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 25+ Winter Hikes Near Denver Colorado

aaron johnson author of dayhikes near denver with daughter in backpack flyfishing on bear creek at Lair o the Bear Park near morrison colorado

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 ...
willow creek trail roxborough state park header

Willow Creek Trail at Roxborough State Park

Entering Roxborough State Park is like walking into another world. The red rock and wildlife--and if you are lucky--the low lying cloud cover, conspire to make for a great escape just south of Denver. The Willow Creek trail makes for a short hike in Roxborough is a perfect way to begin exploring the park. Scroll down to get all the ...
red rock formations with pine tree in foreground above fountain valley trail in roxborough state park near denver

Fountain Valley Trail at Roxborough State Park

The Fountain Valley trail in Colorado's Roxborough State Park is the Garden of the God's of Denver. It's more secluded than Red Rocks park, and features several trails that take you beyond the park boundaries and into the foothills. The Fountain Valley Trail is a perfect place to start because it features the best part of the park, it's towering ...
emerald green lake surrounded by mountains in rocky mountain national park emerald lake hike

Emerald Lake Hike Rocky Mountain National Park

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. For more information ...
wood bridge over creek in castlewood canyon state park hikes near denver

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, homestead ruins, a stream, caves and clefts, and a lot of fairly easy hikes. Below you'll find more ...
rock formation with pine trees at alderfer 3 sisters park in evergreen colorado

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. With over 15 miles of hiking trails, ...
young hiker standing on trail with red rock formations and foothills in background in south valley park hike near littleton colorado

South Valley Park Trails

The trails of South Valley Park are perfect for an after work hike or run in South Denver. The expansive valley near the neighborhood of Ken Caryl is enclosed on its eastern side by the exposed red rock formations of the hogback and the green foothills to the west. Views to the south are incredible, making South Valley Park especially ...
Loading...

Map of Best Winter Hikes Near Denver Colorado