Posted in Denver April 03, 2022 by

6 Secret Scenic Hikes Near Denver That Almost Nobody Knows About

When setting out on a hike near Denver, one of the many things you may be looking forward to is getting a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The last thing you want to do is fight traffic on the trail, too. If you are in search of a hike in a remote location that is not too far from Denver, check out these beautiful hikes that promise to take you on a trail less traveled. Here are some of the best hikes in Denver for some peace and quiet:

1. Sleepy Lion Trail
Lyons, CO, USA
All Trails/Hiroko Morikawa
You'll love the peacefulness and beauty that you encounter on this 5.4- mile hike near Lyons. If you get to the trailhead early, you won't encounter many other hikers. Sleepy Lion Trail begins on a service road that follows along North St. Vrain Creek. You then begin hiking up switchbacks which allow for dramatic views of the front range. Next, the trail opens up to a meadow where you just might spot some bighorn sheep and elk. You'll also come upon Ralph Pine Reservoir where you can fish with a permit. The journey back follows the creek on flat terrain for about two miles. It doesn't get much more peaceful than the sound of rushing water while taking in magnificent mountain views. Learn more about this easy hike near Denver on HikingProject.
2. Centennial Cone "Travois" Trail
Centennial Cone, Golden Gate Canyon, CO 80403, USA
All Trails/Hunter Day
If you are looking for a hike with a little more distance, you might want to try this 13-mile trek that is found in the Centennial Cone Open Space located near Golden. If you do, you will be treated to gorgeous wildflowers in the summer and a number of perfect spots to catch the sunrise as well. This hike begins on an old road that takes you by an open cattle range. As you gain elevation along this hike, you will be able to view most of Jefferson County as well as take in the remaining remnants of the old mine that used to operate in this area. One thing to note about this trail is that they alternate days for hikers and mountain bikers to utilize the trail. This trail is open from mid June to February 1st every year. Read more about this seasonal hike near Denver on AllTrails.
3. Mount Flora Trail
Mount Flora, Mt Flora, Colorado 80452, USA
AllTrails/Christopher Sienza
If you are looking for a low-key hike that would be enjoyable for the entire family, this 6.1-mile trail near Idaho Springs should fit the bill. The trail begins on service roads and then you will begin to gain elevation and take in the mountain views as well as many alpine lakes along the way. You will gain the most elevation at the half-mile segment toward the summit which is quite steep. Again, get to this trailhead early to enjoy the solitude you seek. This easy hike near Denver is wonderful for all skill levels.
4. Square Top Mountain
Square Top Mountain, Colorado 80435, USA
All Trails/Mitchell Tracey
This lovely 6.9-mile trail is sandwiched between two 14'ers (Evans-Bierstadt and Grays-Torreys) offering unbeatable views at the top. When you first arrive at the parking lot, don't be overwhelmed by the number of vehicles, as this is also the parking lot for the Mt. Bierstadt trail. The Square Top Mountain trail begins by dropping into a basin of willow, streams, and rolling hills. It becomes more difficult as you begin climbing steep slopes in order to reach fantastic panoramic views at the summit. Learn the technical details of this challenging hike in Colorado on Alltrails.
5. Cupid Peak and Grizzly Peak via Mt. Sniktau Trail
Cupid Peak, 3000-2800, US-6, Dillon, CO 80435, USA
All Trails/Cailin Nelson
This four-mile trail located near Loveland Pass is a tough one, but worth it. Get started early, and take in spectacular views as you summit not one, but two 13er's on this challenging hike. Be prepared for a super steep first mile on your trek and keep your eyes peeled for marmots and mountain goats along the way. This is one of those mountain hikes in Colorado you can't miss.
6. Herman Gulch Trail to Herman Lake
Herman Gulch Trail, Colorado 80435, USA
All Trails/Jason Robers
Even though this 6.4-mile trail is more on the easy side, you won't miss out on amazing views, beautiful wildflowers (in the summer), and the chance to get up close and personal with wildlife. You will begin this hike at Herman Lake trail head which can be found right off of I-70 in Bakerville. During the hike, you will experience a very gradual incline until the very end when your climb gets steep. Even though this trail is right off the highway, hikers aren't usually bothered by the sounds of traffic. This is also one of the best wildflower hikes near Denver.

What are some of your favorite hikes near Denver that offer peace and solitude? Please share in the comment section! If you’re looking for an adventurous hike when it snows, check out these 6 Easy Winter Wonderland Hikes Near Denver Anyone Can Do.

Address: Lyons, CO, USA
Address: Centennial Cone, Golden Gate Canyon, CO 80403, USA
Address: Square Top Mountain, Colorado 80435, USA
Address: Mount Flora, Mt Flora, Colorado 80452, USA
Address: Cupid Peak, 3000-2800, US-6, Dillon, CO 80435, USA
Address: Herman Gulch Trail, Colorado 80435, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes in Denver

April 08, 2022
Tori Jane

What are some of the best scenic hikes in Colorado?  

Okay, so, here’s why this question is almost unfair: Colorado is easily one of the most beautiful states in the country, so how are we supposed to choose just one or two scenic hikes to call the “best”? After all, “best” is subjective; we do, however, have a few favorites we’d like to mention. Some of the most scenic hikes in Colorado – at least we think so – include the absolutely incredible hikes to the Maroon Bells. With multiple routes to choose from, your hike can extend anywhere from one to 13 miles round-trip, and it makes for an excellent day trip (not to mention it’s quite literally one of the most beautiful places in the world). The most popular hike in the state is probably the one to Hanging Lake, south of Glenwood Springs. It’s no wonder why it’s so beloved among locals and visitors; it features an absolutely incredible waterfall paradise with an emerald lagoon sure to help you cool down. Also, be sure to head to Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can do the Alberta Falls Hike (1.6 miles round trip, and if you do any waterfall hike that isn’t Hanging Lake, make it this one) and Fern Falls Hike (5.4 miles round trip and located on the east side of the park).  

What are the best easy hikes around Denver?  

With more than 60 hikes in and around the Denver area, it’s kind of hard to decide where to start. More than a dozen of those 60 trails around Denver are considered easy, so why not start with those? For example, embark upon the Cherry Creek Trail at Fishback Landing Park. It’s LONG, at 24.6 miles in length, and it’s a creekside path leading to all kinds of wonders, natural and man-made. The Green Mountain and Hayden Trail Loop at William F Hayden Green Mountain Park is a 1.8-mile hike with epic views and stunning, rolling green hills. Other favorites include the Bear Creek Greenbelt trail from Sheridan to Woodsworth, which is 3.7 miles long, paved, and also features some creekside delights of its own. Any fan of lakeside hikes in Denver should love these ones, too.  

Address: Lyons, CO, USA
Address: Centennial Cone, Golden Gate Canyon, CO 80403, USA
Address: Square Top Mountain, Colorado 80435, USA
Address: Mount Flora, Mt Flora, Colorado 80452, USA
Address: Cupid Peak, 3000-2800, US-6, Dillon, CO 80435, USA
Address: Herman Gulch Trail, Colorado 80435, USA