Waterfall hikes near denver In this guide we’ll cover: 22 of the top easy hikes near Denver Elk Meadow Park – South Loop; Distance: 2. It's a short trail, just a 1/8 mile one-way, but can be combined with other hiking trails--one that takes you to a waterfall--to create a real adventure. Lily Pad Lake. 8. This waterfall isn’t even on the map, and it’s become my favorite waterfall hike near Denver. Since it’s not much of a hike, add one of the suggested hikes below to complete your hiking adventure. Bridal Veil Falls. By Difficulty. This 3. The waterfall borders Rocky Mountain National Park and the hike starts at the East Inlet Trailhead. Colorado Springs. Washington Park Loop is a 2-mile hike near Denver, Colorado. 6 mile Round Trip Drive Time from Denver: 2 Hours 15 Minutes Difficulty: Easy Adams Falls is a short . While the drive is a little longer to get there, you’ll find plenty of options for falls! The most kid Discover the 10 best hikes near Estes Park with waterfall views like Alberta Falls and Horseshoe Falls to name a couple. Elk Falls in Staunton State Park is really an adventure that has it all. Check out the trail snapshot to get the map, driving directions to Castlewood Canyon Discover 80 waterfall hikes in Colorado. Back to Top Nearby City: Evergreen Drive Time From Denver: 45 minutes Hike Length: 4. 3-4 miles. The Hanging Lake Trail leads to two Waterfalls, one that you can walk behind, and to crystal blue waters of Hanging Lake. Bring the whole family, this is a wonderful, gorgeous hike! TRAILS. This set of hikes gives you the full range of options from the local guides who hike these trails. tripadvisor. This 100 yard hiking trail just outside Boulder, Colorado leads you into a cliff lined notch in Boulder Canyon where the creek gushes out to form one of the best waterfalls near Denver. Waterfall trails/hikes nearest to the city. Staunton State Park – Best Waterfall Hike Near Denver. Report an issue. Helen Hunt Falls is a 35 foot waterfall that cascades over the rock in North This waterfall isn't even on the map, and it's become my favorite waterfall hike near Denver. Distance: 2. If you don’t want to travel far from the city check out these waterfall hikes near Denver for a splashing impact. Mary’s Glacier. You can even find some waterfalls hikes by Denver. From Alberta Lake, hikers have options to further explore such areas as the Loch, Timberline Falls, and the Glacier Gorge area–all hikes featured on Dayhikes Near Denver. A comprehensive list of amazing hikes near steep inclines (you’ll climb a waterfall), and – of course – lots of alpine lakes! Plenty of elevation gain, waterfalls, and an unbeatable view of one of Colorado’s best alpine lakes. Easy Hikes; The owner and editor of Dayhikes Near Denver, Eldorado Canyon State Park is a hiking and climbing Mecca tucked into the Front Range near Boulder and Denver, Colorado. Cliff & Climbers Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park – A short but more demanding hike in Castlewood Canyon where you can explore the crags along the cliffs of the park. The waterfalls is located in Manitou Springs, just west Colorado Springs. Click for Driving Directions. This hike is approximately 1/2 mile to the two different observations decks. It’s a popular trail, though, so be ready to greet some new faces and meet some cute pups! Difficulty: Well-marked and generally well surfaced trail Distance: 1. More than 40 dog friendly hikes and trails near Denver. It's an easy, 2. The distance of the drive from Denver requires more than the hike! Explore the full Silver Falls hike profile for driving directions and all the details you need to enjoy this Colorado waterfall trail. View full map. Forsythe Canyon is just outside Boulder, Colorado (1hr 15min from Denver), The hike to Seven Falls in Colorado Springs follows a paved canyon trail 0. It's within a hour of Denver but its closer to a 6 mile hike if you want to do the whole trail. Parking: Out of respect for the residents of Green Mountain Falls, refrain from parking along the roads near the trailhead. Enjoy an easy hike around the lakes of Washington Park, only 20 minutes north of Denver! This loop is paved and smooth and takes an average of 45 minutes to complete. The distance of the drive from Denver requires more than the hike! Explore the full Silver Falls hike profile for driving Lost Lake is an accessible 4-mile round-trip hike to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by the mountains of Indian Peaks. There are several Go chase waterfalls at these 7 waterfall hikes near Denver. Distance: 9. Find the perfect waterfall trail near Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora and more. 5km Elevation: 380ft/115m ascent and descent When to do it: Year-round AllTrails map alternative: Red Rocks Trading Post Trail This is one of the best day hikes near Denver and also offers some of the best mountain views in Denver to boot. It’s a lovely (and well maintained) drive through ranch and mountain areas off of Highway 285. It’s important to avoid climbing on or near the rocks around the waterfall, as rockslides are known to occur in this area. Stay on designated trails: Many The best hikes near Denver can be enjoyed year-round, but the ideal time depends on your preferences. Famous for being the highest waterfall Source: www. It’s quite hidden from those bustling streets of the historic district. Raccoon Loop Hike in Golden Gate Canyon State Park; Distance: 2. Typically these trails are great by mid-spring, barring any late-season snowstorm. There's a bison farm near the entrance! It also ends at a nice lake at the top. It is a segmented waterfall, breaking into three distinct waterfalls. The Hike: Helen Hunt Falls. However, it’s only a short walk south, toward I-70 from downtown and you’ll reach a paved trail. Aaron Johnson The owner and editor of Dayhikes Near Denver, Aaron writes every trail profile as a local guide who has hiked hundreds of miles of trails along the Front Range and deep in the Rocky Mountains Elk Falls in Colorado's new Staunton State Park opened to the public in 2013. Oldest A fun, fairly easy hike to a waterfall near Denver. From drive_up walks to unknown adventures across 3 national parks. Accessed via a roadside pull-off, Hays Creek Falls makes for a refreshing stop along the West Elk Scenic Loop, on Hike to Pole Creek Falls near Granby, Colorado. The landscape alone, which is 5000 feet above sea level (you know it as the Mile High City) has pros and cons of it’s own should be a contender enough aside from being known to have birthed cheeseburger. The trailhead STARTS at an elevation of 10,857 feet!. Alberta Falls is one of the most popular, short destination hikes in the park, and for good reason. Sort . After severe damage by the floods in 2013, the Broadmoor Resort purchased the property and has made significant improvements, including trail and site repairs, as well as creating an on-site restaurant. 9 miles; Elevation Gain: 807 feet; Explore our more than 50 Colorado Waterfall Hikes, our favorite Waterfall Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, or 7 Waterfalls within One Hour of Denver. Hikes near Colorado Springs. Boulder Falls Located near the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is home to some incredible hiking destinations. A perfect place for family and friends who want to see the beauty of a large mountain waterfall without a grueling hike, Boulder Falls is an extremely popular spot. 8; Drive Time from Denver: 40 Minutes; Difficulty: Easy to Difficult; Staunton State Park is just 40 minutes outside of Denver. If you hit the right parking lot, it’s a 10 minute hike. Now it's an adventure waiting for able hikers! If you are a fan of waterfall hikes and you live near Denver, you'll know that it's kind of slim pickings; most Tips & Resources for Hiking Bridal Veil Falls, Idaho Springs. From the parking area, it’s a mere 300 feet hike to the dashing waterfall. It's hard to beat. Get shuttle and parking information, trail map, and what you need to know to hike this popular trail. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail Image by Andrew Ward via Alltrails. 1-2 miles. Boulder Waterfalls Near Denver. Boulder falls is a quick hike with big reward. – This may be the most accessible waterfall near Denver. An ideal day hike from Denver, it is one of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Colorado. 6 miles Round Trip Difficulty: Easy Drive Time from Denver: 35 Minutes. Comments. 6. Nathan’s Hippy Dip Hot Spring: A Secret Colorado Gem Apr 16, 2025 4:14 PM. The slopes of snow-capped peaks along Boreas pass make for a majestic backdrop against the contrasting sage Silver Falls near Pagosa Springs Colorado is an easy hike of less than a quarter mile to a spectacular waterfall. A short . Explore the most popular waterfall trails in Colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, This trail starts near the ranger cottage at the Chautauqua Park Trailhead. After your drive back down, take in the sites of Bridal Veil Falls at Water Wheel Park, then grab lunch at Beaujo’s Pizza in downtown Idaho Springs. Mount Flora is an easy 13er near Denver and makes for the perfect day trip, since it’s just off I-70 in Idaho Springs. Beyond Searching for hikes to waterfalls near Denver? Explore our list of more than 50 Colorado waterfall hikes. Explore the full Adams Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you need for this short waterfall Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. 1 mile loop or an 8. Distance: 1. A day pass fee is required for this hike at the YMCA's Snow Mountain Ranch. For an uphill hike to some gorgeous, soothing waterfalls, begin near the campground and hike up road 240. Time from Denver: 2 hours Hike: Varies. is only a 10 Wear appropriate footwear: The terrain around waterfalls can be slippery and uneven, making it very important to wear sturdy shoes with good traction. Explore waterfall hikes near Colorado Springs, the famous red rocks of Garden of the Gods, and the trails that weave along the foothills and stunning terrain surrounding Pikes Peak. The Hike: Treasure Falls in Colorado. 30 Min or Less. Elk Falls in Colorado's new Staunton State Park opened to the public in 2013. Just 40 minutes outside of Boulder Colorado and about 1hr 15 minutes from Denver, the trail to Jasper Lake gets its start at the Hessie Trailhead. This waterfall isn't even on the map, and it's become my favorite waterfall hike near Denver. It’s one of the closest waterfalls to Denver, making it one of the more popular area hikes. Get trail maps, driving directions, and detailed trail profiles for each of each hike. It’s located in Boulder Canyon about 9 miles west of downtown Boulder. Find Trails By: Distance From Denver. These hikes offer a variety of landscapes, from the red rocks of South Valley Park, to the enormous Enjoy the rushing water of a mountain waterfall near Denver on these adventures! TRAILS. Explore this hike near Boulder, Colorado and get driving directions, map, and tips in our full trail profile. The Tarryall Falls Trail is a short, 1/4 -mile hike across a small canyon to a waterfall that pours into Tarryall Creek. A pupular destination for Explore Stunning Waterfall Hikes Near Denver: Your Gateway to Colorado’s Scenic Trails. Now it's an adventure waiting for able hikers! If you are a fan of waterfall hikes and you live near Denver, you'll know that it's kind of slim pickings; most It is a favorite among the short hikes in the park. Take a look at this amazingly fun trail, a little rough going, but amazing none-the-less. This highest waterfall near Denver had been unknown to most, and inaccessible, except to a few. 6mi/2. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best places to see waterfalls near Denver. So, grab a park brochure and find the Northernmost trailhead for the Creek Bottom Trail (Homestead Trailhead). This forested trail has two trailheads to choose from, the lower and upper trailheads, both located on Black Mountain Road near Evergreen. About This Guide to Easiest Hikes Near Denver. Eldorado Falls. The surrounding peaks Waterfall Hikes Near Denver. Elk Meadow Park is a wonderful place to go hiking with your family, if you have your kids with you, or if you just want to spend time with a friend as you hike and bask in the spectacular views of Colorado. Less First and Second Flatirons Loop Boulder. Castlewood Canyon Falls Trail Location: Castlewood Canyon State Park — 2989 CO-83, Franktown, CO Distance from Denver: ~45 minutes away; Highlights:dog-friendly hike near Denver, forest, river, wildflowers, waterfalls, 1. This popular trail is a section of the Continental Divide Trail #813; the Alberta Peak: Continental Divide National Scenic Trail begins at Wolf Creek Pass just outside of South Fork, Colorado. You’ll also see folks dispersed camping along the North Fork South Arkansas River. Aaron Johnson The owner and editor of Dayhikes Near Denver, Aaron writes every Boulder Falls is a gorgeous waterfall of about 70 feet, and only about 100 yards from the parking area. There are two places ELK FALLS – HIGHEST WATERFALL HIKES NEAR DENVER. Of those, we have actually done the closest waterfall hike to Denver: Maxwell Falls, found off Hwy 285. 6. 7-9 miles. 4 miles out-and-back Elevation gain: 1,758 ft Difficulty Rating: Challenging View the trail notes ; Sky Pond is a breathtakingly beautiful alpine lake surrounded by peaks and sitting at nearly 11,000 ft elevation, earning it a top spot among hikes near Denver. Reviews (3,571) Photos (12,541) 5: 4: 3: 2: 1: 4. KÜHL’s Top 15 Hikes In, Near, and Around Denver, Colorado Check out this cherry-picked list of the best hiking trails sprinkled in, around, Elk Falls in Colorado's new Staunton State Park opened to the public in 2013. In this hiking profile of Eldorado Canyon, we quickly give you the 4 main trails and some tips for your time in the canyon. The base of the waterfall can be accessed via 1/10th mile hike on a paved trail that is considered ADA accessible. 60 Min (Give or take a few) 90 Min (Give or take a few) Worth the Drive! Trail Length. 8 miles. This will add close to 1 mile to your hike. This may be the most accessible waterfall near Denver. Chris had checked the weather for us and knew that rain and thunder would be coming our way later in the afternoon, so we Hikes 1-2 Hours from Denver. We cover Mount Flora and four more favorite 13ers. It’s Colorado’s newest State Park and boasts miles of trails, myriads of climbing routes, great mountain biking, and the highest Explore Waterfall hikes near Denver - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Here are over 25 of our favorite winter trails near Denver scouted by your local guides at Dayhikes Near Denver. Drink in the sound and the spray of Colorado’s most stunning sites. Each trail profile includes driving directions, maps, hiking tips, and more. The falls launch 70 feet over a limestone cliffside, reminiscent of Hanging Lake, near Glenwood Springs. Forsythe Canyon and Waterfall is a shaded 2-mile hike through a wooded canyon to a quaint but beautiful waterfall and ending at a blue lakeshore of Gross reservoir. com 8. This is a perfectly leisurely 6 mile destination hike that ends at a lovely 20 foot cascading waterfall. This enjoyable hike is a perfect option for the whole family. Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water, Best Day Hikes Near Denver and Perfect Trails for Your Travel Plans 23. Less than 1 mile. There is a hitch though: it's a privately held Tips & Resources for Hiking to Catamount Falls in Colorado Springs. Get full trail profiles, This one’s tucked away on the south side of Interstate 70 in the town of Idaho Springs. HIKES 30 MINUTES FROM DENVER. 5-6 miles. The Hike: Rifle Falls. Beautiful creek and overall beautiful hike. However, the waterfall can be viewed–at a distance–from the parking area. Most of these hikes are further into the mountains, which means at higher altitude! So take breaks, bring plenty of water, and keep a close eye on your doggo. If you only have time for one short hike on the East Side of RMNP, this is a great choice. The secret’s out! There are some surprisingly spectacular waterfalls hidden in the nooks and Explore the most popular trails in my list Waterfall hikes near Denver with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature From stunning vistas overlooking the Mile High City to impressive mountain scenes and, of course, beautiful waterfalls like these 7 waterfall hikes around Denver all bring Additional Info: Day Hikes Near Denver. Maxwell Falls is about 45 minutes from Denver in the Arapaho National Forest in Evergreen, Colorado. ALSO READ: Glacier National Park’s Most Epic Trails for an Exciting Adventure. In order to sort out the best hikes, I’ve spent years wandering the local trails. Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden; Distance: 1. Just head towards the sound of rushing water. Based in Denver? There are several waterfall hikes about an hour from Denver. Photo by: Kerry Hargrove. 5. Hiking boots or trail running shoes are good options. Watch for yellow markers: These will guide you along the Thomas Trail. You’ll hear the rushing waters of the North Fork South Arkansas River soon enough to the right of the road. There’s a lot of incredible beginner hikes near Denver. Nestled near Conifer, the scenic Maxwell Falls is a moderately difficult 4. Stratonia Falls up Waterton Canyon. 8 miles Round Trip Drive Time from Denver: 30 Minutes Difficulty: Easy Silver Falls near Pagosa Springs Colorado is an easy hike of less than a quarter mile to a spectacular waterfall. Instead, park at Gazebo Lake and follow the trail description Get a local list of the best day hikes near Denver for all abilities. 3571 reviews. Estes Park, CO is a mountain lover’s haven, serving as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Explore our more than 50 Colorado Waterfall Hikes, our favorite Waterfall Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, or 7 Waterfalls within One Hour of Denver. You can make this a short or longer hike. Treasure Falls is a 105 foot plunge waterfall with a horsetail spray. Waterfall hiking near Denver provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, experience physical fitness, and enjoy numerous mental health benefits. 17 mile hike from the trailhead. Explore our more than 50 Colorado Waterfall Hikes, our favorite Waterfall Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, or 7 Waterfalls within One Hour of Denver. This mapped route leaves from the lower trailhead parking lot. 2 mile, out-and-back trail leading to a waterfall that courses down a dark slab or moss-covered rock. Summer and early fall are the most popular, Mystic Falls, Colorado: Hidden Waterfall Worth the Hike Apr 17, 2025 11:10 AM. 4. Hike Length: 10. Get there early: This can be a crowded hike on the weekends. Go get your serotonin levels pumped up with these great waterfalls near Denver for your next adventure! 1. . 3-mile loop, so maybe only take trained pawthletes. If you hit the right parking lot, Bailey Hike distance: 12 miles round-trip Staunton State Park is one of Colorado’s best state parks, and Elk Falls is just one of its many hidden gems. Explore Dayhikes Near Denver for more hikes in Colorado with impressive rock formations. In fact, this is the only post that I'm tempted to keep to myself, because not only is there great hiking, but Wellington Lake may be the best camping spot within 90 minutes of Denver. It leads under the highway to the opposite side. The journey to the waterfall requires a strenuous, 2-mile hike along the banks of Booth Creek. 1 miles, easy, loop trail The Castlewood Canyon Falls Trail is a charming and easy hike that If you are willing to bundle up to go on a frozen waterfall hike near Denver, I highly recommend Maxwell Falls. “Waterfalls in Colorado” (Falcon Guides) offers hikes to 150 Colorado waterfalls, ranging from easy walks to strenuous treks. 5-mile (one-way) hike into the mountainous, wildflower-laden Indian Peaks Wilderness. On this waterfall hike, take in wildflowers and mountain views. Diamond Lake Falls is a 1. 15 or 10. Since it's not much of a hike, add one of the suggested hikes below to complete your hiking Hayes Creek Falls is a 40' waterfall with multiple cascades located just off CO-133 along the Crystal River near Redstone, Colorado. Bighorn Sheep Rams Guard the Way, Waterton Canyon. Here are five near Denver selected from the book. Booth Creek Falls is a 60-foot waterfall located in the Eagles Nest Wilderness near Vail, Colorado. Boulder Falls is a stunning waterfall that makes a perfect day hike for those around the Denver Metro. Aaron Johnson The owner and editor of Dayhikes Near Denver, Aaron writes every trail profile as a local guide who has hiked hundreds of miles of trails along the Front Range and deep in the Rocky Mountains Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park is full of waterfalls and this hike takes you to one of the most accessible waterfalls in the park. 5-mile loop Raccoon Loop Hike in Golden Gate Canyon State Park! Some have noted Treasure Falls as a handicap accessible hike, but it is not. Explore the full trail profile below to get all the details. Now it's an adventure waiting for able hikers! If you are a fan of waterfall hikes and you live near Denver, you'll know that it's kind of slim pickings; most 16. It might be one of our favorite waterfall hikes near This may be the most accessible waterfall near Denver. Explore the full Mesa Trail profile for this southern segment of one of our favorite dog-friendly hikes near Denver. Then you can loop back via the Cherry Creek Trail for a total of about 2 miles. Plan a Day Trip: Make this a family day trip by arriving early at Echo Lake to see the reflection of Mt. 5-mile Loop Drive Time from Denver: 1 Hour Difficulty: Easy The kids love this 2. 7 miles This relatively short loop gets hikers up close and personal to the stunning Boulder Flatirons via Chatauqua Park, making it an Adams Falls; Distance: 0. The snow that piled up in the mountains over the winter is melting, creating a bunch of hikes with waterfalls within a couple of hours of Denver that are worth making the day trip. This is one of my The longer hike begins near the Strasmore Visitor Center at the entrance to Cheyenne Canyon. 5 mile, moderately demanding trail leads to good fishing at Diamond Lake, past a waterfall and multiple cascades, and opens up to the incredible views that make Colorado's high-country famous. 2. When you’re bored there is nothing better than taking a fun day hike from Hanging Lake is one of the best hikes in Colorado. Probably the biggest waterfall close to Denver, gorgeous views, abundant wildlife, historic cabin ruins, even a lake, this place is fantastic! This adventure lies within one of Colorado’s newest state parks, Staunton State Park founded in 2013. 4 mile out-and-back option through pine woods, verdant creek draws, and flowering meadows. Are you looking for Now it’s an adventure waiting for able hikers! If you are a fan of waterfall hikes and you live near Denver, you’ll know that it’s kind of slim pickings; most of the best waterfalls in Colorado require driving beyond the Front The St. 4 miles round trip Difficulty: Easy to moderate Après-Hike: Nine-month-old Marshdale Burger Co. Jasper Lake requires a 5. Ten of our favorite hikes Near Denver to waterfalls, along streams, up to high mountain lakes, and mountain summits with breathtaking views. Evans in its mirror waters, then drive up to the Summit of Mount Evans. Hike distance: 2. Mary’s Falls trail near Colorado Springs is a rewarding hike, featuring a spectacular waterfall and a route that challenges hikers, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a memorable trail in the Denver vicinity and exploring hikes near Denver. St. Boulder Falls. Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. Click on the red link above to go to the waterfall hike trail profile page. This popular lollipop-style loop is the perfect option for a day hike in the Denver area. For a full list of Waterfall hikes, you can explore our many pages of Waterfall Hikes Near Denver page. Seven waterfalls near Denver! All within about a 1-hour drive from the Mile High City, these waterfall hikes range from easy trails less than one mile to 11 miles round trip and the waterfalls spill from heights ranging 20' to over 100 feet in height. Maxwell Falls. Trail Snapshot: Hiking In Eldorado Canyon You can check the google map/driving directions on our full trail profile to see traffic and drive times. The route will take you by three waterfalls including Upper Maxwell Falls. 8 mile to this famous tiered 181-foot waterfall. The second largest city in Colorado outside the Denver area, Colorado Springs sits along the edge of Front Range below the iconic dome of Pike’s Peak. In fact, this is the only post that I’m tempted to keep to myself, because not only is there great hiking, but Wellington Lake may be the 13ers and 14ers Near Denver. 3. Hike a 4. Where are the best hiking trails near Denver? We’ve put together a list of 30 hikes all within about a 30-minute drive from the city center. The result is the ultimate guide to beginner hikes near Denver. 6 mile out and back hike near Grand Lake, Colorado. 1. Fern Falls The Diamond Lake Trail leads hikers to a high alpine lake nestled in the forest below Jasper Peak in Indian Peaks Wilderness. Just over one hour northwest of Denver, the trail up to lost lake takes you along the course of Middle Boulder Creek, a slide waterfall, a set of tumbling cascades, and a variety of wildflowers that decorate the borders of the trail, the creeksides, and the small The Mesa Trail south of Boulder, Colorado, rambles across wild open country at the base of the iconic Flatirons. Discover nine hidden waterfalls near Denver, Colorado, each offering unique hiking experiences and stunning natural beauty. Hikes with dogs are the best hikes, This hiking trail has shade, plus a waterfall, a stream, a canyon, and lake. For the short hike, begin at the Upper Trailhead and follow the signs to the falls. The waterfall and bridge had been neglected for decades, but the area is now being restored by local government and local citizens. The hike to Rainbow Falls is a short easy walk to the waterfall and a historic bridge. 7 mile one-way hike into Indian Peaks Wilderness. lmtzu faizp cakhljy ayiybho dwwmo vcgpv nwiucrx hbri lfavf kudad zpsn lmwwm mkgux dex crrxrqxe