Are you ready for the winter hiking near Denver? Much of Colorado is winter wonderland from November to April, that’s why we are the best skiing destination in the world–well, we think so. I think we are also the best winter hiking destination in the world. We have over 140 hikes on Dayhikes Near Denver, but not all are as easily hiked in the winter season, so we’ve identified about 20 different great winter hiking trails that are easier to access and great for families looking for winter hikes.
Our Criteria for Choosing The Best Winter Hiking Trails Near Denver
- These trails are generally easy to get to. Snow and weather can make the drive to the trailhead an adventure in and of itself, so I tried to identify hikes that were more accessible.
- Most of these hiking trails have areas where you are a bit more protected from the wind. I avoided hikes like the Flatirons Vista near Boulder because, while easy to access, you’re exposed to the wind the entire time.
- Beginners and families should be able to hike these together.
Hike Smart this Winter
An easy hike can turn into a difficult one when weather comes in so be sure to hike smart this winter.
- Always pack the 10 Essentials. If you need a packing list, then be sure to download our Free Hiking Guide to help you prepare and pack smart for your dayhikes.
- Before you head out on the trail, review our 10 Winter Hiking Tips to get you prepared for this season.
Explore Our 20+ Winter Wonderland Hikes Near Denver Colorado
Alberta Falls Hike at Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is full of waterfalls and this hike takes you to one of the most accessible waterfalls in the park. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular, short destination hikes in the park, and for good reason. If you only have time for one short hike on the East Side of RMNP, this is a ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Alderfer and Three Sisters Park
This park in Evergreen, Colorado is a family favorite of some of our good friends. They have two young daughters and love to hike Alderfer and Three Sisters. The park has so many trails that the network can get confusing, so download the Alderfer trail map or pick one up at the trailhead. Scroll down for more information on this ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Bear Creek Trail at Lair o’ the Bear Park
Lair o' the Bear is, in our family's opinion, the best family hike near Denver. First, the drive into the canyon on Bear Creek road is beautiful. Once at the park you'll find great hiking trail options, the cool water of bear creek, great parking, and some good picnic spots. There are open areas as well as shade. Our one ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Bear Lake Hike at Rocky Mountain National Park
From Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park (just 2 hours from Denver), you can launch out on dozens of hiking adventures, trails that range from less than a mile to full day treks back into Glacier Gorge or Andrews Creek. If you are visiting Colorado and looking for a high variety of trails or just a good place to ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Canyon Loop Trail – Betasso Preserve, Boulder
This hike at Betasso Preserve near Boulder, Colorado makes for a perfect evening escape to watch the sunset over the town below. You'll cross through meadows dotted with wildflowers then under stands of Ponderosa pine that eventually open up to views to east. Explore the hiking trail profiles and map link below for details ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon
Castlewood Canyon cuts a unique and green landscape into the plains near Denver. It's not the mountains, but it's worth the drive. Castlewood Canyon State Park has created this beautiful paved trail that follows the canyon rim ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Castlewood Canyon State Park Trails
Because Castlewood Canyon State Park is hidden in the plains--and not the mountains--near Denver, it's often an overlooked State park of Colorado. But, whether you're hiking or rock climbing it's a beautiful and geologically unusual place to explore. It boasts a waterfall, ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden
Want a hike to please everyone? The Clear Creek Trail in Golden, Colorado is it! It's got shade, the kids can bring their bikes, and you can finish your hike with a stroll around downtown. We might get some flack for calling this a hike, because it runs through the business district of Golden, CO.But you can wear the soles ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Colorado’s Best Winter Hikes Near Denver
Are you ready for the winter hiking near Denver? Much of Colorado is winter wonderland from November to April, that’s why we are the best skiing destination in the world–well, we think so. I think we are also the best winter hiking destination in the world. We have over 140 hikes on Dayhikes Near Denver, but not all are as ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
The hike to Dream Lake is one of the popular destination hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park--and for good reason. In the early morning hours, Dream Lake is a vision straight out of a fairy tale. This 2.2-mile, out-and-back hike begins at the Bear Lake trailhead, and passes ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Elk Meadow Park – South Loop
Elk Meadow Park is a great place to hike with your family, if you have little ones, or if you just want to talk with a friend as you hike and take in great views of Colorado. It is important to know that the adjacent off-leash dog park has been closed. Get all the info you need to hike Elk ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
Emerald Lake Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
The hike to Emerald Lake is one of the most accessible hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. If you are visiting RMNP, and have limited time to visit, the trail to Emerald Lake is an excellent option. You'll pass both Dream Lake and Nymph lake before you end your hike at Emerald Lake and it's stunning views of Hallet Peak ...
View Trail Info
View Trail Info
