Keep in mind that given Chautauqua’s in-your-face beauty and close proximity to US-36, these are Boulder’s most popular trails for visitors. If you'd like to have a goal in mind, the 1st Flatiron Trail is approximately 2.9 miles round-trip with good views back out over Boulder, and Royal Arch is 3.2 miles round-trip. A number of easy trails weave from the Chautauqua Ranger Station across Bluebell Mesa, and many people simply walk until they want to turn around. The historic hamlet of Chautauqua sits directly beneath the Flatirons with big views and numerous area hikes. Chautauqua and The Mesa Trail (Boulder)Ībout 30 miles west of Denver is the outdoor mecca of Boulder. on concert days, which are more frequent than not in the summer months. Make sure to get there early as everything closes at around 2 p.m. South of the Amphitheater is the Trading Post Trail: a well-groomed 2.8-mile loop with beautiful views. The whole area is a public park (Red Rocks Mountain Park) and known for the dramatic rocky outcroppings shooting out of the foothills. Less than 20 miles from downtown is the tiny town of Morrison and one of the leading concert venues in the country. The Trading Post Trail is the easiest and most family-friendly hike on this list, but it’s still a great way to get out of Denver, stretch your legs, take in some fresh mountain air, and even visit the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater. Start: South parking lots at Red Rocks ( map) Trading Post Trail (Red Rocks Mountain Park) Those heading for the high country should plan on getting up early and summiting around midday before weather moves in.ġ. In addition, keep in mind that afternoon storms are common in the summertime, and lightning in particular. All Colorado hikers should keep a keen eye on elevation and make sure to drink water and not push your body past its comfortable limits. Below are our picks for the best day hikes from Denver, ranging from relatively easy strolls in the foothills to the highest 14er in the state (and second highest peak in the contiguous United States). From ski bums to cross-country transplants who moved here for the outdoors, nobody loves their mountains more than Coloradans.

Day trips from denver