Denver is a city which is often described as a gateway to some of the most beautiful mountains in the United States. It is in essence a bustling metropolis with peaceful peaks on its doorstep. I recently visited Denver to stay with a friend and we spent a week exploring the lakes, mountains and scenic byways surrounding the city. We completed as many trails as we physically could, sometimes doing two in a day! Based on our experiences here are my top recommendations of the very best day hikes which are a maximum of 1-2 hours drive from Denver city centre.
Practicalities:
Getting There: There is a large international airport in Denver which is served by direct flights from the UK and Europe on a daily basis.
Getting Around: I recommend renting a car in order to get around, explore Denver and access the hiking trailheads. There is no need for a high clearance or 4×4 vehicle for the hikes in this guide.
When To Visit: Denver has a pretty long hiking season from April through to October. In the earlier months, there will still be snow on the trails, which will dissipate in late May/early June. Personally, I would recommend September as the best month to go for the most stable weather, clear trails, crisp cool mornings and warm afternoons with lower chances of mountain storms.
How Long To Stay: I visited Denver for a week, staying at my friends house, and enjoyed having time to enjoy slower days and relax in the city – as well as head to the nearby mountains. However, for most hiking enthusiasts I would recommend staying a few days and then heading on a road trip further into the state.
Prices: Denver is not an affordable destination, prices match the rest of North America so budget accordingly. We saved money by making all our own meals and bringing packed lunches on hikes.
Denver Travel Tips
- Denver is located at altitude, and many of the nearby national and state parks are even higher, which is something you need to consider when visiting. Take time to acclimatise on an easier trail before you do any super tough ones, hike slowly, listen to your body, look for any symptoms of altitude sickness and stay hydrated.
- If you do visit during the more stormy summer months of July and August, then I recommend hiking early and trying to be back down below the treeline by midday to 1pm.
- Permits are a big thing. I recommend getting a national parks pass and state parks pass to reduce the cost of entry fees during your visit. You can head to recreation.gov to find out the permit requirements for any hikes in the region, and AllTrails also typically has this information for each route.
- Denver is one of the sunniest cities in the world with 300 days of sun per year, so pack your SPF.
- Follow the leave no trace principles.
The Best Day Hikes From Denver
Lake Isabelle
For those seeking a low effort but maximum reward hike, this is it! The trail starts at Brainard Lake which is well known for moose sightings, I recommend arriving for sunrise to have the best chance of seeing them. We got super lucky and spotted six including two large males! The route then climbs gently up past Long Lake to the absolutely stunning Lake Isabelle, a great spot to stop and have a picnic or snack with a view.
Distance: 10.5km
Elevation Gain: 205m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Map: Here
Note: You need a timed entry permit for the Brainard Lake Parking area. We did this hike on day one to help me acclimatise to the altitude, which is what I recommend you do too.
Sky Pond, Lake Haiyaha & Emerald Lake
If you only have time to do one hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, this trail ticks all the boxes. Eight stunning lakes, two towering waterfalls, numerous dramatic peaks and miles of peaceful forests. Perhaps my personal highlight is the Lake of Glass, a perfectly still reflective lake which beautifully mirrors the mountains above it. It’s worth noting that there is a beginner friendly scramble up the side of a waterfall, which makes the trail even more exciting!
Distance: 18km
Elevation Gain: 750m
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Map: Here
Note: You will need 2 permits to do this hike. A timed entry permit for the park and one for Bear Lake Road. If you do not get these permits you can just arrive before they come into affect (5am).
Summit Lakes & Chicago Lakes
This trail is perfect for those of you who want to get off the beaten path and escape the crowds. Located in the Mount Evans Wilderness, this underrated and spicy route starts at over 3000m altitude and the highest point sits at just below 4000m, so it is a serious physical challenge. However, you are amply rewarded with some of the most incredible views as you pass by five stunning lakes, lush green valleys and towering rugged peaks. I absolutely loved this one and it gets bonus points for not requiring a permit!
Distance: 17km
Elevation Gain: 1000m
Difficulty: Very Challenging
Trail Map: Here
Chasm Lake
If dramatic scenery is what you’re after, then you need to do this hike – it absolutely blew me away! Chasm Lake is a jewel nestled just below the iconic Longs Peak, a 14,000ft peak and the tallest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park. The views on the climb up are vast and the lake itself is framed by some of the most beautiful rugged peaks I saw in Colorado.
Distance: 13km
Elevation Gain: 800m
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Map: Here
Note: You will need a timed entry permit for this hike if you plan to enter during typical park hours. We didn’t need one as we started the hike before the permits come into affect, at 5am.
