6 Scenic Colorado Hikes Near Denver You’ll Want to Do Again and Again

1. Nymph, Dream, Emerald, and Haiyaha Lakes – Rocky Mountain National Park

A stunning alpine hike with multiple lakes and glacier views

This popular trail delivers everything you want in a Rocky Mountain hike. Start from the Bear Lake Trailhead and pass a series of lakes, each more beautiful than the last. End at Tyndall Glacier for dramatic views and cool alpine air.

📍 Hike the trail on AllTrails 🥾 Distance: 5 miles round trip
⭐ Tip: Reservations are required May through October - timed entry reservations through rec.gov are available the day before at 7pm sharp (they go fast!) In the summer, go early in the day for the best chance of seeing moose at Sheep Lake!

2. Mountain Lion Trail – Golden Gate Canyon State Park

A quiet trail with views, trees, and wildlife

This lesser-known hike offers a peaceful forest setting with great elevation gain and sweeping views at the top. It is a great option if you want a solid workout without the crowds.

📍 Hike the trail on AllTrails
🥾 Distance: 6.8 miles round trip
⭐ Tip: Bring layers, especially in the shoulder seasons. A park fee is required. Bring your Keep Colorado Wild Pass if you have one. If not, the Daily Vehicle Pass is $12. Cash is highly recommended, or you can pay at the Visitors Center.

3. Tilting Mesa to Mesa Top Loop – Golden

A unique mesa-top hike with panoramic views in all directions

Located in Golden, this loop trail combines steep switchbacks with wide-open mesa views. Enjoy panoramic scenery of the Front Range, downtown Denver, and more. After your hike, head to New Terrain Brewing Company for a well-earned drink and rotating food trucks.

📍 Hike the trail on AllTrails
🥾 Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
⭐ Tip: Start early in summer to avoid the midday sun

4. Chautauqua and Bluebell Trail Loop – Boulder

Classic Flatirons hike with forest, wildflowers, and city views

This scenic loop is a Boulder favorite for a reason. You’ll wind through meadows, shaded pine forest, and up toward the Flatirons. Great for wildflower season and beginner-friendly with a moderate challenge.

📍 Hike the trail on AllTrails
🥾 Distance: 1.5 mile loop
⭐ Tip: Parking fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early

5. Castle Meadow and Tower Trails – Mount Falcon Park

A scenic canyon hike with historic ruins and rocky bluffs

This trail loops through Castlewood Canyon’s best features, including creekside paths, canyon overlooks, and the remains of an old dam. It is close to Denver and can easily be done on a weekday evening.

📍 Hike the trail on AllTrails
🥾 Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
⭐ Tip: Also a great spot for photos at golden hour.

6. Trading Post Trail – Red Rocks Park

Short and sweet loop through iconic red rock formations

This 1.5-mile loop trail is perfect for visitors or locals looking for a quick hit of scenery. It winds through towering sandstone formations with great views throughout.

📍 Hike the trail on AllTrails
🥾 Distance: 1.5-mile loop
⭐ Tip: Combine this with a visit to Red Rocks Amphitheatre or a pre-show walk

There is always a trail worth taking

Colorado is full of beautiful places to explore, and these hikes offer a mix of challenge and reward that keeps us coming back. If you are looking to live closer to the mountains or simply want a home base that gives you easy access to the outdoors, we are always here to help.

Contact The Northrop Group at thenorthropgroup.com or 303.525.0200

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Contact The Northrop Group at thenorthropgroup.com or 303.525.0200.

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