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!