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Trail among the red rocks near Denver

Top Picks: Easy Hiking and Mountain Biking near Denver

With such diversity of trails around Denver, easy adventures include everything from after-work jaunts to a 14er summit.

Mountain Biking, Hiking Easy, Moderate

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Trail among the red rocks near Denver
Trail among the red rocks near Denver Photo: apasciuto

Description

Set at the foot of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is close to an unbelievable wealth of adventures. Within an hour’s drive from the city, you can find everything from relaxed hikes in the foothills to committing treks in the alpine. There are so many to choose from, in fact, that narrowing down the choice of where to go can seem overwhelming... especially if you are worried about getting in over your head on a trail that might be too tough.

Luckily, there are plenty of easy yet rewarding hikes and rides—you just have to know where to go. Here’s a list of beginner and family-friendly adventures that offer a satisfying taste of the Front Range. On these trails, you’ll encounter mountain vistas, city skyline views, historic sites, flowing rivers, lush forests, rock formations, wildlife, wildflowers, and more. There’s even a 14,000-foot summit in the mix. Check them out and find the one that’s right for you.

Routes included

Mount Evans Summit Trail

Mount Evans Summit Trail

Test your legs and lungs above 14,000 feet on this short hike to one of Colorado's highest summits.

Moderate Hiking

Distance
918 m
Ascent
36 m
Descent
36 m

Waterton Canyon

Waterton Canyon

Easy hike or jog beside a swift river in a forested gorge with plentiful wildlife.

Easy Hiking

Distance
20 km
Ascent
219 m
Descent
219 m

South Valley Loop

South Valley Loop

A quick after-work ride near Littleton, or a fun test for riders trying to step up their skills.

Easy Mountain Biking

Distance
5.9 km
Ascent
187 m
Descent
186 m

Panorama Point Trail

Panorama Point Trail

Hiker-only trail to an overlook of the Rocky Mountains at a bouldery outcrop.

Moderate Hiking

Distance
4.6 km
Ascent
203 m
Descent
202 m

Green Mountain -> Rooney Valley Loop

Green Mountain -> Rooney Valley Loop

Quick ride to the top of Green Mountain, then back down on fun and scenic trails.

Moderate Mountain Biking

Distance
11 km
Ascent
279 m
Descent
279 m

Mount Falcon: Castle Trail West Loop

Mount Falcon: Castle Trail West Loop

Family-friendly biking loop on Mount Falcon, featuring "The Castle" ruins and mountaintop views..

Easy Mountain Biking

Distance
3.4 km
Ascent
83 m
Descent
83 m
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Related guidebooks

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