Just because you may have a more traditional schedule of 8-hour work days doesn't mean you should negate the luxury of our incredible outdoor spaces in Colorado. Trade a day in the gym for an afternoon at any of these stunning vistas for amazing views while you get your sweat on. Make sure to double-check the town or city's website for trail closures, dog policies, and rattlesnake activity. Most of these locations require you to leash your pup if you bring them along, the last thing you want is for your curious furry friend to get in a sticky situation.
With each recommendation, we've included general trail ratings based on trail condition, steepness of grades, elevation, and any natural barriers that must be traversed. Check out our favorite spots to get your steps in.
Coyote Song Trail
Ken Caryl
Hiking Level: Easy
35 minutes from Denver | 3 miles | 1 hr to complete
Fountain Valley Loop Trail
Roxborough Park
Hiking Level: Easy
40 minutes from Denver | 2.6 miles | 1 hr 5 min to complete
Lake Gulch Trail to Castlewood Canyon Dam
Franktown
Hiking Level: Easy
45 minutes from Denver | 2.6 miles | 1 hr 5 min to complete
Bluffs Regional Park and Trail
Lone Tree
Hiking Level: Easy
30 minutes from Denver | 3.7 miles | 1 hr 15 min to complete
Daniels Park Trail
Castle Pines
Hiking Level: Easy
35 minutes from Denver | 5.7 miles | 2 hrs to complete
Trading Post Trail
Morrison
Hiking Level: Moderate
30 minutes from Denver | 1.5 miles | 45 min to complete
Red Rocks and Morrison SlideTrails
Morrison
Hiking Level: Moderate
30 minutes from Denver | 3 miles | 1 hr 35 min to complete
Parmalee Trail Loop
Morrison
Hiking Level: Moderate
30 minutes from Denver | 3 miles | 1 hr 30 min to complete
Panorama Point Trail
Evergreen
Hiking Level: Moderate
35 minutes from Denver | 3.1 miles | 1 hr 35 min to complete
Genesee Mountain Trail Outer Loop
Golden
Hiking Level: Moderate
30 minutes from Denver | 3.5 miles | 1 hr 29 min to complete
Apex and Enchanted Forest Trail Loop
Golden
Hiking Level: Moderate
30 minutes from Denver | 3.6 miles | 1 hrs 30 min to complete
Green Mountain West Trail
Boulder
Hiking Level: Moderate
40 minutes from Denver | 4 miles | 1 hr 54 min to complete
Evergreen Mountain Trail
Evergreen
Hiking Level: Moderate
50 minutes from Denver | 4.2 miles | 2 hrs to complete
Windy Saddle Lookout Mountain Trail
Golden
Hiking Level: Moderate
35 minutes from Denver | 4.4 miles | 2 hrs 10 min to complete
Mount Galbraith Loop via Cedar Gulch Trail
Golden
Hiking Level: Moderate
30 minutes from Denver | 4.7 miles | 2 hrs 20 min to complete
Royal Arch Trail via Chautauqua Trailhead
Boulder
Hiking Level: Hard
30 minutes from Denver | 3.4 miles | 2 hrs 30 min to complete
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