The Front Range is packed with scenic trails, but some truly stand out.
With stunning geology, history, and unbeatable views, these trails are all within two hours of Denver — some are just 30 minutes away.
Red Mountain Open Space – A Geologic Wonderland
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Just 25 miles north of Fort Collins, Red Mountain Open Space is 55,000 acres of colorful rock formations, sandy washes, and rolling grasslands reminiscent of a Southwest desert-like experience.
A 3.7-mile loop combining Sinking Sun, Big Hole Wash, and Bent Rock Trails takes you through vibrant and rugged landscapes, including a dramatic canyon with striking geologic formations, making the hike educational and scenic.
As you follow the creek through the canyon, you will see millions of years of uplift, folding, and erosion.
Post-hike highlight: Grab a slice of homemade pie at Me Oh My Coffee and Pie in Laporte or look for the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd in Soapstone Prairie Natural Area.
Barr Lake State Park – See Bald Eagles in a Birder’s Paradise
Drive time: 30 minutes
Half wildlife refuge and half recreational lake, Barr Lake State Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 370 species recorded. A pair of bald eagles has nested here since 1986.
Hike the 8.8-mile loop or explore the wildlife refuge’s boardwalks and gazebos more leisurely. The best spot to view bald eagles, pelicans, and herons is the Gazebo Boardwalk, an easy 1.3-mile walk from the Nature Center for a 2.6-mile round-trip hike. The wildlife wonderment is especially enchanting during a sunrise stroll.
Post-hike highlight: Pick fresh fruit and flowers at Berry Patch Farms in Brighton.
Caribou Ranch Open Space – Mining and Music History
Drive time: 1 hour
Near Nederland, this 2,151-acre open space sits between 8,300 and 10,000 feet. The 3-mile Blue Bird Loop and Delonde Trail takes you through pines, aspens, meadows, and the Colorado & Northwestern Railway remnants, once dubbed the “Switzerland Trail of America.” Hike the short spur trail to the Blue Bird Mine Complex to wander around historic mining structures, including the bunkhouse featured in several movies.
The toughest part of the hike is a short incline up for an elevation gain of 85 feet out of the meadow. While rich in mining and ranching history, it also has a fascinating tie to the music industry.
From 1971 to 1985, over 150 artists, including Billy Joel, John Denver, Rod Stewart, and U2, recorded albums. Caribou Ranch Recording Studio produced 45 top-ten albums, 10 Grammy awards, and 20 number-one Billboard hits from this pristine alpine setting.
Post-hike highlight: Visit Nederland and ride the hand-carved Carousel of Happiness.
Mount Falcon Park – Historic Ruins and a Presidential Dream
Drive time: 30 minutes
Hike to the stone ruins of a grand 1909 home and the cornerstone of a presidential summer White House dream. Connect Castle, Meadow, and Tower Trails at Mount Falcon West Trailhead for a 4-mile history-packed loop.
Hike first to the Eagle Eye Shelter, once a family summer cabin. Stop for an overlook view of downtown Denver, then continue to the 1914 cornerstone for a “castle in the clouds.”
Going this route saves the best for last. In 1909, John Brisben Walker built a grand home for his wife Ethel. It burned in 1918, but its ruins remain. For a tougher workout with a 2,000-foot elevation gain, start at the Morrison Trailhead.
Post-hike highlight: Explore Morrison Natural History Museum or see over 300 dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Ridge.
Silver Dollar Lake – A Trio of Alpine Lakes
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Why hike to one alpine lake when you can see three on an epic wildflower hike?
Near the summit of Guanella Pass, Silver Dollar Lake Trail is a moderately challenging 4-mile hike with rewarding views of Naylor, Silver Dollar, and Murray Lakes — if you’re up for an extra challenge. A steep incline at the start leads to rolling terrain, wildflowers, and crystal-clear alpine lakes, ideal for a picnic.
Post-hike highlight: Explore historic Georgetown and ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
Waterton Canyon – Best Bighorn Sheep Spotting
Drive time: 30 minutes
Odds are in your favor to spot bighorn sheep on this easy trail along a wide, flat dirt road following the South Platte River, which is ideal for all skill levels.
At 2.5 miles in, a rocky crag provides the best chance to spot bighorn sheep, sometimes even crossing the trail to drink from the river.
Turn around for a 5-mile hike or continue deeper into the canyon. Since this is the start of the Colorado Trail, you might encounter some long-distance hikers beginning their trek to Durango.
Post-hike highlight: Cool off at Chatfield Reservoir or grab a beer at Living the Dream Brewing in nearby Littleton.
Roxborough State Park – Alternative to Red Rocks
Drive time: 45 minutes
Towering rock formations and unique geology make this one of the most scenic state parks along the Front Range. The 2.3-mile Fountain Valley Trail loops through dramatic red sandstone.
It also takes you past the 1907 house and barn of Henry Persse, who wanted to turn the land into a resort in the early 1900s.
For a more challenging 5-mile hike, connect Willow Creek and South Rim Trails for panoramic views, even of downtown Denver on a clear day.
Post-hike highlight: Play a round at Arrowhead Golf Course or head to Epic Sky Trek in Castle Rock. North America’s largest freestanding aerial challenge course is family-friendly.
Grab your backpack, lace up your boots, and hit these spectacular Front Range trails – each a fun adventure with nearby post-hike gems to enjoy.