3.7 km away
Forest and Meadow Loop
Pleasant nature loop with interpretive signs.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 2 km
- Ascent
- 40 m
- Descent
- 40 m
The Apex and Enchanted Forest Lollipop Loop, often simply referred to as "Apex," is one of the most easily accessible trails in Golden. Thanks to the easy-to-reach trailhead right on the outskirts of town, it is exceptionally popular, which has led to a shared-use schedule being implemented. Hikers and trail runners are only allowed to access the trails on odd-numbered calendar days (1st, 3rd, etc.).
Description
The hike winds up a beautiful, narrow valley, with a pine forest rising above on the left hand side and an exposed mountainside on the righthand side. The Enchanted Foret trail is known for its dense forest that provides a serene, peaceful setting.
While the trail can be rocky in places, all obstacles are fairly easy to overcome. The trail grade is also fairly mellow most of the way up, making for fairly consistent and approachable hiking.
Sources: https://www.theoutbound.com/colorado/hiking/apex-trail-to-enchanted-forest-trail-loop https://trails.colorado.gov/trails/enchanted-forest-13378 https://www.jeffco.us/1190/Apex-Park
Difficulty
Difficult
Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.
Low Exposure
The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.
Remoteness
Close to help in case of emergency.
Best time to visit
Features
- Picturesque
- Dog friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation
Similar routes nearby
4.2 km away
Lookout Mountain via Chimney Gulch
Challenging ascent of Lookout Mountain from its base in the town of Golden.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 11 km
- Ascent
- 487 m
- Descent
- 487 m
4.6 km away
Clear Creek Greenway to Coors Brewery
Stroll through a lively riverside park and downtown Golden to reach the brewery of Coors Banquet beer.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 2.8 km
- Ascent
- 14 m
- Descent
- 14 m
4.9 km away
Grant Terry Trail
Shady stroll along the creek—great for cooling off on a hot day.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 3 km
- Ascent
- 25 m
- Descent
- 25 m
5.6 km away
Golden Cliffs Loop
Climb to the panoramic top of North Table Mountain near Golden.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 2.8 km
- Ascent
- 189 m
- Descent
- 189 m
5.7 km away
Green Mountain -> Hayden Trail Loop
Scenic open space near the city—perfect for before or after work outings.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 5.2 km
- Ascent
- 187 m
- Descent
- 188 m
5.8 km away
Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks
Explore more of the nature and geology that surrounds Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 2.4 km
- Ascent
- 111 m
- Descent
- 106 m
6.8 km away
Bruin Bluff Loop
Enjoy mountain views, creekside shade, and peaceful picnic spots on this family-friendly stroll.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 2.7 km
- Ascent
- 62 m
- Descent
- 62 m
6.9 km away
Mount Morrison Trail
A tough ascent to the highpoint over Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 5.2 km
- Ascent
- 596 m
- Descent
- 596 m
7.1 km away
Bear Creek Trail
A beautiful greenway path beginning near Morrison and running through Lakewood.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 23 km
- Ascent
- 113 m
- Descent
- 277 m
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
Guidebooks in this area
6 routes · Hiking
Best After Work Hikes near Denver, Colorado
7 routes · Hiking
Denver Day Trip: Top 7 Scenic Hikes
7 routes · Hiking
Hikes for the Whole Family near Denver
6 routes · Alpine Climbing · Hiking
6 of the Best Challenging Hikes near Denver
5 routes · Hiking · Road Biking
Pair your Adventure and your Appetite in Denver
25 routes · Hiking
Denver's Best Front Range Hikes
8 routes · Hiking
Best Hikes in Golden, Colorado
5 routes · Hiking
Best Hikes in Morrison, Colorado
13 routes · Hiking
Best Nature Walks in Denver
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •
- •