Chicago Lakes Hike Near Mt. Evans
Want to take in some of Colorado's breathtaking scenery and put some miles under your hiking boots? The Chicago Lakes hike begins at Echo Lake. You'll pass three more mountain lakes as you punch up into the high country of Colorado's Mt. Evan's Wilderness. Explore the full trail profile below for the Chicago Lakes which includes driving directions, map, and tips.
Trail Snapshot: Chicago Lakes Hike Near Idaho Springs, Colorado
| Hike Distance | 8.4 to approx 10 miles RT |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Duration | Approx 5-7hrs |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Elevation Gain | Approx +1200′ |
| Seasons | Summer to Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Chicago Lakes |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr |
| Driving Directions to Chicago Lakes Trail | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Idaho Springs, Colorado |
| Beauty | Lakes, Mountain Peak Views, Creek, High Country, Cliffs, Wildflowers, & Wildlife: Mountain Goats, Bighorn Sheep, Elk |
| Activities | Hiking, wildlife viewing |
| Weather for Mt. Evans | Click Here |
Looking for amazing views and some high mountain lakes near Denver? This challenging hike takes you to two high mountain lakes with amazing views of the Mt. Evans Wilderness area. Both lakes can be fished, as well as the lower Idaho Springs Reservoir that you pass on your way. We are not into giving long trail descriptions on Dayhikes Near Denver, but we'd suggest you read the basic one below and check out the trail description and pdf Chicago Lakes map link in the trail profile below.
The Chicago Lakes Trailhead and Trail: Park at the Echo Lake lot, where you'll find the sign for Chicago Lakes Trail 52 on the west side of the lake. That will lead you to another sign about .5 mile later directing you to the trail. The trail will turn into Idaho Springs Reservoir Road, then will return to a normal trail. It climbs through a burn area, the result of a fire in the 1970s, then continues to climb to Lower Chicago lake. The trail has a lot of character: steep areas, massive cliff walls, and expansive meadows. The trail continues, faint at times, up a steeper section to Upper Chicago Lake.
As you'll see in the comments on this hike, people come back with different trail lengths. So, to clear this up: Beginning at Echo Lake, the trail is 4.24 miles one-way to the lake. However, most people don't want to stop there, many continue on to the upper lake, which adds and additional .6 mile to the trail. Then, some people opt to hike around the lake, which adds to the hike as well. You may want to start early, especially in the Summer months so that you have the time to explore and to avoid our famous, afternoon Colorado thunderstorms.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Chicago Lakes Near Mt. Evans, Colorado :
- TIP: Don't Miss: 1 - The Upper Lake & 2 - The Cascade between the two lakes
- TIP: Check the Weather before heading up. Use the following link to National Weather Service page for Mt. Evans
- TIP: Look Over trail descriptions from Deb Stanley & David Day before heading out.
- Trail Map for Chicago Lakes Near Mt. Evans: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Finish your hike by enjoying a slice of Barbara Day's famous pie at Echo Lake Lodge
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Shea Oliver for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions
Maxwell Falls Near Evergreen, Colorado
The Maxwell Falls hike is our most popular hike near Denver. Why? Because it's a perfect Colorado family hike with a variety of terrain, and it takes you to one of the closest waterfalls to Denver. Below, you'll find three different hike options: a one-mile hike, a three-mile loop, and a four-mile trek--all taking you to Maxwell Falls.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
#1: While this is a moderate hike, a significant number of novice and unprepared hikers have found themselves in challenging circumstances while hiking these trails: dehydration, heat exhaustion, altitude sickness, etc., and have had to call for emergency and rescue services. Evergreen Fire and Rescue urges novice and out-of-town hikers to seriously consider your fitness level before attempting the hike, to wear shoes that will help you navigate loose gravel, and to pack water for your trip.
#2: In the last few years, Maxwell Falls has become one of the most popular destination hikes near Denver, and it's having a negative impact. In other words, Maxwell Falls is being loved to death. Please read through the Help Care for Maxwell Falls segment for basic trail etiquette that will help protect this beautiful place.
Trail Snapshot: Maxwell Falls Hike
| Hike Distance | 1.6 to 4 Miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | 45 min to 2 hr 30 min+ |
| Trail Type | Out & Back and Loop |
| Seasons | Summer through Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash |
| Denver Drive Time | 50 min |
| Directions | Lower Parking Area - Upper Parking Area |
| Town Nearest Hike | Conifer, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfall, overlooks, creek, woodlands |
| Activities | Picnicking, hiking trails |
When we were moving to Denver, we were looking for a great house and for great hikes, and our favorite hikes end with a waterfall. Waterfalls close to Denver, Colorado don't have a lot of wow-factor, but they make great for great destination hikes. There are 3 ways to hike to Maxwell falls. Our favorite is the Cliff Trail loop because it gives you the falls a reward at the end. The falls are more of a series cascades, but are worth the hike. If you want to explore more waterfalls near Denver, check out our Waterfall Hikes Near Denver page.
Hike Options for Maxwell Falls Trails.
1. The Short Version:
Less than 1 mile round trip - Begin at the Upper Trailhead and follow the signs to the falls. It's just under half a mile, one way.
2. The Cliff Trail Loop:
3 Miles - Start at the upper trailhead lot. The trail will split a couple times and you'll want to bear left, following the signs that point you down the Cliff Trail. You'll climb a bit to a rock promontory that gives you beautiful views of the valley below. You will begin a descent to the creek bed, then the trail will turn and head upstream. Follow it until you hear the falls. After the falls, follow the trail back up to the upper lot.
3. Lower Maxwell Falls Hike
- 4 Miles Round Trip - Begin at the lower parking area and hike up the valley and along Maxwell Creek for about 2 miles. About 1.7 miles along the trail, you'll cross to the other side of the creek. Shortly after that, you'll hear the falls. Return the same way you came.
We've had some inquiries about whether or not there is camping at Maxwell Falls. Because this area gets so much traffic, we recommend camping elsewhere. It is permissible to camp on USFS land, but it's important to take into consideration our impact, and the Maxwell Falls area is getting loved to death. I'd recommend checking out Reserve America for other camping ideas.
So, strap on your hiking boots, grab a picnic lunch and your trekking poles, then hit the trail to Maxwell Falls.
Help Care for Maxwell Falls Area
Maxwell Falls and the surrounding trails get an incredible amount of traffic, and in recent years, hikers have really harmed the area. So, during your visit (and as always), follow Leave No Trace principles and the following:
- Pick up trash on your hike (especially your own). There is no trash service at this trailhead.
- Pack out dog droppings
- Keep Dogs on a Leash
- No fires or digging fire-pits. Fires pose an extreme danger to nearby residents.
- If parking is full, come back later, or find a different hike. Roadside parking is causing erosion and safety hazards.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Maxwell Falls:
- TIP: This trail gets a ton of use, so make an effort to pick up a few pieces of trash while you are making your trek to the falls.
- TIP: Be on alert for the signage. It's easy to miss, and sometimes in disrepair. I'd recommend reading through the comments section below for details.
- After the Hike: Beaujos Pizza in Evergreen
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions for Upper Lot
Looking for more waterfalls near Denver? Explore our more than 50 Colorado Waterfall Hikes, our favorite Waterfall Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, or 7 Waterfalls within One Hour of Denver.
Waterfall Hike at Castlewood Canyon
This may be the most accessible waterfall near Denver. If you hit the right parking lot, it's a 10 minute hike.So, grab a park brochure and find the Northernmost trailhead for the Creek Bottom Trail (Homestead Trailhead). This will add close to 1 mile to your hike. Then you can loop back via the Cherry Creek Trail for a total of about 2 miles.
Trail Snapshot: Waterfall Hike at Castlewood Canyon
| Hike Distance | 1/4 mile Round Trip (see trail options below) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 20 min |
| Trail Type | Out & Back and Loop |
| Seasons | All Season |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash in Most Areas |
| Denver Drive Time | 50 min |
| Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Beauty | Cherry Creek, waterfall, interesting geology, canyon views, ruins |
| Activities | Rock climbing, hiking, picnic areas, birdwatching, wildlife viewing |
| Fee Required | Visit Colorado State Parks Site |
Tips & Resources for Hiking to the Castlewood Canyon Waterfall
- Easy to Miss: The West Side entrance can be hard to find. Usually, Colorado state parks have brown signs indicating the park roads. The west side doesn't. But the name of the road you're looking for is "Castlewood Canyon" - easy to remember.
- Shortest Access: The shortest way to access the falls is by parking at the Waterfall Parking Lot, then taking the Waterfall Spur to the Creek Bottom Trail. Head South, and you'll hear the waterfall in just a few moments.
- Exposed: Hikes in Castlewood Canyon can be quite exposed to the sun, so bring the sunscreen
- Poison Ivy: We've been surprised how poison ivy flourishes in this park, often along the edge of the trail. Know how to identify it, so that you can avoid it. But don't let that deter you from the park. You just need to keep an eye out. See our post on how to identify and treat poison ivy.
- Trail Map for Castlewood Canyon State Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Crowfoot Valley Coffee
Weather
Click for Driving Directions
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 of your shoes down on this one. Jefferson County even has plans to expand the trail several miles into Clear Creek Canyon. Explore the full trail profile for all the details: hiking trails, trail map, and detailed directions to the trailhead.
Trail Snapshot:Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden
| Hike Distance | 1.8 Miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy (super easy) |
| Duration | 1 hr |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Seasons | All Season |
| Denver Drive Time | 30 min |
| Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Golden, Colorado |
| Beauty | Clear Creek, Cliff Swallows, Tree lined river |
| Activities | Parks, Shops, Kayaking, People Watching, Rollerblading, and Biking |
| Handicap Accessible | This Trail is Handicap Accessible |
When you have small children, some mornings can be harder than others to get through the foothills and into the mountains. This trail is made for those mornings. We like to park downtown, grab coffee at the Windy Saddle, then stroll down the trail. A local training school is often seen near the Washington Street Bridge doing water rescue training. It's highly entertaining and a great opportunity. Visiting family and friends will find this trail accessible, easy, and refreshing.
- Bring a Picnic and throw down a blanket at one of the several parks along the way (see map)
- You can start outside of town at the 6th Ave parking area and you have two options: Hike into town, or hike west in Clear Creek Canyon for .7 miles of the Grant Terry Trail
- Don't miss the cliff swallows that have built their nests along the 6th Ave. bridge.
- The Windy Saddle Cafe, on Washington Street offers a kids' playroom and their coffee is fantastic.
Tips & Resources for Hiking the Clear Creek Trail:
City of Golden Trail Map Link
City of Golden Open Space Map Link
Colorado Road Conditions
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions
Panorama Point Trail in Corwina Park
If you are fond of panoramic views, then the Panorama Point Trail in Corwina Park is what you may be looking for. At the top of this trail you will find a beautiful view that looks out to the mountains and the plains. This medium-difficulty hike also lets you hike along a babbling brook. Check out our snapshot below for a trail map, driving directions to the trailhead and more details.
Trail Snapshot: Panorama Point Trail in Corwina Park
| Hike Distance | 2.4 miles Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 1 hr Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 6715′ |
| Elevation Gain | Approx +690′ |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Panorama Point Trail in Corwina Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 40 min |
| Driving Directions to Panorama Point Trail in Corwina Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Evergreen, Colorado |
| Beauty | Mountain peak views, Bear Creek |
| Activities | Picnic area, fishing, hiking |
Corwina Park has two different trailheads, an east parking lot and a west lot (I don't believe they are named this way--it's just the geographic location). Hiking from the west lot (second lot you come to driving from Morrison/Denver), provides the shortest hiking route. The trail here follows a seasonal brook; its sounds and the shade from the trees make this a pleasant approach to Panorama Point.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Panorama Point Trail in Corwina Park:
- TIP: If you hike during winter, wearing a traction device like YakTrax is ideal, as well as using trekking poles.
- Trail Map for Corwina Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Beau Jo’s Pizza
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Ben Deutsch for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions
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 big suggestion is to keep your kiddos close to you on the busier trail segments as this is also a mountain biking mecca. Explore the details below in our profile of this Jefferson County, Colorado park.
Trail Snapshot: Bear Creek Trail at Lair O' the Bear
| Hike Distance | 1.6 Miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | 1 hr 15 min |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Seasons | All Season |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 30 min |
| Driving Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Denver, Colorado |
| Beauty | Bear Creek, Meadows, Wildlife: Beaver, American Dippers aka Water Ouzel |
| Activities | Hiking, Birdwatching, Mountain Biking, Fly Fishing, Picnics |
Lair O'the Bear is fantastic for families because this hike has lot of shade, a mostly level path, the sounds and sights of water, and a few great areas for picnics in this Colorado park. On top of all of that, it's one of the most accessible Denver trails just out of town in the foothills. Within Lair O the Bear park, the Bear Creek Trail follows the creek for 1.6 miles of trail. Approximately 1 mile of the trail runs West from the parking area, and .6 of a mile to the East. But that is just within the park boundaries; the actual trail continues following the creek in both directions, so you can explore even more of this beautiful canyon and riparian landscape. You can also fish Bear Creek in Lair O the Bear. I've not had any luck yet, so I'd appreciate any tips in the comment section below.
Tips & Resources for Hiking at Lair o' the Bear :
- Bikes: There are some hiker only trail segments, but most are open to mountain bikes - and there are A LOT of them, especially on the weekends. So, just hike aware and let your kids know that bikes may be zipping by.
- Picnic: Take a picnic lunch or dinner. There are some great picnic areas along the river at Lair o' the Bear.
- Birding: This is a great place to teach your kids (or yourself) some tree and bird identification. The riparian ecosystem is pretty diverse at Lair o' the Bear.
- Lair o’ the Bear Park Trail Map: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Ice Cream @ The Blue Cow
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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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 on this hike, explore the trail profile which includes trail map, driving directions, and helpful tips and resources to enjoy this Colorado hike in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.
Trail Snapshot:Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
| Hike Distance | 3.6 Miles Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 2-3hr Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Elevation Gain | Approx. +605' |
| Seasons | All Year |
| Dogs | Not Allowed in RMNP |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr 45 min |
| Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Estes Park, Colorado |
| Beauty | Lakes, Cascade Waterfalls, Wildlife: Abert's Squirrel, Birds, Bears, Elk |
| Activities | Hiking, Snowshoeing, Fishing |
| Fee | Park Pass Required |
A Colorado Hike with a lot of bang for the buck. What we mean is that there is a lot to see on this 1.8 miles stretch of trail. Starting at Bear Lake, you'll take in a total of four Colorado lakes, and pass a small waterfall near the top of the trail. If you are looking for a handicap accessible hike, the trail around Bear Lake Loop hike may be the most beautiful, handicap accessible trail in Colorado. In the winter, the hike up to Emerald makes for a perfect snowshoe hike.
At Nymph Lake on the way up to Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake Trail Directions & Trailhead Information
The trail to Emerald Lake begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead (driving directions). In the event that parking at Bear Lake is full, you'll then need to park at the Park & Ride near the Bierstadt Trailhead and take the bus into the trailhead. This service runs 7am to 7PM and more information on the RMNP shuttle bus routes can be found at this link. The trail to Emerald Lake is located on your way to Bear Lake, off to the left, just before reaching the shore viewing area of Bear Lake.
For conditions at Emerald Lake, see the Rocky Mountain National Park Trail Conditions page.
List and Links of Destinations From Bear Lake to Emerald Lake
Tips & Resources for Hiking to Emerald Lake :
- Get to the Bear Lake trailhead early: We say this for almost every hike near Denver, but the Bear Lake Parking area is probably the busiest in the park. If you can't get there early, just take the shuttle from the lower parking area.
- The Wildlife: We have seen a beautiful black bear in this area on one occasion. It just saw us and ambled away. As with any hike where there are a lot of wildlife, keep small children within sight at all times. On your way out, be sure to stop around Moraine Park and watch the Elk.
- Snowshoeing to Emerald Lake In the winter, this is a Colorado wonderland and a very accessible trail to snowshoe. You can rent snowshoes for a great price at The Colorado Mountain Shop in Estes Park.
- PhotoS: We would like to express our gratitude to Tim Lumley and Daniel for sharing their photos of Emerald Lake in RMNP.
- Trail Map for Bear Lake Corridor: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Kind Coffee
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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 information on how to get to the park, trail map links, and links to several hiking options in Castlewood Canyon.
Trail Snapshot: Castlewood Canyon State Park Trails
| Hike Distance | Less than 1/4 mile to 4 Miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 15 Minutes to 2.5 hours |
| Trail Type | Out and Back and Loop |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash but not on East Canyon Trail |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Castlewood Canyon State Park Trails |
| Denver Drive Time | 50 min |
| Driving Directions to Castlewood Canyon State Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Elizabeth, Colorado |
| Beauty | Meadows, creek, waterfall, interesting geology, canyon views, ruins |
| Activities | Rock climbing, hiking, picnic areas, visitors center |
| Fee Required | Visit Colorado State Parks Site |
Not just a canyon, this Colorado State Park features ruins, a waterfall, and unusual geological formations. The park is riddled with 15 trails, ranging from 1/4 mile to 4 miles, so you have a lot of options. The Canyon View Nature Trail (1.2 miles) is a great example of a handicap accessible trail in Colorado. The East Parking (see map below) offers the most hiking options, while the West Parking area leads to shorter hikes to the Castlewood Canyon climbing areas and the longest (4 mile) East Canyon Trail.
Some Trails In Castlewood Canyon
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Waterfall Hike at Castlewood Canyon State Park
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Cliff & Climbers Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park
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Homestead Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park
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Cave Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park
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Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park
- This may be the most accessible waterfall near Denver. A short .17 mile hike from the trailhead. Click on the red link above to go to the waterfall hike trail profile page.
- A short but more demanding hike in Castlewood Canyon where you can explore the crags along the cliffs of the park.
- an easy to medium hike at the west park entrance. Check out the hiking profile to see how to turn this .7 mile trail into a 2 or 4 mile loop hike.
- only a quarter mile round trip up to a small cave in the west side of Castlewood Canyon State park.
- 2.4 mile round trip hike with interpretive signs that takes you along the rim of Castlewood Canyon. One of the best handicap accessible trails near Denver.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Castlewood Canyon State Park Trails:
- TIP: Castlewood Canyon offers some shade, but you are often in the sun. So, bring your sunscreen and apply it liberally.
- TIP: We would also suggest an early morning or sunset hike as these are the best times to observe wildlife.
- TIP: Though it's not the largest of Colorado waterfalls, you'll still hear it before you see it. The waterfall is accessed from Creek Bottom Trail on the West Side of the park.
- TIP: Pets are allowed on a leash but there are some specific trail restrictions, so make sure to read the signs. Enjoy this wonderful hike in the grasslands of Douglas County, Colorado.
- Trail Map: Castlewood Canyon State Park Trails
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Crowfoot Valley Coffee
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions
O Fallon Park Trails
hese hiking trails near Evergreen, Colorado weave through the Bear Creek area in O'Fallon Park. It's a great place to launch into the Bear Creek Canyon area. Because there are a lot of options, be sure to download the trail map and look over the five different trail options listed below in the hike profile. Scroll down for the full O'Fallon Park Trails profile and to find driving directions, pdf map, and full trail details.
| Hike Distance | 1.3 to 7 miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 1 to 5 hrs |
| Trail Type | 3 Loop Trails and Out & Back |
| Seasons | All Year |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of O'Fallon Park Trails |
| Denver Drive Time | 35 min |
| Driving Directions to O'Fallon Park Trails | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Evergreen, Colorado |
| Beauty | Mountain peak views, Bear Creek & brooks, wildflowers, & butterflies |
| Activities | Picnic areas, horseback riding, mountain biking |
O'Fallon Park is part of a series of Jefferson County and Denver Mountain Parks that are connected by Bear Creek and the Bear Creek Trail. Quartz riddles the trails and butterflies alight on flowers along the five trails that weave through the park. The O'Fallon Park picnic area is right beside Bear Creek and plenty of shade provided by the Ponderosa Pines that cover it.
Fishing at O'Fallon Park may get you some rainbow and brown trout!
Trails at O'Fallon Park
1- Meadow View Loop (2.5 miles): We actually hiked this as an out-and-back from the lot up to the vista. Great views up there, but be ready for a steady gain in elevation. It's some work, but it's worth it.
2- Panorama Point - (1.3 miles out-and-back)
3-West Ridge Loop - (3 miles)
4- Picnic Loop (1.3 miles): Stays closer to the picnic areas and makes for a nice easy walk with the family before or after lunch.
5-Bear Creek Trail - This trail runs 7 miles from Pence Park parking lot to the Lair o' the Bear Park lot. Medium in difficulty and a mountain biking mecca.
Tips & Resources for Hiking O'Fallon Park Trails :
- TIP: This is another park that can fill quickly on the weekends, but it's mainly the picnic areas. It's not necessary to go early, but it's not a bad idea.
- TIP: Keep alert for mountain bikers, especially on the Bear Creek Trail. Most of the other trails are hiker only.
- TIP: Bring a picnic breakfast or lunch.
- O'Fallon Park Trail Map: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Beau Jo’s Pizza
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Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions