I’ve Hiked 30+ Denver Trails – These 7 Are Perfect for Beginners

Look, I get it. Everyone in Denver seems like they were born with hiking boots on.

But if you’re new to hiking or just visiting from sea level, most trail recommendations are absolutely brutal. “Oh it’s just a moderate 14er!” Yeah, right.

After researching tons of trails and seeing what actually works for beginners, here are the ones that won’t destroy you.

1. Red Rocks Trading Post Trail

Distance: 1.4 mile loop

Elevation gain: 200 feet

Drive from Denver: 25 minutes

This is THE starter hike. You get those iconic red rocks everyone wants to see, but it’s actually doable.

The trail is well-marked. There’s shade in spots. And if you get tired, it’s short enough that you can push through.

Go early morning or late afternoon. Midday in summer is rough – no shade and the rocks radiate heat.

2. Lair O’ the Bear Creek Trail

Distance: 1.5 miles (or however far you want)

Elevation gain: Basically flat

Drive from Denver: 35 minutes

This one follows Bear Creek, so you get water views the whole time. Kids love it because they can throw rocks in the creek.

The best part? You can turn around whenever you want. Tired after half a mile? Cool, turn around. Feeling good? Keep going.

There are picnic tables at the trailhead. Makes it easy to bring lunch and chill after.

3. Cherry Creek Trail (The Urban Option)

Distance: However much you want

Elevation gain: None

Drive from Denver: You’re already here

I know, I know. A paved trail isn’t “real” hiking.

But here’s the thing – it’s perfect for getting your legs ready for harder stuff. Plus you can bail and get an Uber if needed.

Start at Confluence Park and go toward Cherry Creek Mall. Turn around whenever. There are coffee shops and restaurants along the way.

4. South Valley Park Coyote Song Trail

Distance: 1.8 miles

Elevation gain: 180 feet

Drive from Denver: 25 minutes

This one has those red rock formations like Roxborough, but way less crowded.

It’s mostly flat with a few small hills. Wide trail, hard to get lost. You get great views without the death climb.

Bonus: It’s usually less crowded than Red Rocks or Roxborough.

5. Lookout Mountain Trail

Distance: 2.0 miles round trip

Elevation gain: 340 feet

Drive from Denver: 30 minutes

Okay, this one has some uphill. But the payoff is huge.

You get views of Denver, the mountains, everything. And it’s only 2 miles total. The trail is wide and well-maintained.

There’s also Buffalo Bill’s grave up there if you want to be touristy after.

6. Mount Falcon Castle Trail

Distance: 2.5 mile loop

Elevation gain: 350 feet

Drive from Denver: 30 minutes

This one has ruins of an old castle/mansion thing. Kids think it’s cool. Adults Instagram it.

The trail is pretty mellow with amazing views. You can see downtown Denver on clear days.

Pro tip: Start from the west parking lot. It’s way less crowded than the east side.

7. Chief Mountain (When You’re Ready to Level Up)

Distance: 3.0 miles round trip

Elevation gain: 900 feet

Drive from Denver: 1 hour

This is your graduation hike. Once you’ve done the others, try this.

You’ll be at 11,700 feet, so altitude is real. But the trail is straightforward and the views are absolutely insane.

You can see Mount Evans, Mount Bierstadt, everything. It feels like a “real” Colorado hike without being impossible.

Beginner Hiker Reality Check

Altitude is no joke. Even easy hikes feel harder at elevation. Drink water constantly.

Start earlier than you think. Afternoon thunderstorms are real in summer. Plus parking fills up.

The weather changes FAST. Bring layers even if it’s 75 degrees when you leave.

Download the trail map. Cell service disappears quickly. AllTrails works offline.

What to Actually Bring

• Way more water than you think – Like twice as much
• Snacks – Altitude makes you hungry
• Sunscreen – The sun hits different at elevation
• A hat – Trust me on this
• Real shoes – Sneakers work for these trails

Parking Situation (The Part Nobody Mentions)

Red Rocks: Free but fills up by 9am on weekends

Lair O’ the Bear: Free, usually spots available

Cherry Creek: Street parking or pay lots

South Valley: Free, small lot though

Lookout Mountain: Free at nature center

Mount Falcon: Free but fills up fast

Chief Mountain: Free, decent sized lot

When NOT to Go

Saturday 10am-2pm: Every trail is packed

Sunday after 11am: Families everywhere

After rain: Muddy disaster

First snow: Beautiful but sketchy

My Honest Take

People make Denver hiking seem way harder than it needs to be.

You don’t need $500 worth of gear. You don’t need to wake up at 4am. You don’t need to summit a 14er your first week here.

Start with these easy ones. Build up slowly. Figure out what you actually like.

Half the people on the hardcore trails are miserable anyway. They just won’t admit it.

---

What was your first Denver hike? Did it destroy you like mine did?

Next: Red Rocks at 6am Changed Everything – once you’re ready for the next level.