Spruce Mountain Hikes Near Larkspur
These hikes along Spruce Mountain near Larkspur, Colorado offer both expansive vista of Colorado's rolling green hills and a unique view of Pikes Peak. Spruce Mountain is a tall butte just 45 minutes south of Denver. This hiking trail follows the outer edge of the mountain giving you a great 360 degree view of the area. Check out the entire hike profile below to get acquainted with Spruce Mountain before you hike it. You'll find links to trail maps, driving directions, and all the details you'll need to strike out on this Colorado trail.
Trail Snapshot: Spruce Mountain Hikes Near Larkspur
| Hike Distance | 1.5 & 4 mile Loop |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 1 hr 30 min or 4 hrs |
| Trail Type | Out & Back and Loop |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Spruce Mountain Hikes Near Larkspur |
| Denver Drive Time | 50 min |
| Driving Directions to Spruce Mountain Hikes Near Larkspur | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Larkspur, Colorado |
| Beauty | Views of Pike's Peak, Views of Greenland hills and buttes, Front Range views, rock formations, views of Eagle Mountain to the north |
| Activities | Picnic table, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking trails |
| Video | Click For Video |
Spruce Mountain offers breathtaking views of Pikes Peak, Eagle Mountain, and the rolling hills of Greenland and Larkspur. Most trails close to Denver are pretty exposed to the sun, so we were pleasantly surprised with how much shade the trees provided along the trails. Still, bring sunscreen because the South side of Spruce Mountain is a bit more exposed.
We rated this as medium in difficulty because of the first segment, which climbs about 400' in the space of about a quarter mile. After that that trail is relatively level. So, we'd put this on the easy side of medium. Because of that, this makes a great family hike close to Denver. But we'd highly recommend getting on the trail by 9am on the weekends (see the tips below).
Two Options for the Spruce Mountain Hike:
1 - 1.5+ Mile Hike to the Greenland Overlook - (out and back) Take a left where the trail forks and head up to the overlook (about 3/4 mile). This is a great first option if you have children with you. The views of Pikes Peak may be the best in Douglas County, and you can see how the family is doing and decide whether or not you want to continue on the loop hike.
2 - 4+ Mile Spruce Mountain Loop Trail - Continue west on the trail making a loop around the top of Spruce Mountain. You'll encounter fantastic views of Eagle Mountain, and the Windy Point overlook. Just a quick note that the service road may look like a shortcut back to the trailhead, but it's not. It is an option though if you would like to hike the open meadows between Eagle and Spruce mountains.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Spruce Mountain Hikes Near Larkspur :
- Speed Trap? We haven't seen the lurking cop car, but their are all the makings of a good old speed trap in Larkspur. So, take it easy. Our guess is that when the Renaissance festival is in full swing that traffic will really back up. The first reason to go early, and to probably allow more than 45 minutes for the drive.
- The Spruce Mountain Trailhead Parking Fills Fast: There is a lot of parking, but the lot was full by 11am on a Saturday. Second reason to go early.
- Great For Fido: There were more dogs on this trail than we've seen on any other, probably because most of the hike is pretty level and shaded. However, it makes for a bit of a traffic jam at times. Third reason to go early.
- Great Hike For Visiting Friends and Family: This hike has a lot of bang for the buck, and once you are up the first mile it's smooth sailing. It would be a great place to take out of towners who may be looking for a less demanding hike.
- Trail Map for Spruce Mountain Open Space: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Charito’s House
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions
Mt. Evans Summit Hike
Mount Evans is one of Colorado's Front Range Fourteeners, and like Pikes Peak, Mt. Evans has a road that takes you to a trail just a few hundred feet shy of the summit where you are likely to see both Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goats. The key to exploring Mount Evans is knowing the stops along the way. View our full trail profile for a suggested itinerary. Explore the full trail profile below for all the details: hiking trails, trail map, and detailed directions to the trailhead.
Trail Snapshot: Mt. Evans Summit Hike
| Hike Distance | 1/4 mile |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy (but consider altitude) |
| Duration | Approx. 15-20 min |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Seasons | Open early summer through Fall, Check Sites for Closure: #1 - #2 |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash; Not Recommended bc will disturb wildlife |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Mt. Evans Summit Hike |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr 40 min |
| Driving Directions to Mt. Evans Summit Hike | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Idaho Springs, Colorado |
| Beauty | Lakes, mountain peak views, high country tundra, wildlife: mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, & pika |
| Activities | Picnics, hiking, viewing wildlife |
| Fee Required | See Fee Schedule Link |
What it lacks in challenge Mt. Evans makes up in breathtaking panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and opportunities to view wildlife up close. It isn't much of a hike, because you can summit this 14,265 foot peak in just a few minutes. Yet your trip to Mount Evans can include several stops at high mountains lakes, to view wildflowers, and to take in the expansive scenery (See our itinerary below). This is one of the best attractions near Denver for visiting friends and family, especially if you don't have the luxury or equipment to take them into the Colorado backcountry. The views are stunning and there is a good chance that you'll encounter wildlife that would usually require hours of hiking to see. Still, you are at fourteen thousand feet, so be aware of the effects of altitude, drink plenty of water, and keep an eye on the weather.
Here is our suggested Mt. Evans Adventure Itinerary
- Take The I-70 Route for a shorter Drive: Click for Directions
- Take the a bit more scenic route: Click for Directions
- First Stop, Echo Lake - We like to arrive here early in the morning when the water is like glass and before other visitors arrive. Check out our full profile on Echo Lake
- Second Stop, Mt. Goliath - After passing through the toll booth, you'll begin a drive up the winding Mt. Evans Highway. After a few miles you'll encounter a nature center Dos Chappell Nature Center at Mt. Goliath. Stop here for a short wildflower hike and to take in the views. Click for Google Map
- Third Stop, Summit Lake- Grey cliff bands drop to the base of Summit Lake. It's breathtaking. Keep your eyes out for Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goats as well. Click Here for Google Map
- Finally, the Summit of Mt. Evans.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Mt. Evans Summit Hike :
- A Better Itinerary? Because weather comes in during the early afternoon, we suggest that you start early, make a short stop at Echo Lake, then drive straight to the summit. On your way down, stop at Summit lake, then make your last stop at the nature center at Mt. Goliath.
- Do consider altitude. We avoid bringing friends who are not in good health. Be sure to have your guests drink plenty of water, and make sure they have had a day or two to get used to the altitude in the mile-high city.
- The Weather link below is for Idaho Springs. Weather at the altitude of Echo Lake may be very different, and Weather at the summit will definitely be different. Check this National Weather Service Link for more accurate forecasts.
- Looking for a more challenging Hike? Try the Chicago Lakes Hike. The trail begins at the Echo Lake Parking Lot.
- Trail Map for Mount Evans Wilderness: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Echo Lake Lodge
Weather
Map & Driving Directions for Mount Evans
Click for Driving Directions
Evergreen Lake Trail
This Colorado hike (more of a stroll) is a perfect way to spend a Saturday morning. You can rent canoes and sailboats from the nature center and warming house. In the winter, the Evergreen Lake transforms into an ice skating wonderland. Explore this hike profile for all the details.
Trail Snapshot: Evergreen Lake Trail
| Hike Distance | 1.3 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 45 min Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 40 min |
| Driving Directions to Evergreen Lake Trail | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Evergreen, Colorado |
| Beauty | Lake, sunsets, wetlands, wildlife: elk & migratory birds |
| Activities | Picnic area, hiking trails, boating, fishing, ice skating |
| Handicap Accessible | Portions of this Trail are Handicap Accessible |
The Hike: Evergreen Lake Trail:
Evergreen Lake Trail is a 1.3 mile loop in the quaint mountain town of Evergreen, Colorado. If you have a young family like us, and are looking for an easy hike near Denver, this is a great choice.
From the Evergreen Lake house, the trail winds along a boardwalk, through a wetlands area, then towards town. If you are going this way (clockwise) around the lake, be sure to take the high path when you come to where the trail splits. The lower path is more of a fishing trail that soon becomes difficult to navigate. You can take the high path into town or over the dam and to the backside of the lake.
Along the back side of Evergreen Lake stands the old Warming House and Nature Center, operated by the Evergreen Audubon Society. Be sure to check their site for their seasonal hours. At the boathouse, the Evergreen Park & Recreation District operates boat rental and concessions. Their hours are seasonal as well. You can visit Evergreen Parks & Rec. boating page for rental info and hours. In the Winter, the lake transforms into an ice skating wonderland that rivals New York's Rockefeller Square. Skate rental and admission fees can be found on the Hockey and Skating page on the Evergreen Parks District Site.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Evergreen Lake Trail :
- TIP: Like we mentioned above, take the high path along the road when walking clockwise around the lake.
- TIP: Make it a day. There are several hikes near Evergreen to enjoy. As well, the lake is very accessible from town, so you can walk in, enjoy lunch or coffee, then hike back out.
- TIP: Listen for Elk in the Fall: On our most recent trip to Evergreen Lake, a bull elk was bugling. So, if you just don't have time to make it up to Estes Park, this is a great backup.
- Trail Map for Evergreen Lake Trail: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Beau Jo’s Pizza
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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Crown Hill Lake Trails
Jefferson County seems to turn to gold about every park they touch here in Colorado. Crown Hill Lake Park is a prime example. It's an oasis in the midst of the busy city of Denver. The park has beautiful views of the Front Range mountains, including the Flatirons down in Boulder.
Crown Hill Lake Park has three miles of paved trails and .7 of them are considered ADA accessible, all in the heart of Denver. On the northwest side of the park, you'll find a wildlife sanctuary for migratory birds. Explore the full trail profile below for all the details: hiking trails, trail map, and detailed directions to the trailhead.
Trail Snapshot: Crown Hill Lake Trails
| Hike Distance | 1.2 miles+ |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 45mins+ |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash in Most Areas |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Crown Hill Lake Trails |
| Denver Drive Time | 17 min |
| Driving Directions to Crown Hill Lake Trails | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Lakewood, Colorado |
| Beauty | Lake, wildlife sanctuary, Front Range views, wildlife: ducks, geese |
| Activities | Horseback riding, cycling, fishing, hiking, picnic areas |
Hikes at Crown Hill Park:
- Loop Trail - 1.2miles - goes around the lakeside
- Perimeter Trail - 2 miles - goes around the edge of the park
- Nature Preserve Trail / Wildlife Sanctuary Trail - .7 mile - Hiker Only and ADA accessible trail
- Link to the Park's Map
Tips & Resources for Hiking Crown Hill Lake Trails :
- TIP: It's a busy park, so try earlier and later in the day.
- TIP: The wildlife preserve is hiker only. No dogs in this area.
- TIP: There is a lot of multi-use traffic on the trails, so be alert and yield when appropriate.
- Trail Map for Crown Hill Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Danny's Carnation Restaurant
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Kasey Cline for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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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.
Castle Rock Trail
Rock Park in Castle Rock, Colorado is the trailhead for a 1.4 mile loop within a loop hike that climbs to the base of the town's famous Castle Rock. Click here for the Castle Rock trail map. Explore Dayhikes Near Denver for more hikes in Colorado with impressive rock formations.
Trail Snapshot: Castle Rock Trail
| Hike Distance | 1.4 Miles+Spurs |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate (can be difficult over rocks) |
| Duration | Approx. 1 hr+ |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Starting Elevation | 6220' |
| Elevation Gain | Approx. +370' |
| Seasons | All |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Castle Rock Trail |
| Denver Drive Time | 35 min |
| Driving Directions to Castle Rock Trail | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Castle Rock, Colorado |
| Beauty | Historical monument, rock formations, Front Range views, wildlife: rock squirrels and cliff swallows |
| Activities | Hiking trails, picnic areas, no bikes or horses are allowed |
Tips & Resources for Hiking Castle Rock Trail :
- TIP: There is a panoramic view of Castle Rock at the top. Pike's Peak can be seen to the southwest, and Long's Peak to the northwest.
- TIP: A wide, flat path encircles the rock with a picnic area. Tables are available.
- Trail Map for Castle Rock Trail: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Crowfoot Valley Coffee
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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Glendale Farm Trail - Douglas County Open Space
Glendale Farm is a short hiking trail near Littleton, Colorado, that offers a seventeen-acre off-leash dog park. This makes for a great after-work trail run or a leisurely hike when the sun is setting over the mountains and the day is cooling down. Glendale Farm Open space is situated on a prairie plateau between Lone Tree and Castle Pines, Colorado. From the high point on the trail you'll gain views of Pikes Peak in the south, Devil's head in the west, and Rocky Mountain's Longs Peak in the North. It's just a 1.6 mile loop trail, so it makes for a great run or hike. There's not much shade on this trail, so bring sunscreen--or better yet, hit the trail as the sunsets.
Trail Snapshot: Glendale Farm Trail - Douglas County Open Space
| Hike Distance | 1.6 mile |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 45 min |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All Year |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Glendale Farm Trail - Douglas County Open Space |
| Denver Drive Time | 35 min |
| Driving Directions to Glendale Farm Trail - Douglas County Open Space | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Littleton, Colorado |
| Beauty | Grassland, Front Range views, Cherry Creek, wildlife: pronghorn antelope, rattlesnakes, prairie dogs, deer, rabbits, scrub jays, & spotted towhees |
| Activities | Picnic areas, horseback riding, mountain biking, adjacent dog park |
This is another one of those great hikes with your Dog near Denver. Leashes are required on the trail, but after doing the loop, you can let your dog loose in the adjacent 17 acre off-leash dog park. Greenland Open Space Trail has a similar off-leash dog park of 17 acres.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Glendale Farm Trail - Douglas County Open Space :
- An off-leash dog area: Located southwest of the main trailhead is a 17-acre parcel designated park that is fenced-in, and the only area where dogs are allowed off-leash.
- Watch your step: Prickly pear cacti grow along the trail and there are rattlesnakes present in the area.
- Trail Map for Glendale Farm Open Space: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Crowfoot Valley Coffee
- Rules: For the most up-to-date rules and info in Douglas County dog parks, see this brochure.
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions
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.
The Canyon Rim Trail also offers an audio tour and is a great way for children to learn more about the plains habitat that covers much of Colorado. Explore this full trail profile for driving directions, trail map, and all the details and tips you'll need to plan your trip to this Colorado State Park.
Trail Snapshot: Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon
| Hike Distance | 1.2 mi (2.4 mi RT) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 1 hr or less |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Seasons | All |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash in Most Areas, But Not on the East Canyon Trail |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon |
| Denver Drive Time | 50 min |
| Driving Directions to Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Castle Rock, Colorado |
| Beauty | Interesting geology, canyon views, interpretive trail, wildflowers, birdwatching |
| Activities | Guided audio nature tour, hiking, picnic areas, visitors center |
| Fee Required | Visit Colorado State Parks Site |
One of the best handicap accessible trails near Denver, the Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park is a 1.2 mile interpretive trail. It runs along the western edge of the top of the canyon and weaves through ponderosa pine and a wonderful variety of wildflowers. The entire trail is a concrete walkway, making the area very accessible to wheelchairs. The trail ends at the Bridge Canyon overlook. Don't miss the view, it's wonderful.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Canyon View Nature Trail at Castlewood Canyon
- TIP: Pick up a brochure so that you can find the various access points for the trail and can take advantage of the side trails.
- Audio Tour: Begin at the visitor's center where you can pick up an audio tour player which guides you through the 5 different ecosystems that are found in Castlewood Canyon.
- Wildflowers: Late June and Early July are the best times to view the wildflowers in Castlewood Canyon.
- Bring Sunscren: Hikes in Castlewood Canyon can be quite exposed to the sun, so bring the sunscreen.
- TIP: 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: Trail Map Link
- Additional Maps: 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
Lakes Loop Trail at Rocky Mountain Arsenal
An arsenal turned into a Wildlife Refuge. What a great idea! The refuge boasts over 15,000 acres and over 300 species of wildlife. It also hosts three lakes and Denver lake hikes. The Lakes Loop Trail at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge is a 1.7 mile loop that winds along the shores of two lakes in the park, Lake Mary and Lake Ladora. Explore the full trail profile for all the details: hiking trails, trail map, and detailed directions to the trailhead.
Trail Snapshot: Lakes Loop Trail at Rocky Mountain Arsenal
| Hike Distance | 1.8 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 1hr+ Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All |
| Dogs | Prohibited in the Refuge |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 30 min |
| Driving Directions to Lakes Loop Trail at Rocky Mountain Arsenal | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Commerce City, Colorado |
| Beauty | Grassland, Front Range views, lakes wildlife: wild bison, deer, coyotes, bald eagles and burrowing owls |
| Activities | Hiking trails, wildlife viewing, seasonal fishing |
How to Hike the Loop: Check in and begin your hike at the visitors center. Follow the Lake Mary Trail along the northwest of the lake until it merges with the the Prairie Trail. Follow the Prairie Trail to the south until it merges with the Ladora Trail which will take you back to the visitors center and along the shore of Lake Ladora.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Lakes Loop Trail at Rocky Mountain Arsenal :
- TIP: Hiking and site seeing are open 7 days a week. However, the visitors center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and pets are prohibited (makes sense - it's a wildlife refuge).
- TIP: Trolley Tours are available on the weekends. Check out this tours link or call 303/289-0250.
- Trail Map for Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Butcher Block Cafe
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Ray Fetherman for sharing such a beautiful photograph of this hike.
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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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