Echo Lake Trail Near Mt. Evans
Colorado's Echo Lake is looped by an easy hiking trail and serves as a trailhead to even more classic Colorado hikes. When we have friends and family visiting Colorado from out of town, this is one of best destinations for a great views. Go early to Echo Lake to get perfect photos of Mount Evans reflected in the water. Explore the full hike profile below that will give you driving directions from Denver, a trail map, and all the information you need to launch out on this adventure.
Trail Snapshot: Echo Lake Near Mt. Evans
| Hike Distance | Less than 1/4 Mile |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy (but consider altitude) |
| Duration | 15 min |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Elevation | 10,600′ |
| Seasons | Spring to Fall |
| Dogs | Dogs Allowed on Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click Here for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr |
| Directions | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Idaho Springs, Colorado |
| Beauty | Lakes, Mountain Peak Views, Wildlife: Ducks and Geese |
| Activities | Fishing, Picnic Areas, Hiking, Connections to other hikes, Visitor Center, Camping |
Echo Lake Area
A great Colorado park to take visiting family and friends. It's an hour from Denver and has very short trail, but it's a great place to introduce others to the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and to take in a high Colorado lake. The trail circles Echo Lake and connects to several other trails: Chicago Lakes, Bear Track Lakes trails, which give you access to Mount Evans Wilderness Area which is full of other great hiking trails,and Mt. Evans summit.
Near the parking area, you'll find a stone picnic shelter which was built in 1937. When the weather is getting hot, it's a great place for a picnic or a wonderful place to break out the hot chocolate on a snowy winter day.
If you are looking for more Colorado lake hikes, be sure to check out our Lake Hikes Near Denver page.
Echo Lake Colorado Camping
There are great camping opportunities at the Echo Lake Campground near the lake. Near the shores is a spruce forest. For detailed information on camping near Echo Lake in Mt. Evans, see the Recreation.gov page.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Echo Lake, Colorado :
- TIP: Early morning means that Echo lake is still, providing no windy weather, and is a perfect time to photograph or just to observe the rocky mountains reflected in the water.
- TIP: A nice short Colorado hike can be made by parking at the parking lot (see map above & below), and hiking around the lake to the Historic Echo Lake Lodge. Visit there, then turn around and enjoy the lake on the way back again.
- TIP: When you finish, drive up to the summit and enjoy the view from the top of Mt. Evans. Or visit Summit Lake Park
- TIP: One of our favorite day-trips with visitors who are not from Colorado, is to take them to Echo Lake, Mt. Evans Summit (by car), then into Evergreen for Pizza at Beaujos Pizza
- TIP: In regards to driving to the top of Mt. Evans: 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.
- Weather: 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.
- After the Hike: After The Hike: Beaujos in Evergreen
- Looking for something more adventurous? Try the Chicago Lakes Hike. It starts in the same parking lot.
- Trail Map for Echo Lake Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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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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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 information you need for this trail: driving directions to the trailhead, trail map links, and more details.
Trail Snapshot: Willow Creek Trail at Roxborough State Park
| Hike Distance | 1.4 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 1 hr Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All Year |
| Dogs | Not Allowed in Roxborough State Park |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Willow Creek Trail at Roxborough State Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 45 min |
| Driving Directions to Willow Creek Trail at Roxborough State Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Littleton, Colorado |
| Beauty | Red rock formations, meadows, wildlife: mule deer, eagles, foxes, birds |
| Activities | Hiking, birdwatching, Visitors' Center |
| Fee | Entrance Fee or State Parks Pass Required |
A birdwatcher's paradise. Roxborough State Park is Denver's twin sister of Garden of the God's in Colorado Springs. The park has cataloged over 140 species of birds that have been viewed in the park. On our first hike in the park, we encountered several Western Tanager's among the scrub oak.
On our first visit, we brought our dog and had to turn the car around. Roxborough State Park has quite a bit of wildlife and sensitive plant life, so pets are not allowed. Mountain biking and camping are also not permitted.
This would be in our top 5 for visiting family and friends because this Douglas County hike stays at a lower elevation, is easy, and offers awe inspiring views. This is one of our favorite places to visit in the mornings.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Willow Creek Trail at Roxborough State Park :
- To get the best views of wildlife: Go when there is less traffic: Evenings, Mornings, and Weekdays.
- TIP: There is a picnic area with tables just outside the Visitors' Center.
- TIP: Be on the lookout for poison ivy along the sides 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 Roxborough State Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Enchanted Grounds Coffee Shop
- Roxborough State Park Brochure
- Roxborough State Park Site
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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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 slabs of red rock. Explore the hiking profile below for all the trail details, trail map link, and driving directions to the trailhead for this easy Colorado hike.
Trail Snapshot: Fountain Valley Trail at Roxborough State Park
| Hike Distance | 2.3 miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 1.5 hr |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Seasons | All Year |
| Dogs | Not Allowed in Roxborough State Park |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Roxborough State Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 45 min |
| Driving Directions to Fountain Valley Trail at Roxborough State Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Littleton, Colorado |
| Beauty | Red rock formations, meadows, wildlife: mule deer, eagles, foxes, birds |
| Activities | Hiking, birdwatching, Visitors' Center |
| Fee | Entrance Fee or State Parks Pass Required |
Roxborough State Park is Denver's twin sister of Garden of the God's in Colorado Springs. The beautiful Lyons and Fountain formations climb from the valley floor and create a wonderful space for a quiet hike, birdwatching, and viewing wildlife.
The trail is a loop. You can start on the valley floor, then work your way up to the high trail that looks down and across the fountain formation (photo above was taken from around the midpoint of the high trail). On our visit we encountered several whitetail deer and a variety of birds flitting about in the scrub oak that grows in the valley. The initial part of the trail are handicap accessible, but the trail soon becomes a more narrow dirt trail.
There are some ruins of an old estate along the trail and interpretive signs telling about the history of the valley. We would recommend this trail for families with small children and especially for folks visiting Denver and looking for something fun to do. The low elevation is great for out of towners who may not have the time or capacity to get up into the mountains. Dogs are not permitted, so be sure to leave fido at home. Because this trail is in Roxborough State Park, a fee or Colorado state parks pass is required. See the Roxborough State Park Fees page for details.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Fountain Valley Trail at Roxborough State Park :
- TIP: There is a picnic area with tables just outside the Visitors' Center.
- TIP: Be on the lookout for poison ivy along the sides 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 Roxborough State Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Waterton Tavern in Roxborough
- Roxborough State Park Brochure
- Brochure for Roxborough State Park: Brochure Link
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
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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
Weather
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
Weather
Map & Driving Directions
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, there's something for everyone in this stunning park.
One of the most popular trails in Alderfer Three Sisters Park is the Three Sisters Trail. This challenging 6.4-mile loop takes hikers through dense forests, over rocky terrain, and past stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. If you're looking for a shorter, easier hike, the Evergreen Mountain Trail is a great option. This 4.8-mile loop offers gentle slopes and gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains.
But hiking isn't the only activity on offer in Alderfer Three Sisters Park. The park also features world-class rock climbing, with dozens of routes for climbers of all skill levels. And if you're looking for a peaceful picnic spot or a place to relax after your hike, the park's many picnic areas and scenic overlooks are the perfect place to unwind.
To make the most of your visit to Alderfer Three Sisters Park, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. And don't forget your camera – the views are simply breathtaking! With so much natural beauty to explore, it's no wonder that Alderfer Three Sisters Park is one of Colorado's most beloved hiking destinations.
Trail Snapshot: Alderfer and Three Sisters Park
| Hike Distance | 15 Trails: .2 to 10+ Miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy (but consider altitude) |
| Duration | 15 min - 1.5 hrs |
| Trail Type | Loops, Out & Back |
| Starting Elevation | approx. 6500′ |
| Elevation Gain | 0 to approx. +950', depending on the trail |
| Seasons | All |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Alderfer and Three Sisters Park |
| Denver Drive Time | 40 min |
| Driving Directions to Alderfer and Three Sisters Park | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Evergreen, Colorado |
| Beauty | rock formations, vistas, meadows, ponderosa pine, views of the Continental Divide, Stellar Jays and Coopers hawks |
| Activities | Hiking, climbing, family picnics, mountain biking |
Alderfer Three Sisters Park has an East and West Trailhead.
- Driving Directions to Alderfer Three Sisters East Parking Lot
- Driving Directions to Alderfer Three Sisters West Parking Lot
Alderfer and Three Sisters Park has everything from short, pleasant strolls for the family to more strenuous climbs and a long loop hike.
Some Hike Options at Alderfer and Three Sisters Park
A Short Family Hike:
The Wild Iris Loop (.6 mile loop) is a tame stroll through mountain meadows and can be easily accessed from the west parking lot.
Two hikes that are more strenuous
will take hikers to summit views: Evergreen Mountain East Trail, and the Sisters Trail. The Sisters trail may be the most difficult and most enjoyable in the park. The trail takes you up through three, unusual rock outcroppings and to views down into the quaint town of Evergreen.
A 10+ mile loop hike
can be created by hiking the trails that follow the outer rim of the park. Because the park has so many trails, it's advisable to download the Alderfer Three Sisters Park Map (see link in the above trail snapshot). There are so many options that you'll find it easy to create a hike custom to your visit.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Alderfer and Three Sisters Park:
- TIP: Trail List for 3 Sisters – JeffCo Parks
- TIP: Take a hike to the Brother for a great panoramic view and a place to take pictures.
- Alderfer and Three Sisters Park Map: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Pizza at Beau Jo's in Evergreen
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Simon Foot for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
Weather
Map & Driving Directions to Alderfer Three Sisters Park
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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 enchanting during the early morning hours and at twilight.. Explore the full hiking profile below for full trail details, driving directions and more.
Trail Snapshot: South Valley Park Trails
| Hike Distance | 0.5 mile to 3 miles |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 1 to 2 hrs |
| Trail Type | Out & Back and Loop |
| Seasons | All Year |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of South Valley Park Trails |
| Denver Drive Time | 30 min |
| Driving Directions to South Valley Park Trails | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Littleton, Colorado |
| Beauty | Red rock formations, meadows, elk, deer, birdwatching, great sunsets |
| Activities | Hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking |
| Video | Click For Video |
Red Rock towers along the eastern wall of South Valley Park and the foothills begin to the west. Almost 1000 acres of meadow and rock offer a near perfect escape from the sounds of the city. The time lapse below shows a great example of a South Valley Park sunrise.
6 Trails wind through the park. The best place to start is with the South Valley Park Coyote Song Trail. It's a an out an back trail that takes you right through the main meadow. It also connects with the Swallow Trail to form a loop, making your hike about 1.8 miles. The Lyons Back Trail takes you from the Coyote Song Trail and up over the red rock where you can hike trails developed by the Ken-Caryl Ranch foundation.
Tips & Resources for Hiking South Valley Park Trails :
- Don't miss the Coyote Song Trail: The sunsets are wonderful and the park tends to be quiet in the evenings. The Coyote Song Trail is a great way to begin or wind down the day.
- TIP: The Parking area on our map link is the larger of the two. However, you can also begin at the south lot off of Deer Creek Canyon Road. Click here for directions. This gives you a closer connection to the Elk Grazing Trail (seasonal) area and Deer Creek Canyon Park.
- TIP: The red rock calls to be climbed, but climbing is prohibited in this park.
- South Valley Park Trail Map: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Atlas Coffee in Littleton
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Map & Driving Directions
Click for Driving Directions