The best walks and hikes around Denver

Many of the trails within Denver are perfect for beginners as they are relatively flat and follow urban greenways. A great option is the Sloan's Lake loop — Sloan's Lake Park, which is a short and easy walk around a scenic lake. For a slightly longer but still manageable outing, the Lakewood and Dry Gulch Trail — Denver offers a pleasant urban hike.

While this guide focuses on more accessible urban trails, the area does have more strenuous options. The most difficult route highlighted is a moderate 9.3-mile (15 km) urban trek, the Platte River Trail — Denver. For true mountain challenges with significant elevation gain, you'll want to explore the nearby foothills and the Rocky Mountains, which are just a short drive from the city.

Yes, many trails in and around Denver are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. Urban trails like the Cherry Creek Trail — Denver are generally welcoming to leashed dogs. However, some state parks and nature preserves may have restrictions to protect wildlife. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit and keep your dog on a leash where required.

Denver is surrounded by exceptional parks. Sloan's Lake Park is a favorite right in the city. For dramatic red rock formations, both Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre and Roxborough State Park are highly regarded local destinations offering stunning scenery. Lair o’ the Bear Park is another popular choice, known for its creekside trails and picnic spots.

Absolutely. Many of Denver's urban trails are paved and relatively flat, making them ideal for families with strollers. The Westerly Creek Trail — Denver is a good example of a straightforward path suitable for a family outing. Parks like Lair o’ the Bear Park also feature gentle trails that are great for children.

Parking availability varies significantly. For urban trails, you may find street parking or designated lots, but these can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. For popular parks like Lair o’ the Bear Park and Red Rocks Park, arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot. Some state parks may require an entrance fee or a state parks pass for vehicle entry.

Yes, hiking is a year-round activity in Denver. The city's lower-elevation urban trails are often clear of snow or are manageable with standard hiking boots. For trails in the foothills, you may encounter ice and snow, so it's wise to bring microspikes or other traction devices. Always check trail conditions before you go, as they can change rapidly.

On urban trails, you're likely to see various bird species, squirrels, and rabbits. In parks closer to the foothills, like Lair o' the Bear Park or Roxborough State Park, you have a chance of spotting deer, elk, and foxes. Be aware that rattlesnakes are native to the area and can sometimes be seen sunning themselves on trails, so it's important to stay alert and give any wildlife plenty of space.

While the main urban trails in this guide follow rivers and creeks, they don't typically feature significant waterfalls. To see impressive waterfalls, you'll generally need to head a bit further into the foothills or mountains. Trails like Maxwell Falls, located a short drive from Denver, are specifically known for their waterfalls, especially during the spring runoff.

The trails around Denver are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the urban trail network and the stunning scenery of the nearby mountain parks. The mix of easy city walks and challenging mountain terrain is a frequently mentioned highlight.

There are over 60 hiking routes around Denver featured on komoot, ranging from easy urban walks to more demanding trails in the surrounding parks. This collection provides a wide variety of options for all skill levels, showcasing the best of the city's greenways and nearby natural landscapes.

For incredible panoramic views overlooking the city and the Front Range, a visit to Lookout Mountain Park is a must. It's a popular spot for both its scenic drive and its hiking trails. The iconic red sandstone formations at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre also provide a dramatic and uniquely Colorado backdrop for any hike.