One of the best things about Denver is its proximity to the mountains, which signify that it provides an immense opportunity for hiking. There are various trails located near Denver that will take you away from your bustling city and offer a tranquil atmosphere. Are you looking for the best hikes near Denver, and more options are confusing you? Don’t get anxious. In the blog, we are providing you a list of 10 of the best hikes near Denver in 2024.

Best Hikes Near Denver

Plan your next hike near Denver with the help of our article. Check out the best 10 hikes near Denver below. You can pick anyone that best suits your interests. 

1. Booth Falls Trail

In this trail, you need to cover 3.9 miles out and back. The difficulty level of the hike is moderate to difficult. You will need around 3 hrs to complete Booth Falls Trail. There will be so many breathtaking views you will witness during the trek. The trails will end on the 60-foot waterfall. There are various photographic spots on the hike to capture the best moments of your life. Also, if you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will get an opportunity to explore unique flora and fauna. All these reasons are more than enough to make us include Booth Falls Trail in the list of 10 best hikes near Denver in 2024.

2. Stone Lake Hike

It is a 20 km out-and-back trail located near Grand Lake. To complete the trail, you need a basic level of fitness. The average time to complete the hike is around 8 hours. The best month to do Stone Lake Hike is from June to October. After completing the trail, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Stone Lake and wildflowers. If you are looking for a challenging trail, then it is one of the best hikes for you near Denver.

3. Bear Peak 

Head to a 7.4-mile hiking route in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Bear Peak will present a moderate challenge to hikers but also reward them with beautiful vistas after completing it. It starts at the South Mesa Trailhead, with a clear signboard guiding you toward Bear Peak. During the hike, you will see spectacular vistas, including breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. You can go to Bear Peak Trail at any time of the year to get different experiences according to the seasons, from wildflowers in spring to snow-covered landscapes in winter.

4. St. Mary Falls Trail

Get ready for the St. Mary Falls Trail, a gem tops in our list of best hikes near Denver in 2024. Located in the heart of nature, this trail promises you a memorable journey. You will find this trek crowded on the weekends. If you prefer lesser crowds, plan to cover the trail in weekdays. When you start the trek, the mountain air and the rustling leaves create a symphony of tranquillity. During the hike, you will find a blend of serenity and adventure, making it a must-explore destination for hiking enthusiasts seeking the best hikes near Denver, Colorado.

5. Red Rocks Trail

If you love sunrise hikes, then the Red Rocks hike is for you. There are two ways you can cover this trail. You can cover one by bike and the other by walking. It is a 6-mile round trip that requires approximately 3 to 4 hrs. During the hike, you will get a chance to explore the beauty of two parks; one is famous as Red Rocks Park, and the other is Matthews Winters Park. Red Rocks Park is also known as Denver Mountain Park. Undoubtedly, Red Rocks Trail is one of the best hikes near Denver.

6. Fountain Valley Loop Trail

Embark on a 4.2 km hike located near Denver. It is an easy trek that gives you an opportunity to enjoy the thrill of the trail with your family. What makes this trail more interesting? During the hike, you will get an opportunity to cover various spots famous for birdwatching, photography and unique rocks. You will encounter a lot of mud during the trail. It is one of the best hikes near Denver with water. Fountain Valley Loop Trail is open all year round. If you have a dog, we are informing you that dogs are not allowed on this trail.

7. Barr Trail

The Barr Trail is a challenging hike in which you have to cover around 38 km. You will need a basic level of fitness to complete this hike. If you are a beginner, then you should go for this hike in the summer. In winter, you will encounter a lot of snow, which makes it difficult for beginners. After reaching Pikes Peak via Barr Trail, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of nature.

8. Maxwell Falls Trail

It is considered an easy trail near Denver. Maxwell Falls will present you with a moderate difficulty level. You will need an average of 2.5 hours to complete this hike. The best time to go on this thrilling expedition is from March to October. Maxwells Falls is famous for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. All these make us include this hike in the list of “10 Best Hikes Near Denver in 2024”.

9. Mayflower Gulch Trail

It is a gorgeous trail in which you need to cover around 10 Kilometres. If we have to recommend a trail you can enjoy during the weekend, we would name it Mayflower Gulch. You will need 3 to 4 hours to complete the trail. Also, you can go for the trail with your family, which makes it one of the best hikes in Denver.

10. Cheesman Canyon Trail

Cheesman Canyon Trail offers a unique outdoor experience across its 9.5-mile stretch. Your expedition will start from the Cheesman Canyon parking area, and the trail winds along the South Platte River. The trail provides a moderate challenge with varying elevations. You will also get an opportunity to fly-fish during the trail. Nature lovers can discover unique wildlife, including deer and eagles. It is last but not least in our list of 10 Best Hikes Near Denver in 2024.

Also Read : Best Hiking Trail in Southern California

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

Q. What is the closest mountain hike to Denver?

A. The closest mountain hike near Denver is the Mount Evans Summit. The summit is part of the Rocky Mountains and is located approximately 60 miles west of Denver.

Q. How late in the year can you hike in Colorado?

A. The best time to hike in Colorado is from June to October. Most of the trails are snow-free during these months. If you have proper hiking equipment, you can go for a hike at any time of the year. 

Q. What is the most famous mountain in Denver?

A. The Pikes Peak is the most famous mountain in Denver.

Q. What mountain town is closest to Denver?

A. Check 5 mountain towns below that are close to Denver.

• Idaho Springs 
• Georgetown
• Central City
• Black Hawk
• Evergreen

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