12 favorite trails for amazing day hikes near Denver. Do one of these and you will be itching to do another one!
Different levels of skills for each one but certainly doable with acclimation to altitude and hiking at your own pace.
Guaranteed to get you hooked on hiking!
SILVER DOLLAR TRAIL
GUANELLA PASS
Silver Dollar Lakes Trail on stunning Guanella Pass is a true Colorado experience! Beautiful dense pine forest to high above timberline reaching spectacular views while passing one alpine lake, being greeted by a 2nd alpine lake, and reaching the 3rd lake at 12,178 in elevation.
>>> READ MORE!
HERMAN GULCH TRAIL
BAKERVILLE, CO
Herman Gulch Trail, a heart-pumping hike through fields of wildflowers, and landing at a crystal clear alpine lake surrounded by the Continental Divide Peaks.
One of the most sought-after hikes in the front range of Colorado, for good reasons. I’ve often hiked here in the offseason but decided to try a summer day which turned out to be a spectacular display of wildflowers!
>>> READ MORE!
CHICAGO LAKES TRAIL
MT EVANS WILDERNESS
Chicago Lakes Trail is drop-dead gorgeous. A popular Colorado hike in the summer but in winter it’s quiet and absolutely gorgeous. Tucked behind Mt Evans 14er, the views of snow-capped peaks are breathtaking as you descend a narrow trail along slight cliff edges until reaching the valley floor. Soon hiking uphill again into snow-laden forests until reaching the first lake and onto more spectacular hiking.
>>> READ MORE!
BUTLER GULCH TRAIL
EMPIRE, CO
Butler Gulch is an incredibly beautiful hike amid a sprinkling of wildflowers, old mining remnants, a waterfall, and snow-capped peaks. Take the loop hike and find unimaginable views that take your breath away while Marmots and Pikas check you out. One of our favorite day hikes.
>>> READ MORE!
> CLICK HERE for practical gear that we love at Crazy About Colorado and have in our backpacks on every hike.
FOREST LAKES TRAIL
ROLLINSVILLE, CO
Forest Lakes Trail takes you to 2 lovely alpine lakes, one that is tranquil and one that rests among the rugged Continental Divide peaks. A gentle wide path in the first mile then an adventure as you hike higher up. Wooden bridges, meadows, and dense forests take you up to a mountain paradise hidden at the treeline. It’s a gem!
>>> READ MORE
ISABELLE LAKE & GLACIER TRAIL
BRAINARD REC AREA, WARD, CO
Isabelle Glacier Trail is like hiking into a Colorado postcard. Unmatched in its scenic beauty from beginning to end. It’s a hike that screams “this is Colorado”. You can hike to gorgeous Isabelle lake for an easier yet beautiful day or be adventurous and hike onto Isabelle Glacier.
We hiked in October and the shadows & colors were phenomenal.
>>> READ MORE!
Hiking First Aid Kit. If you don’t have it you will need it!
Consider extra hydration on any hike. Dehydration intensifies at higher altitudes.
Bear Spray. I have never had to use mine. But, having it with me is a comfort!
ST. MARY’S GLACIER
ALICE, CO near IDAHO SPRINGS, CO
St Mary’s Glacier Trail is a must-see hike in Colorado not far from Denver and doable for anyone. Avid hikers can keep on going and it just gets better! It’s a short hike to reach the Glacier and see incredible scenery plus snow year-round!
>>> READ MORE!
CRATER LAKE TRAIL
ROLLINSVILLE, CO
Crater Lakes is in the heart of the James Peaks Wilderness and the perfect day hike or backpacking weekend. Nestled just below the Continental Divide, the setting is unbeatable.
>>> READ MORE!
CHIEF MOUNTAIN TRAIL
SQUAW PASS RD, EVERGREEN, CO
Chief Mountain Trail is a great beginner summit hike. It’s a decent climb, right from the start for 1.5 miles while gaining 1000 ft in elevation. 360-degree views at the summit rival those of Colorado’s 14ers.
Once you do this trail, you’ll be excited to do more high-altitude hikes on the substantial peaks!
>>> READ MORE!
THREEMILE CREEK TRAIL
GUANELLA PASS near GRANT, CO
Threemile Creek Trail is a moderate hike through a pine & aspen forest. Numerous creek crossings as you hike up into the Mt. Evans Wilderness kept us entertained!
We encountered lots of Beaver activity and the largest Beaver Pond I’ve ever witnessed. Was a treat!
>>> READ MORE!
My personal favorite wildflower book.
Outdoor Families love this book.
Waterproof, easy carry field guides.
UPPER CHEESMAN CANYON TRAIL
DECKERS, CO
Upper Cheesman Canyon Trail is not far from Denver CO but feels miles away! Cheesman Reservoir sparkles in the bright sun as bare terrain mixed with pines line the trail. The higher you hike the more the views that sweep across the waters.
Ends at the South Platte River, the highlight of the hike!
>>> READ MORE!
BEN TYLER TRAIL
SHAWNEE, CO
Ben Tyler Trail is a hiking haven that few know about located just 20 minutes past Bailey, CO. on Hwy 285. Most just pass it by as they head to the high country for winter snowshoeing or summer hiking. Don’t, it’s quiet and a gorgeous hike as it leads you far into the Lost Creek Wilderness Area.
>>> READ MORE!
Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).
Can't wait to see you on the trail!
Find out why LEAVE NO TRACE is so important.
Find out what to do when encountering wildlife.
Do you have the appropriate gear for hiking?