In the hiking club I run, Colorado Mountain Mamas, we hike all over the Front Range and have about 30 or so hikes in our repertoirethat are all less than 40 minutes from the city. My favorite one is just up Golden Gate Canyon off highway 93 in the White Ranch Park.
White Ranch is pretty remote and usually very quiet - even on the weekends. I like when we have the trail to ourselves for a couple hours. And the route I just can't get enough of takes you along the Mustang Trail. You can climb a very steep stretch for about a half mile and wish the entire time that you were on a horse! Since it's a steep stretch, you'll want to take a couple breaks and turn around to see the snow-capped peaks of the Continental Divide. It will take your breath away if the steep climb hasn't already!
As you get to the top of this one climb, you'll be greeted with spectacular views east over the city of Denver. Then you get to hike downhill back to your car. This is the spot where you can actually chat with your hiking companions so they don't feel like you've completely lost interest in their lives.
So bring lots of water, bring a lunch to eat at the top, and check out the White Ranch Park. There are so many trails in this park that you'll be coming back often!
Trail facts: Mustang Trail 3.6 miles, includes access to a small campground for easy backpacking.
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