Are you looking for the best hiking trails near Denver? If so, you’re in luck! There are plenty of great options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll. Here are five of the best hiking trails near Denver⁚
Mount Bierstadt Trail
Length⁚ 6.8 miles round trip
Elevation gain⁚ 2,760 feet
Difficulty⁚ Strenuous
Mount Bierstadt is one of the most popular hiking trails near Denver, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the summit provides a sense of accomplishment that is hard to beat. However, it’s important to note that this trail is not for the faint of heart. The elevation gain is significant, and the trail can be very crowded, especially on weekends. If you’re looking for a challenging hike with big rewards, Mount Bierstadt is a great option.
Tips⁚
- Start your hike early to avoid the crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots.
- Allow plenty of time to complete the hike.
Directions⁚
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 241 (Georgetown). Turn left onto Highway 103 and drive for 10 miles. Turn right onto Guanella Pass Road and drive for 13 miles. The trailhead will be on your left.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre Loop Trail
Length⁚ 1.6 miles
Elevation gain⁚ 400 feet
Difficulty⁚ Easy
The Red Rocks Amphitheatre Loop Trail is a great option for a short and easy hike with big rewards. The trail offers stunning views of the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and it’s a great place to see the famous rock formations up close. The trail is also relatively flat, making it a good option for families with young children.
Tips⁚
- Visit during the week to avoid the crowds.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail can be rocky in places.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
Directions⁚
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 259 (Morrison). Turn left onto Highway 285 and drive for 1 mile. Turn right onto Red Rocks Drive and follow the signs to the park entrance. The trailhead is located near the Visitor Center.
Lookout Mountain Trail
Length⁚ 2.6 miles
Elevation gain⁚ 500 feet
Difficulty⁚ Moderate
The Lookout Mountain Trail is a moderately challenging hike that offers stunning views of the Denver metropolitan area. The trail climbs steadily to the summit of Lookout Mountain, where you’ll find the Lookout Mountain Inn and a historic observation tower. On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions.
Tips⁚
- Start your hike early to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Be prepared for wind and cold weather, especially at the summit.
- If you’re short on time, you can drive to the summit and hike the short trail to the observation tower.
Directions⁚
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 259 (Morrison). Turn left onto Highway 285 and drive for 1 mile. Turn right onto Lookout Mountain Road and follow the signs to the trailhead.
Green Mountain Trail
Length⁚ 3.5 miles
Elevation gain⁚ 1,200 feet
Difficulty⁚ Moderate
The Green Mountain Trail is a moderately challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the Denver metropolitan area and the Rocky Mountains. The trail climbs steadily through a forest of ponderosa pines and aspens to the summit of Green Mountain, where you’ll find a fire tower and picnic area. On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions.
Tips⁚
- Start your hike early to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Be prepared for wind and cold weather, especially at the summit.
- If you’re short on time, you can drive to the summit and hike the short trail to the fire tower.
Directions⁚
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 259 (Morrison). Turn left onto Highway 285 and drive for 1 mile. Turn right onto Lookout Mountain Road and follow the signs to the trailhead.
Chief Mountain Trail
Length⁚ 1.5 miles
Elevation gain⁚ 600 feet
Difficulty⁚ Moderate
The Chief Mountain Trail is a short but challenging hike that leads to the summit of Chief Mountain, a prominent peak in the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The trail climbs steeply through a forest of ponderosa pines and aspens, offering stunning views of the amphitheatre and the surrounding mountains. At the summit, you’ll find a large rock formation that offers panoramic views of the Denver metropolitan area and the Rocky Mountains.
Tips⁚
- Start your hike early to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Be prepared for wind and cold weather, especially at the summit.
- If you’re short on time, you can drive to the summit and hike the short trail to the rock formation.
Directions⁚
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 259 (Morrison). Turn left onto Highway 285 and drive for 1 mile. Turn right onto Lookout Mountain Road and follow the signs to the trailhead.
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