Day Trips from Denver
← All Denver day tripsDay Trips from Denver: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Denver, CO. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Denver
Staunton State Park
Pine, CO 80470
Just 47 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 2,151 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Castlewood Canyon State Park
Franktown, CO 80116
Just 46 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 3,528 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden, CO 80403
Just 46 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 2,883 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest Pawnee National Grasslands
CO 80512, USA
Just 48 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 1,980 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gateway Natural Area
Bellvue, CO 80512
Just 1 hr 25 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 349 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Roxborough State Park
Littleton, CO 80125
Just 41 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 2,671 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mueller State Park
Divide, CO 80814
Just 1 hr 51 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 1,842 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Springs, CO 80025
Just 41 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 4,076 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Red Rock Canyon
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Just 1 hr 13 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 7,032 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Seven Bridges Trail
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Just 1 hr 25 min from Denver, rated 4.8 stars by 1,285 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve
Golden, CO 80401
Just 29 min from Denver, rated 4.7 stars by 1,767 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Red Mountain Open Space
Wellington, CO 80549
Just 1 hr 44 min from Denver, rated 4.7 stars by 213 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Denver
What are the best hiking trails near Denver, CO?
The best hikes near Denver range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Denver?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Denver offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Denver?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Denver are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Denver?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Denver. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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