Hiking often gets hyped as a summer activity, with maybe a little allowance in fall for peeping leave but I would argue that hiking can be enjoyed year-round. Here are six hikes we enjoy near Denver in winter:

Paint Mines – El Paso County

• Paint Mines Trail – 3.4 miles (Can be longer or shorter depending on how much exploring you want to do.
• Traction might be necessary after a storm

Red Rocks Canyon Open Space – Colorado Springs

• Red Rocks Open Space – Manitou Springs, Colorado
• 3.8 mile Loop, Muddy and icy in spots, traction might be necessary
• Very fun hike for kids
• Garden of the Gods s very near and any hike there is incredible as well

Emerald Lake – Rocky Mountain National Park

• Emerald Lake Trailhead – 3.2 miles out and back
• Snowshoes may be needed after a new snow but this trail is very popular so spikes are often enough
• this trail stays icy October through June
• Be prepared for high altitude

Hessie Trail – Nederland, Colorado

• Hessie Trail – 4 miles out and back
• moderate difficulty but can be made easier by turning around early
• Very popular hike, spikes likely needed for icy spots, this is a popular snowshoeing and Nordic skiing trail.

Rainbow Lakes – Frisco, Colorado

• Rainbow Lakes Trail Head – Near Frisco, Colorado
• 2.6 miles out-and-back
• Mostly flat and easy
• Mico-spikes recommended

NCAR – Boulder, Colorado

• NCAR to Mallory Cave – 3.1 mile out and back
• Moderate with some climbing
• I love hiking here all year long
• Can be icy in spots
• fantastic views, easy access from Boulder.

**Remember to practice leave no trace principals while enjoy our wild spaces! Winter hiking tips, be sure to be prepared and be safe!

Please share your favorite trails!