Experience Denver on a Gorgeous Day Hike

Denver is a hiker’s dream. With some of the country’s best destination and day hike excursion opportunities, you can find family adventure or tranquil solitude in the flats, forests, canyons and alpine passes that make up the beautiful area. Meander through vanilla-scented forests or climb rocky trails as you and your crew spend the day in the beautiful Colorado outdoors.

Here is a list of some of the best day hikes Denver and the surrounding areas have to offer. Some are better known than others but all are sure to give you a fulfilling and enjoyable day.

Inner Canyon Trail, Castlewood Canyon State Park

A family-friendly hike set among 14 miles of other trails, the Inner Canyon Trail is 1.16 miles that takes you into the canyon, through the pines of the forest and along Cherry Creek. The park can get crowded, so shoot for early mornings or off-peak days. Great for small children.

Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks Park

Another trail that is fun for the family, the Trading Post Trail is quick and easy to get to. This path weaves through the famous red rocks, and takes you into flower-filled meadows and bluff overlooks. Stop at picnic areas and explore other hiking trails in the area. The 1.4-mile loop is easy and takes about an hour. Dogs are allowed on leashes. Denver drive time is 30 minutes. Hike to the amphitheater at the top of this gorgeous year-round trail.

Deer Creek Canyon Loop Trail

Combining two trails, the Meadowlark Trail (hikers only, no mountain biking) and the Plymouth Creek Trail, the Deer Creek Canyon Loop is a destination for Denverites and visitors alike. Take this journey when the trees are changing to their autumn colors and the air is crisp. Open year-round, the 2.7-mile trail is relatively easy with gentle slopes that are ideal for kids and older hikers. Dogs are allowed on leashes.

Mt. Galbraith Loop via the Cedar Gulch Trail

Twenty-five miles from Denver, the Mt. Galbraith Loop is a nice escape from life in the city. The moderate trail allows you to breathe in the fresh air of the foothills and watch cliff-nesting golden eagles and big horn sheep. Start your trek along the stream, follow the wildflowers and continue on under ponderosa pines. Parts of the trail can get rocky, so be sure you have your best foot forward, keep abreast of the changing landscape and make sure everyone is wearing solid hiking shoes or boots with flexible midsoles and can withstand changing terrain. Safety is of the utmost importance. The 4.9-mile round-trip trail is best during spring, summer and fall. Dogs are allowed on leashes.

Mt. Falcon Trail

Weekend warriors frequent this 4.6-mile trail every chance they get. The easy hike winds through wildflowers, along mountain vistas and lies next to a burned-down old mansion. Thrillest.com suggests hiking the trail at night to experience the amazing views that set Mt. Falcon apart from the rest – including the Red Rocks Amphitheater, where you can easily hear and see the spectacle of a show and the flickering lights of a sleeping Denver. The dog-friendly trail is 27 miles away from Denver and best hiked March to October.

Visit Backpacker and Every Trail for more hiking adventures.