Top 5 Spring hikes near Denver

An excuse to hit the trail for a spring hike in Denver ...not that you needed it.

Eric Schuette

Denver, Colorado · May 5, 2015

Nestled right up next to the Rocky Mountains, it isn't too hard to find amazing hikes near Denver. While winter never really wants to say "goodbye" to the Rockies, as the warmer days of spring start getting thrown in the mix, it's a good time to get out and hit the trail. Dust off - or defrost - your hiking boots, grab a friend, and check out some of the best springtime hikes that Denver has to offer.

1. Sunrise on Sugarloaf

The sun is rising or setting over a snowy mountain. — Photo: Eric Schuette

If you can get out of bed in time, the hardest part is done. After that it's just a half mile hike to some amazing 360 degree views of the Front Range to the east and Indian Peaks to the west.

2. Maxwell Falls

A misty, short waterfall flows over rocks. Evergreen trees grow out of the rocky wall. — Photo: Ryan McKinney

This quick, dog friendly hike to a beautiful waterfall is the perfect escape from the city - less than an hour outside Denver!

3. Lumpy Ridge to Gem Point

Pink clouds fill the sky over a rock chimney jutting out of the mountains. — Photo: Eric Schuette

Catch amazing views of the rugged scenery in Rocky Mountain National Park on your way up to Gem Lake, one of the most unique lakes in the park.

4. Mills Lake

Snowy mountains reflect on a calm lake. — Photo: Eric Schuette

Head up to Mills Lake in the afternoon to avoid the dispersing crowds and catch an amazing sunset.

5. Matthew Winters Park

Horizontal striated red rocks dotted with sparse bushes. — Photo: Amy Kesic

Matthew Winters Park is a beautiful and easily accessible retreat from the city. From the top of the plateau, you can see the Hogback, Dinosaur Ridge, and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater.

Feature image: Lumpy Ridge to Gem Lake by Eric Schuette

Destinations

Hiking

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