The most accessible hikes in Denver

A view of Red Rocks from the east side of the Mount Falcon Castle and Tower Hike.
Photo: Genessa Gutzait · The Sentry

Five hikes for all experience levels

Colorado is renowned for its outdoor activities, so it’s only natural that hiking is a popular pastime among nature lovers who call the state their home or choose it as their vacation destination. Despite the range of experience that hikers have, it’s beneficial to know some of the best hikes in the Denver area to get the most out of the beautiful place. These five trails should be considered as the top contenders on anyone’s hiking list.

The Continental Divide Trail spans across five states with one of them luckily being Colorado. Day hikes are available for those who wish to take a leisurely stroll. For those up to a challenge, the trails extened to cover up to 800 miles within the state. The day hikes still offer the same amazing views that capture the true essence of Colorado in a variety of landscapes.

The Trading Post Trail located near Red Rocks Amphitheater gives hikers the opportunity to admire the colored rock formations that gave the area its name. In addition to the red scenery, hikers can keep their eyes open for wildlife, such as red foxes and prairie dogs, on this easygoing 1.4-mile trail.

Mount Falcon Castle and Tower Hike offers more views of Red Rocks while also providing sights of the city of Denver and the mountains that surround it. At just over two miles, the trail is accessible for all experience levels. Dog-lovers are encouraged to hike this trail, as it is dog friendly in most areas as long as pets are on a leash. In addition to hiking, this trail has horseback riding and mountain biking, giving every outdoor lover an activity to do.

Glacier Gorge Trailhead is a moderate 5.3-mile hike in Rocky Mountain National Park that gives hikers the chance to take in breathtaking aquatic views. Alberta Falls, a 30-foot waterfall, can be seen less than a mile into the hike. Glacier Falls is another waterfall that can be viewed after passing through areas known as Glacier Gorge and Glacier Creek. Lastly, hikers reach the body of water that the trail is most famously known for—Mills Lake, a serene area to enjoy a picnic, that is named after the father of the Rocky Mountain Park, Enos Mills. This trail also has many outlets to other trails, giving hikers ample opportunities to explore elsewhere.

Evergreen Lake Trail is a relaxing 1.3-mile hike that is family friendly. With places in the area to fish and rent boats, hikers can complete their outing with a wide range of activities in the summer. In winter, the lake freezes over and becomes an ice rink for visitors, making this trail a year-round sensation.

These trail options are only a piece of the hiking trail maze that composes Colorado, but they allow hikers of all experiences to enjoy and explore the outdoors.