The best walks and hikes around Applewood

Applewood is located in Colorado, just west of Denver at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The main hiking areas are situated around the prominent mesas of North and South Table Mountain, offering excellent views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Golden.

There is a wide variety of trails to choose from, with over 170 routes in the Applewood area. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain hikes, ensuring options for all fitness and experience levels.

The trails around Applewood are highly regarded by the komoot community. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, hikers often praise the expansive views from the mesas and the well-maintained paths that explore the unique volcanic landscape.

Yes, there are many options suitable for families. The Basalt Cap Loop Trail is a great choice, offering a relatively flat and short walk through the South Table Mountain conservation area with minimal elevation gain.

Many trails in the Applewood area are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary. Dogs are generally required to be on a leash, especially in park areas like North and South Table Mountain. Always check the specific rules for the trail you plan to hike and be mindful of wildlife and other trail users.

The landscape is defined by its volcanic history. The trails on North and South Table Mountain cross mesas formed by ancient lava flows. You'll be hiking on and around basalt rock, which creates the flat-topped mountains and offers dramatic, rugged scenery.

Yes, loop trails are very common. For a moderately challenging loop with great views, consider the Lithic Trailhead – Downtown Denver View loop from Mount Olivet. It provides a satisfying circuit with rewarding vistas of the Denver skyline.

The Clear Creek Trail is an excellent option. It follows the creek, offering a mix of urban and natural views with very little elevation change, making it perfect for a relaxed walk or run.

The primary hiking areas around Applewood, such as North and South Table Mountain, are known for their dry, mesa-top environments and are not characterized by waterfalls. The trails focus more on panoramic views and unique geological formations.

Hiking is possible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures. Summers can be very hot and exposed on the mesas, so it's best to hike early in the morning. In winter, trails can be icy or muddy, so traction devices are recommended.

The trails are very interconnected. Applewood's main hiking areas, North and South Table Mountain, are technically within Golden's city limits. Hikes starting from the Applewood side often lead you into the same park systems you'd access from Golden, offering similar terrain and views.

The trails immediately around Applewood are primarily for day hiking and are not suitable for overnight backpacking. For multi-day trips, you would need to travel further west into the higher elevations of the Rocky Mountains and national forests.