Forgotten Valley Hike at Golden Gate State Park
Can you think of a more mysterious name for a hike? Colorado's Golden Gate State Park has many trails, and the Forgotten Valley is a great place to start discovering this gem that is tucked between Golden and Boulder, Colorado. Get all the details on hiking the Forgotten Valley by scrolling down to the hike snapshot and hiking tips below.
Trail Snapshot: Forgotten Valley Hike at Golden Gate State Park
| Hike Distance | 3 miles Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 2.5 hrs+ Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Golden Gate State Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 55 min |
| Driving Directions to Forgotten Valley Hike at Golden Gate State Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Golden, Colorado |
| Beauty | Pond, old homestead ruins, wildlife: mule deer, golden eagle, Abert's squirrel, Steller's jay |
| Activities | Hiking trails, fishing, backcountry camping, visitors center |
| Park Fee Required | Click For Info |
The Forgotten Valley in Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a step back in time.This day hike near Denver takes you 1.5 miles to an old homestead complete with front porch views of the small lake that sits in the bottom of the valley. From the Bridge Trailhead, take the Burro Trail for approximately 3/4 of a mile to where it intersects with the Mountain Lion Trail. Turn North (Left) on the Mountain Lion Trail, and follow that for about 3/4 of mile to Forgotten Valley and the Tallman Homestead. The pond in the valley is stocked by the division of wildlife. We want to thank Kenny Chaffin for his photo of the Tallman Homestead. You can view more of his Denver area photos here.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Forgotten Valley Hike at Golden Gate State Park :
- TIP: Pick up a Trail Map at the Golden Gate Canyon State Park Visitors Center.
- TIP: Parking at the Bridge Trailhead is very limited, so go early.
- TIP: There are some great options on this hike. Grab a Trails Illustrated Boulder/Golden Map and hike to the top of nearby Windy Peak or hike the entire Mountain Lion Trail Loop.
- Trail Map for Golden Gate Canyon State Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Windy Saddle Cafe
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Map & Driving Directions
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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.
Trail Snapshot: Canyon Loop Trail at Betasso Preserve
| Hike Distance | 3.3 Miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 1.5 hr |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All Season |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click Here for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 50 min |
| Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Boulder, Colorado |
| Beauty | Views of Boulder, Wildlife: Aberts Squirrel & Deer, Ponderosa Forest, Meadows |
| Activities | Picnic Area, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Hiking Trails |
Tips & Resources for Hiking the Canyon Loop at Betasso Preserve :
- Easier Approach: Make your hike at Betasso Preserve a bit easier by starting from the East Trailhead
- Mountain Bikers: Each month the direction of travel required for Mountain Bikers is switched. Check the sign at the trailhead. Additionally, biking is not allowed on Wed. & Sat.
- Hikers: Check the sign at the trailhead as well and try to hike the opposite direction of the bike traffic.
- Trail Map for Betasso Preserve: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Ozo Coffee in Boulder
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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
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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.
Arthur's Rock Trail in Lory State Park
The Arthurs Rock trail in Lory State Park near Fort Collins, Colorado ends with a beautiful panoramic views. You'll pass through meadows, forest, then end your hike with a scramble to the top of Arthur's Rock. Dogs are allowed on a leash, just be sure to bring plenty of water as there are not many places to access drinking water.
| Hike Distance | 3.4 miles RT |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 1 hr 15 min Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 5600′ |
| Elevation Gain | +1180′ |
| Seasons | Spring to Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Arthur’s Rock Trail in Lory State Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr 25 min |
| Driving Directions to Arthur’s Rock Trail in Lory State Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Fort Collins, Colorado |
| Beauty | Views of Horsetooth Lake, views of the Front Range, forests, and meadows, wildlife: elk, bobcat, and many bird species |
| Activities | Hiker only trail, but park offers picnic areas, horseback riding, mountain biking, canoeing, & kayaking |
Arthur's Rock History
The place got its name from Arthur Howard who was the one who, along with his brother, Charlie, sold this piece of land. For more information on the history of Arthur's Rock and Lory State Park, visit this page.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Arthur’s Rock Trail in Lory State Park :
- TIP: There is a visitor's center near the Lory State Park entrance.
- TIP: At the summit of Arthur's Rock, there is a beautiful view of Horsetooth Reservoir and the Front Range available.
- Trail Map for Lory State Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: The Colorado Room
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Luci Westphal for sharing a great photo of her hike to Arthur's Rock at Lory State Park. Check out her video from this hike.
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Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions to Lory State Park
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
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Map & 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
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Eldorado Canyon State Park Hikes
Eldorado Canyon State Park is a hiking and climbing Mecca tucked into the Front Range near Boulder and Denver, Colorado. In this hiking profile of Eldorado Canyon, we quickly give you the 4 main trails and some tips for your time in the canyon. Explore the full trail profile below to get all the details.
Trail Snapshot: Hiking In Eldorado Canyon
| Hike Distance | 4 Trails: .5 mile to 3.5 miles (one way) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 1-2.5 hrs |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Seasons | Spring, Summer, Fall |
| Dogs | Allowed on Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click Here for a Map of Eldorado Canyon State Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 45 min |
| Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Eldorado Springs, Colorado |
| Beauty | Canyon, Cascades, Cliff Swallows, Cliff-Top Views, Geologic Features |
| Activities | Picnic Areas, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, Fishing |
| Video | Click For Video |
| Fee | Link to Fees Page |
Eldorado Canyon is an oasis just about 45 minutes from Denver. Kids will love hiking over rocks along the streamside trail, peering into caves, and gazing up at the climbers on the towering canyon walls. The park features one of the best picnic areas in the state with shallow areas of boulder creek which quickly fill with kids. Close attention is needed in any situation involving water and children. South Boulder Creek can be swift, especially after rains and during the early melts. During these times, the canyon gushes and roars. The sounds are as great as the views.
Fishing at Eldorado Canyon State Park could potentially yield you fish that are eight inches to an average about eight inches to about twenty inches long. For a more detailed guide on fishing here, check out the one at Colorado Parks and Wildlife here.
There is no camping at Eldorado Canyon State Park, although there are nearby areas to do so.
4 Trail Options in Eldorado Canyon State Park
#1 - The Streamside Trail is the shortest (.5 mile one way) and follows close to the sides of the creek and canyon walls.
#2 - The Fowler Trail takes you .7 miles (one way) and provides great views of the canyon.
#3 - The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is more difficult, traveling 1.4 miles up to the ruins of the Crags Hotel that burned to in 1912. Another trail goes from the hotel another .8 mile loop and features a view of Colorado's continental divide.
#4 - The Eldorado Canyon Trail is the longest, 3.5 miles (one way), eventually intersecting with the Walker Ranch Loop Trail.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Eldorado State Park:
- Go On a Weekday: Eldorado Canyon is a climbing mecca and can reach capacity on the weekends.
- Picnic: There is a great picnic area at the back of Eldorado Canyon, so pack a lunch or dinner for after the hike.
- Driving Note: Take care in driving through the town of Eldorado Springs, there are many bikers, pedestrians, and pot holes!
- After the Hike: Ozo Coffee in Boulder, Colorado
- Trail Map for Eldorado Canyon State Park: Trail Map Link
- Climbing in Eldorado Canyon
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
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Map & Driving Directions