With hundreds of trails to choose from, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. I’ve narrowed it down to the 30 best day hikes in Colorado near Denver, from an easy lake stroll a little over an hour from the city to an 11.2-mile trek from East Inlet to Lone Pine Lake. Each hike comes with drive time from Denver, distance, elevation gain, difficulty, and permit requirements, plus the best time of year to go, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for before you leave the driveway or the airport.
Chris and I have hiked every trail on this list over the years, some multiple times. The Manitou Incline was the last holdout, and we finally conquered it this fall. I’ve done all the leg work for you (pun intended), from local trail tips to a full Colorado hiking gear list, so this guide covers everything you need to plan your adventure in the Centennial State.
Best Day Hikes Near Denver Under 1.5 Hours
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This collection of Colorado hikes near Denver covers real scenic variety: rivers and streams, thundering waterfalls, alpine lakes, and plenty of wildlife sightings along the way. I’ve grouped them by drive time, starting with trails under 1.5 hours from Denver, followed by a dedicated Rocky Mountain National Park section, and ending with a few showstoppers worth the longer drive. Drive times are estimates from downtown Denver without traffic, so add a buffer on summer weekends and ski-season Saturdays on I-70.
While most hikes are accessible year round, Denver winter hikes require some advance preparation—the Rocky Mountains don’t mess around in winter. Be sure to check reservation requirements in the summer months, and if you’re planning a bigger Colorado adventure, don’t miss my complete Colorado Road Trip guide for the best stops across the Centennial State.
1. Spruce Mountain Open Space Trailhead
Chris originally picked a hike an hour away, and I talked him into this one closer to home instead. The Spruce Mountain Open Space trail loops up and around a small mesa with partial shade and easy footing, a solid workout without a long drive. Go early in summer. It was already hot by mid-morning.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 50 min
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km) loop
- Elevation Gain: 685 feet (209 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; early morning in summer
- Permit: None; free Douglas County open space
2. Palmer Lake Reservoir Trail
I’ll be honest: this isn’t my favorite hike, but it’s a great leg-burner close to town, and the Palmer Lake reservoirs are a beautiful payoff. Most of the climb follows a service road covered in loose rock up to two reservoirs that hold the town’s water supply—that’s why dogs aren’t allowed. The trailhead lot fills fast, so we parked a few blocks away by the library.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4.1 miles (7 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~700 feet (213 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall
- Permit: None; no dogs allowed
3. Garden of the Gods: Siamese Twins Loop Trail
This is our go-to for a spontaneous evening hike when Chris gets off work early. We took the Cabin Canyon route out to the Siamese Twins and back; we shared the view with a couple taking their wedding photos. The two sandstone spires frame a natural window.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 15 min
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.6 miles (0.97 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 111 feet (34 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for the best light; open year round
- Permit: None; free city park
Related Post: 20 Reasons Kids LOVE Garden of the Gods Hiking Trails & Adventures (Adults Too!)
4. Manitou Incline
Most people just call it “The Incline,” and it earns its reputation: 2,744 railroad-tie steps straight up the mountain. Chris, Misha, and I finally climbed it in October 2026. Watch for the false summit. It fools almost everyone. Park at the Dillon Mobility Hub, ride the Route 33 shuttle to the base, and hike down the Barr Trail. It was Type II fun according to my husband—grueling in the moment but worth the satisfaction after. I won’t be doing it again.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 15 min
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Distance: 4.4 miles (7 km) up the Incline and down the Barr Trail
- Elevation Gain: 2,020 feet (616 m) with 2,744 stairs
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime the incline is open and conditions are good
- Permit: Required for all climbers
Related Post: Manitou Incline Hike: 17 Smart Tips to Conquer the Steps
5. Lily Pad Lake Trail
This was a turning point for us as a hiking family when our kids were younger—the first trip where the kids didn’t complain the entire way. Chris found the trailhead just up the hill from our Silverthorne vacation rental; a steep climb from the parking lot gets you to the actual trailhead, then it’s a gentler two miles from there to a lake that catches the sunlight just right.
- Distance from Denver: ~ 1 hr 15 min
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 413 feet (126 m)
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Permit: None; limited parking but the SummitStage is available.
6. Devil’s Head Fire Lookout Trail
This is one of the hiking trails near Denver Colorado that lives up to the reviews: great hike, but get there early. We grabbed one of the last parking spots on a Saturday morning. The trail climbs steadily through Pike National Forest to 143 steps leading up to one of the oldest working fire lookouts in the country. From Devil’s Head Lookout, enjoy the scenic Rampart Range with big Pikes Peak views.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 15 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 863 feet (263 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall; check seasonal road closures
- Permit: None
Related Post: 30 Essential Tips for Driving Through Mountains
7. Cheesman Canyon
Cheesman Canyon follows the South Platte River through granite boulders and pines, and it’s one of the best fly-fishing stretches in the state, so expect to see anglers. The trail is rocky in spots with lots of scree, but the river views make every scramble worth it.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 15 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5.7 miles (9 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~550 feet (168 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; spring and fall are ideal
- Permit: None
8. Catamount Falls & Mt. Dewey Loop
This is one of the Colorado hikes with waterfalls; it starts in the town of Green Mountain Falls with a steep climb up Foster Avenue before you reach the trail. Catamount Falls was still roaring in September. Unfortunately, we missed the stream crossing and had to scramble our way back to the trail. Then the clouds rolled in, and we finished the loop in rain jackets and ate lunch in the car. Park in town by the pool, since there’s no parking near the trailhead for hikers.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Distance: 5 miles (8 km) loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,750 feet (533 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall
- Permit: None; park in town
9. Lake Isabelle Trail
The trail passes meadows and Long Lake before climbing to Isabelle, framed by some of the sharpest peaks in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Watch the brush for moose. We nearly missed one grazing just off the trail.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6.6 miles (10.6 km) out and back
- Elevation Gain: 675 feet (206 m)
- Best Time to Visit: July through September for wildflowers, snow lingers into early summer
- Permit: Yes, Brainard Lake Recreation Area
10. Mitchell Lake Trail
July brings abundant wildflowers to this trail and a decent shot at a moose sighting. Don’t let the distance fool you. Expect to scramble over rocks, ford streams, and cross lingering snowpack. Mitchell Lake is your first stop, but the trail keeps going to Blue Lake and Little Blue Lake. Chris and I pushed on to both.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Distance: 6.6 miles (11 km)
- Elevation Gain: 1,443 feet (440 m)
- Best Time to Visit: June to October; expect some snow early in the season
- Permit: Brainard Lake Recreation Area timed entry reservation
Day Hikes 1.5 to 2 Hours from Denver
An extra half hour in the car buys you fewer crowds and bigger views on these Colorado hikes near Denver. Two of these hikes sit on the backside of Pikes Peak near Woodland Park, and the third climbs above 11,000 feet outside Breckenridge, so pack layers and get an early start.
11. Elder-Fehn Trail
Chris, Misha, and I spent the 4th of July here for some peace and quiet. The trail serves up views of Pikes Peak and The Crags, and we added a stretch of the Vayhinger Trail out to North Catamount Reservoir. Make a day of it: Mueller State Park is 15 minutes away for a picnic, and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is close by.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5 miles (8 km) round trip; 7.3 miles (12 km) with the Vayhinger add-on
- Elevation Gain: 1,772 feet (540 m) with the add-on
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Permit: None
12. The Crags
The Crags sits on the backside of Pikes Peak, and its summit opens up to the Rampart Range, Ute Pass, and the blue Catamount reservoirs. The lot gets crowded, so arrive early. Chris had to get creative to find us a spot. The climb is steady but manageable, which made it a great first hike of the season when we were a little out of hiking shape.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: About 1,700 feet (518 m)
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Permit: None
13. McCullough Gulch Trail
The access road was closed on our visit, which added 2 miles just to reach the trailhead, so you may have to factor that in. Starting around 11,000 feet with zero acclimation, this one humbled us fast: boulder scrambles, root-covered trail, and a slow climb above 12,000 feet. This is one of the Colorado hikes with waterfalls, and it was stunning. The “lake” at the top (Upper Blue Reservoir) was a letdown by comparison.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Distance: 6.4 miles (10 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,607 feet (490 m)
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Permit: Parking reservation required; shuttle available from Breckenridge
Related Post: 21 Epic Things to Do In Breckenridge, Colorado this Summer
Rocky Mountain National Park Day Hikes
Twelve hikes on this list fall inside Rocky Mountain National Park. From mid-May through mid-October, that means a timed entry reservation through Recreation.gov is required in addition to an America the Beautiful park pass or park entrance fee.
Be sure to book a GuideAlong Audio Tour before you go. Check out my honest review here.
RMNP Basics from May to October
- Timed Entry Reservation — Needed for hikes everywhere in RMNP from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, excluding Bear Lake Road. You can enter the park (except for Bear Lake Road) before 9:00 am and after 2:00 pm without a reservation.
- Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road — Needed for the Bear Lake Road Corridor from 5:00 am – 6:00 pm. Rangers check your reservation at a second station at the corridor entrance. This reservation also covers the rest of the park.
- Reservations are only $2.
- You get a 2-hour entry window but can stay in the park as long as you like.
- Reservations are released monthly on Recreation.gov at 8:00 am, and summer dates go within minutes. For example, July reservations open June 1.
- Additional reservations are released at 7:00 pm the night before your arrival date on a first-come, first-served basis.
- The Bear Lake parking lot fills fast. Do yourself a favor and park at the Park & Ride at the start of Bear Lake Road and take the shuttle up to the Bierstadt Trailhead, Glacier Gorge Junction or Bear Lake. The shuttle isn’t optional in summer—rangers WILL turn you back at the Bear Lake Trailhead lot if it’s full. Just saying.
Related Post: 35 Essential Tips for Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park
14. Ouzel Lake Trail: Wild Basin
Chris and I planned to stop at Ouzel Falls but couldn’t resist pushing on to the lake. This is one of the best Colorado hikes with waterfalls. Three in fact: Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades, and Ouzel Falls all make easy turnaround points. Past Ouzel Falls, the crowds thin out fast. Arrive early, because Wild Basin parking fills up.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Distance: 10.2 miles (16 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,695 feet (517 m)
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation
15. Lily Lake Loop: Estes Park (Hwy 7)
Lily Lake is just over 6 miles outside of Estes Park and still within the boundaries of RMNP. It’s a flat, easy mile with barely any effort—wheelchair friendly too. We had it almost to ourselves under a stunningly blue sky, with clear views back toward Longs Peak and Mount Meeker the whole way around.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.8 mile (1.3 km) loop
- Elevation Gain: 32 feet (10 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; a good rainy-day or low-energy option
- Permit: We’ve never needed a RMNP reservation here, but rangers do check periodically
16. Gem Lake Trail: Lumpy Ridge
Paul Bunyan’s Boot, a granite slab with a hole clean through it, is worth the hike on its own. Push past Gem Lake to Balanced Rock, which looks like one gentle nudge would tip it over. No dogs are allowed on this trail, and the lot fills early.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 987 feet (301 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation
17. Deer Mountain Trail: Beaver Meadows
This trail starts climbing from the roadside parking at Deer Ridge Junction and rarely lets up. We hiked it in winter, and it was windy and icy enough that I slipped a few times on the way down. The summit view is worth it: Estes Park on one side, the heart of RMNP on the other.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 40 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6.1 miles (10 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,397 feet (426 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Not in the Winter!
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation in summer.
Pro Tip * If you want one of the best views, hike this trail early in the morning to watch the sun rise over Estes Park. I hear it is epic.
18. Alberta Falls Trail: Bear Lake Road Corridor
Alberta Falls is one of our family’s favorite easy hikes: well-marked, family-friendly, and doable for almost any age or fitness level. The Glacier Gorge Trailhead lot fills fast, so take the shuttle. Chris and I later discovered on the AllTrails App that the trail keeps going past the falls to Mills Lake, Black Lake, and Lake Haiyaha.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min, plus the shuttle
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 236 feet (72 m)
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation + Bear Lake Road
19. Bear Lake Nature Trail: Bear Lake Road Corridor
We walked this loop when the girls were younger, with Hallett Peak looming over the far shore the whole way. These days it’s our launching pad for Lake Haiyaha, Lake Helene, and Odessa Lake. It’s flat, easy, and one of the most photographed spots in the park.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min, plus the shuttle
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.7 miles (1.1 km) loop
- Elevation Gain: 49 feet (15 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; sunrise or dusk to avoid crowds
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation + Bear Lake Road
20. Bierstadt Lake Trail: Bear Lake Road Corridor
Chris and I have hiked into Bierstadt Lake from both ends and learned the hard way: don’t start at the Bierstadt Trailhead. That side throws almost 600 feet of switchbacks at you in under a mile. Start at Bear Lake instead and hike down. You’ll get the same lake, easy loop, and Longs Peak views with a fraction of the climb.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min, plus the shuttle
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate from the Bear Lake Trailhead
- Distance: 4.5 miles (7 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 656 feet (200 m)
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation + Bear Lake Road
21. Black Lake: Bear Lake Road Corridor
This hike taught me my limits. My sweet spot is 5 to 6 miles, and 8 is my ceiling, so Black Lake blew past both. Past Mills and Jewel Lakes, expect marshy boardwalks, thinning crowds, and steep stone steps beside Ribbon Falls before Black Lake comes into view. Bring trekking poles for the descent.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min, plus the shuttle
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Distance: 9.6 miles (15.4 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet (518 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Summer through early fall; snow can linger into July
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation + Bear Lake Road
22. Lake Haiyaha: Bear Lake Road Corridor
Lake Haiyaha is my favorite hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Chris and I walked past the turnoff several times before finally tacking it onto a hike to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes. Lake Haiyaha was the lake that caused a quick intake of breath as we scrambled over giant boulders to reach it.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min, plus the shuttle
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4.2 miles (6.8 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 745 feet (227 m)
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation + Bear Lake Road
Related Post: 23 Instagram Worthy Beautiful Lakes Around the World
23. Mills Lake Trail: Bear Lake Road Corridor
We hiked to Mills Lake in January once, and the crampons Chris gave me for Christmas made all the difference on the icy trail near the lake. This hike is just as good in summer, with clear water and big views of Longs Peak.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min, plus the shuttle
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5.4 miles (9 km)
- Elevation Gain: 836 feet (255 m)
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation + Bear Lake Road
24. Ypsilon Lake: Fall River (Lawn Lake Trailhead)
Years ago we turned back on this trail with our girls because it was too steep. Chris and I finally finished it on a September day, and the trail is basically all uphill until the lake. At the top, we ate lunch watching trout cruise right along the shore, with the aspens just starting to turn. Start at the Lawn Lake Trailhead off Old Fall River Road.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 1 hr 45 min
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Distance: 9 miles (14 km)
- Elevation Gain: 2,424 feet (739 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Summer through early fall; snow can linger into July
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation
25. East Inlet Trail: West Side (Grand Lake)
Start with the easy 0.3 miles to Adams Falls, which is the perfect turnaround for young families. Past the falls, the trail opens into a wide meadow with a river winding through it, and then the real climbing begins. By mile 4.5, Chris and I were ready to quit, but one more push got us to the boulders at Lone Pine Lake. Even if you turn around early, the meadow alone is worth the visit.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 2 hr 15 min
- Difficulty: Easy to Adams Falls; Challenging to Lone Pine Lake
- Distance: 0.8 miles (1.3 km) to Adams Falls and back; 11.2 miles (18 km) to Lone Pine Lake and back
- Elevation Gain: 104 feet (32 m) to Adams Falls; 1,804 feet (550 m) to Lone Pine Lake
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round to the falls and meadow; May to October to Lone Pine Lake
- Permit: RMNP timed entry reservation
Colorado Hikes Worth the Longer Drive
These aren’t quick day trips from Denver, but they’re too good to leave off the list. Turn them into a weekend: pair Hanging Lake with Glenwood Springs, Great Sand Dunes with Zapata Falls, and Maroon Bells with Aspen.
26. Hanging Lake Trail
This trail doesn’t ease you in. It’s steps and boulders straight up, crossing a creek on seven or eight bridges along the way. Detour to Spouting Rock first, where a waterfall bursts out of the mountainside and you can walk behind it. Then climb back down to Hanging Lake, where the water is so clear you can watch fish swim below the surface.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 2 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: 3.1 miles (5 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,062 feet (324 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings, May to October, book early as permits sell out
- Permit: Hanging Lake reservation required in peak season, per person fee
27. Zapata Falls
Fair warning: the road to the lot is rough. Our Honda Pilot bounced through ruts the whole way, so take it slow in a small sedan. To actually see the falls, you’ll wade upstream through an icy creek. Bring water shoes, not flip-flops. I’m not a cold-water kind of girl, and it was still worth it.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 3 hr 30 min
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.8 miles (1.3 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 193 feet (59 m)
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Permit: None; free trail on BLM and national forest land
28. Great Sand Dunes: High Dune Loop
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve is the only place in Colorado where you hike a mountain of sand instead of rock. There’s no marked trail to the top, so just pick a line along the ridges and expect serious calf burn. Summer sand can hit 150°F. Chris hiked in water shoes and had hot sand in them the entire time. Wear real shoes and go early or late in the day.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 3 hr 45 min
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Distance: 3.4 miles (5 km) round trip
- Elevation Gain: 643 feet (196 m)
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Permit: America the Beautiful Pass or park entrance fee; no timed-entry reservation
29. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail
Considered the most photographed mountains in North America, the Maroon Bells rise above Maroon Lake in a row of wine-colored 14,000-foot peaks. Chris and I ate lunch on a bench overlooking the lake and did some quality people watching. Some of the footwear choices were questionable. The Scenic Loop is easy and family-friendly. Unless you arrive very early, plan on taking the shuttle from Aspen Highlands.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 4 hr
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 1.9 miles (3 km)
- Elevation Gain: 49 feet (15 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Fall, early morning or golden hour for photos
- Permit: Reservation required May through October
Related Post: 25 Brilliant iPhone Travel Photography Tips You’ll Actually Use
30. Perimeter Trail in Ouray
If you start near the Ouray Visitor Center, the first stretch is a steep climb just to reach the trail. After that, most of the loop is easy going. You can hop on or off at several points and walk back into town. Along the way, you’ll pass Cascade Falls and get views of the Ouray Via Ferrata across the river.
- Drive from Denver: ~ 5 hr 45 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5.6 mile (9 km) loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,489 feet (454 m)
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall; can ice over in winter
- Permit: None; open year-round
Where to Stay for Longer Drives
Plan ahead for your next adventure with the perfect place to stay.
Colorado Hiking Gear List
Colorado weather can swing from sunshine to hail in an afternoon, and the altitude makes everything harder. Pack for the mountain you’re climbing, not the forecast at the trailhead. Here’s what Chris and I carry on our day hikes.
Day Hiking Gear
- Plenty of extra water and a CamelBak hydropack or hiking backpack with hydration pack. Zipfizz is great to add to your water bottle for a little extra oomph.
- Snacks.
- Bug spray.
- Extra sun protection: sunscreen, a hat/visor, and sunglasses.
- Packable rain jacket.
- Hiking or trekking poles.
- A bag to pack out all of your trash: fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper, and other waste.
- I just bring my smartphone when hiking.
- The North Face Recon backpack for Chris and The North Face Surge Luxe for me.
- Hiking boots are essential for all hikes—sturdy, comfortable footwear. Chris loves his Merrells. I am breaking in a new pair of Vasque Hiking Boots.
- Fleece layer or puffy jacket (depending on the time of year) — If you are planning a day hike in the winter months, you really need winter hiking equipment. There is a Hiking & Cold Weather Gear section on my Amazon Storefront.
- Winter day hikes means you also get to be in the cool kids crampons club (they are so helpful)! These are the best microspikes for your winter hikes.
Heading to Denver in December? Pair a crisp winter hike with some of the city’s most festive Denver Christmas events, from glowing light displays to cozy holiday markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day hikes near Denver?
It depends on how far you want to drive. For a quick escape, try Spruce Mountain Open Space or Devil’s Head Lookout. For alpine lakes, Lake Haiyaha and Mills Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park are hard to beat. Lake Haiyaha is my personal favorite.
How far are the closest hikes to Denver?
The closest hike on this list, Spruce Mountain Open Space, is about 50 minutes from downtown Denver. Ten hikes on the list are within about 1.5 hours, and most Rocky Mountain National Park trailheads take 1.5 to 2 hours to reach.
Do I need a reservation to hike in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Yes, from late spring through early fall. Rocky Mountain National Park requires a timed entry reservation during peak hours, plus a separate reservation for the Bear Lake Road Corridor. You can skip the reservation by entering the rest of the park before 9:00 am or after 2:00 pm.
What are the best Colorado hikes with waterfalls near Denver?
Alberta Falls is the easiest waterfall hike on this list. The Ouzel Lake Trail passes three waterfalls, and Catamount Falls makes a great stop on the Mt. Dewey loop. If you’re willing to drive farther, Hanging Lake and Zapata Falls are worth the extra miles.
What is the best time of year for day hikes near Denver?
June through September is ideal, when most trails are snow-free. Lower-elevation trails like Spruce Mountain, Garden of the Gods, and Gem Lake work year-round. Fall brings golden aspens and fewer crowds.
What are some tips for hiking in Colorado?
1. Start early to beat the crowds and the afternoon thunderstorms.
2. Check the weather before you leave.
3. Give yourself time to acclimate to the altitude.
4. Drink more water than you think you need.
What are some things you should NOT do while hiking?
1. Don’t be a loud and obnoxious hiker.
2. Don’t litter.
3. Don’t drink alcohol.
4. Don’t ignore medical conditions as you hike.
5. Don’t pee in streams!
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Lace Up & Hit the Trail
Colorado hikes have a double meaning when it comes to “breathtaking”—the scenery will leave you speechless and the elevation will remind you that you’re not at sea level anymore. Whether you’re a casual Sunday hiker or someone who considers a 10-mile day a warm-up, this list has something worth adding to your Colorado hiking bucket list. Before you head out, grab my free Day Hike Packing List so you show up prepared for whatever the trail throws at you.
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These hikes look incredible! The Colorado landscapes look amazing! I’d love to hike to see Sprouting Rock Falls, it looks like such a magical waterfall! Thanks for the wonderful guide, I ope I’m able to visit Colorado some time to tick a few off my bucket list!
We have loved hiking in Colorado. Twenty years and we still haven’t run out of new hikes.
I’ve always wanted to spend at least a month or even more in Colorado and do as many hikes as possible. This is a fantastic list of hikes, the views are amazing and the waterfall ones as just stunning. I really hope I can do a few of them in the future, so thank you for sharing this list!
I’m sure you can find hikes that you will love here. Rest up those feet!
I hope to make it back to CO one day! Pinned for when I do 🙂
Oh, I hope you do. There are so many amazing things to see and do.
Oh this is my sign to take a trip to Colorado. I have only been to Denver, but would love to explore more. Such a great list of hikes! Pinning so I have this guide when I visit again!
Thanks for pinning. I am sure you would love trying out some of these hikes.
These hikes look amazing. I want to go so bad! I love Colorado. Haven’t been there in about 10 years. I think it’s time to take a trip…
Yep, it is time to come back to Colorado.
Beautiful trails and hikes in Colorado! We have done Hanging Lake but that is it on this epic list. Thanks for sharing.
That is an awesome hike for sure. We happened to hike it last month before all of the mud slides have caused damage. Here’s hoping it will recover quickly.
I hope that the world begins to open back up to travel so you can come visit Colorado.
Wish I had had this list for our last Colorado road trip! We didn’t get to do half of these and I would’ve loved to! Ouzel Lake looks absolutely stunning! Can’t wait to hike there again.
Hope you can make it back soon!
We are doing a road trip to the west coast in the fall and hope to stop in Colorado. I am saving this post for potential hikes in Colorado along the way. I love the variety and amazing scenery to be found.
You won’t be disappointed.
This is such a helpful guide. I love the way you’ve set out the difficulty and best time for each hike, makes planning so much easier.
Well, some people might find the hikes easier or more difficult, but hopefully it is a general guide.
Such great hikes. Would love to do one of the hikes in winter. I love walking on a frozen lake (or river) although I hope I don’t get wet feet.
These hikes look awesome! I’ve maybe only done half of these. RMNP really has some gorgeous trails, and I especially love ones with waterfalls, so I’ll have to add Alberta to my list next time we go!
I’ll be hiking up past Alberta Falls this weekend. Check my Instagram feed for an updated photo or two.
Lone Pine Lake in the snow is now on my bucket list! Thank you for the inspiration. I just can’t wait to get back to Colorado!
At least the meadow in the snow is awesome. The 11-mile hike to the lake would be a challenge for me.
this looks so awesome, i could definitely use some of this colarado air!
Well, it is filled with California smoke right now. Fingers crossed it blows out of here soon.
I have never been to Colorado, but it seems amazing! I would love to see all those waterfalls and lakes.
I hope you can come and see for yourself! Colorado is pretty amazing.
I love Colorado! I got to go there 2 years ago and would love to go back to visit someday! Out of your list, I’ve only done the Lily Lake Loop + Zapata Falls so far, but definitely hoping that’ll change soon!
I would love to visit Colorado one day! I am saving your post for the future.
So very beautiful! I’d love to visit Colorado! Congrats on hitting your hike goal! 22 hikes since January is impressive!! Great guide!
Thanks! We are planning for hike #26 tomorrow!
That’s exciting you get to plan a trip back and cool that you plan travel so far in advance!
Wow, 21 hikes in a year? Honestly, I’m impressed! And most of these places look stunning, so I can understand why would you like to do more of it. Well done!
This is such a great post! I love that hiking goal you set too, how fun! My husband works out of Colorado, so I’ll keep these hikes on my radar for the next time I tag along on one of his work trips. Thanks for sharing!
Those hikes look stunning, and with your detailed guide with information like difficulty and time to visit! This guide got everything I’d need to plan for the trip, will definitely save this for future when I’m planning my trip to Colorado!
Colorado has so many hikes. I could do a number of posts on all of the amazing hikes here.
This is a great list of amazing Colorado hikes, and I love all the details you’ve included – had to laugh at the Zapata falls tip about wearing a sports bra, LOL! We have a hike near us like that, too.
I love your curated list of the 15 most breathtaking (literally and figuratively) hikes in Colorado! Gorgeous photos and appreciate your insider’s tips and recommendations.
These photos are unbelievable! Great summary of different places to visit.
Thanks. The pandemic gave us a great opportunity to explore Colorado more.
We’ve hiked many of these and loved them! So many amazing trails in CO!
Such an inspirational post. I hope to make it to Colorado very soon.
Wow there are so many awesome hikes to choose from here! We visited Glenwood Springs years ago and found it to be an incredible place. I wished that I had known about the hike there? Thank you for a great read, will have to get back out there someday soon!
I always love going on a hike and these recommendations look just perfect! Will definitely save this for the moment I visit Denver 🙂
This is a great list! I have actually been to Colorado many times but haven’t spent much time hiking. I’ll have to save this list for my next trip!
If I can get to Denver this year for a business trip, I want to hike Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park and Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Great post!
Colorado is so picturesque and has so many great hikes! I haven’t made it to Colorado yet but Estes Park always calls to me!
Oh my goodness they are all so beautiful. It’s hard to decide which ones to pick. The East Inlet Trailhead to Lone Pine Lake looks incredible. Thank you so much for sharing. This really makes me want to visit Colorado to go hiking!
Wow! Lake Haiyaha is stunning!! I need to visit!
These hikes look amazing – which one to choose first?
Colorado is my absolute favourite state, and would love to be able to live there. This is probably one of the most beautiful in the USA.
If I ever visit Colorado, I will make sure to go to Alberta Falls.
When in the fall do you have to start being worried about snow in the national parks?
It varies. You could get snow as early as September or later in October.
We definitely would want to head out for some hikes when we finally make it to Denver. I love the variety in sights on the hikes you found. And great to know there are some for all skill levels!
You always have the best hiking guides, and this one did not disappoint. There are so many great options for hikes near Denver. Lake Haiyaha would be my first stop. It looks so beautiful.
Great list! We’ve never tried Zapata Falls, so adding this one to our list. One of our other favorites near Denver is Herman Gulch, especially when the wildflowers are in bloom.
These hikes look amazing. I like the detail you provide on each, especially the difficulty level. izzy
So many incredible hikes. I love detailed information which makes it easier to plan your itinerary. Thanks for sharing!
So many great hikes! I would enjoy doing some of the easier ones. The scenery along these hikes is stunning, especially Hanging Lake.
So many beautiful places to hike in Colorado! Such a gorgeous state 🙂
Fantastic content!