We all know that when you have visitors from out of town, they usually want to see the amazing trails that Colorado has to offer. However, sometimes there isn’t enough time for a long jaunt or they aren’t always up for a challenging hike. Here is a quick guide for some of the easiest hikes to bring your friends and family to when you all want to get outdoors, but not die of exhaustion.
If you want to brush up on hiking etiquette check out our guide here.
Red Rocks Trail at Red Rocks Park
Length: 1.4-miles
The Lowdown: This trail is right out of Morrison nestled in right by Red Rocks Amphitheatre. If you and your visitors are planning on attending a concert or just want to see the beauty of the Red Rocks, the 1.4-mile trail is easy to get to. The trail only takes about 30 minutes to complete and is in a simple loop, so no worries on getting lost. You can also stop into Morrison on your way out and explore the beautiful foothill town.
St. Mary’s Glacier
Length: 1.3-miles
The Lowdown: This trail is a bit of a drive out to Idaho Springs but it is worth the travel. You can hike up the 1.3-mile trail to see a view of the glacier and a gorgeous lake. The hike up may be a bit of a challenge as current reviews have reported it to be a bit rocky, however because of the short length, you don’t have to worry about a long trek up. The trail is also extremely popular so beware of heavy traffic.
Meadowlark Plymouth Creek Loop in Littleton
Length: 1.3-miles
The Lowdown: This trail is a super short drive to the foothills of Jefferson County. The loop is 1.3-mile long and lets you explore the wilderness, without going too far out of town. If you have a dog that tags along, make sure it is kept on a leash while you hike. Be sure to watch out for other hikers and mountain bikers as you hike. The trail has dried out for the season, so it is all ready to take an adventure on.
Buffalo Trail
Length: 2.8-miles
The Lowdown: Take your out of towners on a trip right outside of Pinecliffe for a 2.8-mile hike. The trail features meadows full of wildflowers, song-filled birds and great views. The trail is more trafficked so you and your visitors will have to share but it is open all summer long, so it is a great option for an easy to moderate summer hike. If you do end up bringing a canine friend, make sure you keep them on a leash.
Lookout Mountain Trails
Length: 0.6-miles – 0.8-miles
The Lowdown: Lookout Mountain offers two trails to explore. The trails are located about 30 minutes out of Denver and are both an easy climb at 0.6-miles long and 0.8-miles long. You can get a great view of Lookout Mountain and later maybe even take a look at Boettcher Mansion. Even you are all feeling that one trail is not enough, you can even combine the two to get your heart rate up. Make sure to be on the lookout for rattlesnakes while you hike because they may make an appearance.
Dude’s Fishing Hole
Length: 0.9-mile
The Lowdown: If you are looking for a very easy hike look no further than Dude’s Fishing Hole. The trail is a quick 0.9-mile hike located right outside of Pinecliffe. The trail leads to a beautiful lake, perfect for those fishermen in your life, where you can fish and even take a cheeky dip in. Dogs are allowed on the trail but they do have to be leashed.
Platte River Greenway Trail in Denver
Length: 3.3 miles
The Lowdown: This trail is right inside of Denver, so you don’t have to travel too far to get in a quick hike. You can introduce your visitors to the beautiful sights of the city and some of its history right along the Platte River. You can trail run, hike, walk and take your time on the easy trail. The best part about it? You will be super close to restaurants and breweries to refuel when finished.
Waterton Canyon
Length: 6.2 miles
The Lowdown: This trail can be a bit more challenging, but it is still rated as “easy.” You and your visitors can head up to the foothills, a 35-minute drive from Denver for a hike in Waterton Canyon in Chatfield State Park. The trail is 6.2-miles long and leads up to the Strontia Springs Reservoir. You can also catch sights of bighorn sheep, mule deer and more while you adventure. The bright side? You don’t have to go all the way down if it is too challenging.
Horseshoe Trail to Frazer Meadow
Length: 3.8-miles
The Lowdown: This secluded trail is more on the moderate side as it is 3.8-miles long. Located near Golden in Golden Gate Canyon State Park, the trail leads to a large meadow where you can see Mule deer relaxing in their natural state. You can also learn about the history of the trail as you venture to the end. If you do decide to bring a pup with, make sure they are kept on a leash.
Bear Creek Greenbelt
Length: 3.5 miles
The Lowdown: This trail located in Lakewood is open for all skill levels. The trail is 3.5-miles long and is open year-round and it is centered right in the city. You can walk along the creek for a calm hike, as the trail is mostly quiet. The trail is also open for biking so watch out for cyclists whizzing past you.
Fountain Valley Trail in Roxborough State Park
Length: 2.3 miles
The Lowdown: Close by Water Canyon you will find Roxborough State Park. The easiest trail in the park will lead you around the park in a 2.3-mile loop. You can go deep into the Red Rocks and it is only a 45-minute drive from Denver. You can see Lyons rock formations, wildlife and more. You can also take a look at historical buildings built by Henry S. Persse. You do have to get a day pass to enter the park and unfortunately, no dogs are allowed.
Mount Falcon Lookout Trail
Length: 1.4 miles
The Lowdown: If you aren’t looking hike right near the Red Rocks Amphitheatre try the Mount Falcon Lookout Trail. The trail is about 1.4-miles long and is right outside of Morrison. The trail is not as heavily trafficked as Red Rocks, resulting in a quieter journey. You can catch a glimpse of old lookout towers and cabins, wildflower fields and songbirds alongside the trail as you hike.
North Table Tilting Mesa
Length: 3.2 miles
The Lowdown: North Table Mountain Park features a couple trails for you to explore, including the Tilting Mesa Trail. This trail is 3.2-miles long and offers views of the amazing Mesa Table Tops. If you do bring a dog with you, make sure they stay on a leash. You can step up your Instagram game by posing cacti, wildflowers and more during your adventures.
Raccoon Trail Loop
Length: 2.5 miles
The Lowdown: This trail in Golden Gate Canyon State Park is an easy 2.5-mile loop. The trail is right outside of the city of Golden and promises a great view of the mountains. The trail is a great mixture of easy and challenging, so be ready to break a sweat as you hike and end with a great view. You do need to have a Colorado State Parks Pass to enter the park, but a day pass is only $7 so no worries about large fees.
We all know that hiking is one of the best features in Colorado so make sure to get your friends and family out and about and cross a check off their lists.
There are a ton of trails near and around Denver so if you want more, some of the best sites are ProTrails, AllTrails and Day Hikes Near Denver.