch, you shouldn’t have any issues with securing a spot. There are non-plumbing restrooms at the TH. If the lot is full, there is additional parking along nearby roads. You could also pivot and park in Morrison and just start/end your day in a slightly different spot.
Permits/Fee: $0 and no permit as of 2026
Summary
Dogs: For a fit dog, this is a dog friendly loop. However, since it can get quite hot, be sure to bring lots of water.
Camping: Camping is not allowed in the area and even if it were, camping options on this hike are essentially non-existent. Seek alternative lodging.
Make it a Loop: This is a loop! If you wanted to extend it, there are literally endless options (adding on Red Rocks, other trails in these parks, running over to the Dino ridge etc.)
Water Sources: Water is scarce on this route. Your best option is to fill up at the creek that runs through Little Park. Before and after this point, you will not come across a consistent water source.
Trail X Factors: Road Sections
About 80% of the Mini Falcon Punch loop is on dirt trails but 20% is through residential areas and on paved roads. This includes two very small sections that are technically on private property. The access road on Mt Morrison has sections owned by private individuals, please travel through this area with respect, leave no trace and move as quickly as you can. The worst road section, in my opinion, is the stretch from Pence Park to the West Entrance of Mt Falcon. It seems to go on forever and has a decent amount of climbing here.
Hike Tip(s): When running the Mini Falcon Punch loop, pick a day with lower temperatures or higher cloud coverage and be sure to start early. There is A LOT of sun on this loop but you can time it correctly to get areas of shade until 12PM ish. As mentioned above, there are no areas to stop and get food/drinks to be sure to pack what you need and refuel before leaving the creek that run through Little Park.
Best Views: In my opinion, the views from Mt Morrison, Panorama Point and Mt Falcon Summer White House overlooks are the best on this loop.
Gear Needed
- Sunglasses
- Running Vest
- Running Vest (Larger)
- Sun Hoodie
- T Shirt
- Jacket
- Running Shorts
- Hoka Mafate 5
- Hoka Speedgoat
- Hoka Challenger 7
- Running Nutrition
- Water Filter
- Water Soft Flask
- Watch
- Heart Rate Monitor
- Hiking Poles – 120CM
- Optional: GoPro, Joby Tripod, Selfie Stick, GoPro Max 2, Drone, Insta360
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