Despite not technically being in the mountains, Denver’s access to hiking makes it an incredible city for outdoor recreation. It’s unique positioning also allows for a quick getaway to hundreds of year round hiking opportunities. Within a short drive, you can find yourself completely immersed in natural beauty. Here is your guide to the best hikes within 30 minutes of Denver.
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Red Rocks Trading Post Trail
Found just below the famous music venue, this easy hike is a must do for anyone visiting Denver. It’s a quick 1.5 mile trail that provides you with astonishing views of the amphitheater and its red rock sandstone. While these geological features are certainly unique, they are also over 300 million years old and provide a striking contrast to the golden toned mountains surrounding the area.
Additionally, be sure to explore the venue, as it’s open year round and free to wander around. Red Rocks also hosts yoga, drive in movies, and a free music museum.
North Table Mountain
Only 20 minutes from Denver, Golden’s North Table Mountain is a great spot for a quick escape from the city. There are over 15 miles of different trails here and views of both the mountains and the Denver skyline. We recommend the Mesa Top Loop, which is a moderate 3.2 mile trail. This park is also an amazing place to watch the sunset.
This spot can get very busy on the weekends, so either arrive early to hike or go later in the afternoon for the sunset. It’s a perfect place for a picnic lunch/dinner as well!
Beaver Brook Trail
Found in Windy Saddle Park, this hike is incredible for a few reasons. First, it is the best spot to watch sunrises over Denver, as well as fiery sunsets over the mountains. Second, the drive up to the trailhead is very scenic. The winding road to Windy Saddle has views of Golden, Denver and also the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Check out the Beaver Brook Trail here, which is a 13 mile out and back. The best thing about this trail is that you can hike as far as you want, then easily head back.
Royal Arch Trail
This wonderful hike is the furthest from Denver, as it’s actually closer to Boulder. The trail itself is 3.3 mile out & back. It has almost 1,500 feet of elevation gain, so it’s the most challenging of the hikes listed here. However, the views at the top of the sandstone arch are definitely worth the effort to get here.
Just a note – the trail is part of the Boulder Open Space, which requires a fee for parking at the trailhead.
Enjoy these hikes!
Denver is a wonderful city for both the outdoors and urban life. The Rocky Mountains dominate the background of the city as well as the recreation opportunities here. Hope you enjoyed this guide to the best hikes within 30 minutes of Denver.
For additional Colorado information, check out our Denver getaway ideas, as well as the best ski towns and most scenic drives.