Easy Winter Hikes Along Colorado’s Front Range
Winter hiking in Colorado’s Front Range offers a peaceful retreat from the busy summer months, allowing you to experience the serene beauty of snow-dusted trails without the crowds. There’s something truly magical about hiking through a winter wonderland, with the stillness of the snow-covered landscape and crisp mountain air.
Where is the Front Range?
Named for its location at the forefront of the Rockies, the Front Range in Colorado refers to the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains and the adjacent foothills, extending from southern Wyoming to central Colorado. Major cities along the Front Range include, Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo.
Proximity to Denver and Trail Prep
One of the best things about hiking in the Front Range is how close the trails are to Denver, making it easy to escape the city. However, before you head out, always check the weather and trail conditions. Recent snow may require snowshoes, while icy conditions might call for microspikes. Tailoring your gear to the current conditions will help ensure a safe and comfortable hike.
And don’t forget to dress warmly! Waterproof boots, insulated socks, gloves, and hats are essential to keep you toasty during your winter adventure. With the right preparation, winter hiking in the Front Range can be a magical and unforgettable experience. Here are some easy hikes you must check out this year.
1. Evergreen Lake
Where: Evergreen, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Easy
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/evergreen-evergreen-lake-trail
Evergreen is a prime destination for winter time activities in the Front Range for local Coloradans. While it’s best known for its picturesque ice skating on Evergreen Lake, the area offers much more than just skating. There is a well maintained path that loops around the entirety of the lake, that’s easily accessible for all ages. This trail is more of a casual walk, as opposed to a hike, where you can soak up the idyllic winter charm of this cute little mountain town. I would definitely recommend stopping at EverBean right across the lake and grabbing your favorite warm drink before you hit the trail. Keep an eye out for local wildlife — elk are known to frequent the area.
2. Mount Falcon Park
Where: Morrison, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Easy
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/mount-falcon-lookout-trail
Located just south of Red Rocks Amphitheater, Mount Falcon Park grants hikers breathtaking views with minimal effort. I especially loved all the lookout points this trail has to offer, offering some great westward views of the Rockies and views of Denver to the East. This trail is particularly unique because it takes you to some old castle ruins at the end of the trail. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a hike that delivers on views and character, Mount Falcon is a must-visit spot that perfectly captures the essence of Colorado’s Front Range.
3. Chautauqua Park
Where: Boulder, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Easy
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/enchanted-mesa-bluebell-spur-and-chautauqua-loop
Chautauqua Park is a beloved hub for easy winter hikes along the foothills of the Rockies, offering both accessibility and stunning scenery. One of its most iconic features is the Flatirons—those striking, jagged rock formations that stand as a dramatic backdrop to Boulder. In my opinion, the Flatirons provide some of the most unique and awe-inspiring views in the entire Front Range, especially when dusted with snow in the winter months. The park boasts a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, from gentle walks to more challenging routes that take you closer to the towering rock faces.
4. Clear Creek Peaks to Plains Trail
Where: Golden, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Easy
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/peaks-to-plains-trail-east
The Peaks to Plains Trail is an absolute gem in Golden, offering a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. This fully paved trail winds alongside Clear Creek, providing a peaceful and picturesque path that leads deep into the canyon. For those looking to add a bit more adventure to their outing, the trail offers an exciting option: crossing the bridge to access the Welch Ditch Trail. This unpaved path offers a more traditional hiking experience, with a mix of terrain and opportunities to explore the area's rich history, as it follows the remnants of an old irrigation ditch. The Peaks to Plains Trail is ideal for anyone looking for an easy walk this winter without travelling far from Denver.
5. Buffalo Bill Trail
Where: Golden, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Easy
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/buffalo-bill-grave-site-and-lookout-mountain-summit
The Buffalo Bill Trail is as easygoing as it gets, making it a fantastic option for out-of-towners looking to enjoy great views without committing to a lengthy or strenuous hike. The trail offers a gentle, well-maintained path that meanders through the scenic foothills, providing beautiful vistas of the surrounding landscape. It’s the perfect choice for families, casual hikers, or anyone seeking a relaxed introduction to Colorado’s natural beauty. After your hike, take a moment to explore the museum and even stop by Buffalo Bill's gravesite, which boasts some of the best panoramic views in the region.
6. Genesee Park - Beaver Brook Trail
Where: Golden, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Moderate
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/beaver-brook-chavez-trail-loop
The Beaver Brook Trail in Genesee Park is the perfect escape for a winter woodland hike. There’s something truly magical about walking through a snow-covered forest—the way the world seems quieter, the fresh scent of pine in the crisp air, and the soft crunch of snow underfoot. The snow-laden trees create a picturesque canopy, and if you’re lucky, you might spot wildlife like deer. The trail is moderately challenging, with enough variety to keep things interesting while still being approachable for most hikers.
7. South Table Mountain - Olivine Trail
Where: Golden, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Moderate
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/olivine-trail-loop
The Olivine Loop Trail on South Table Mountain offers a slightly more challenging experience compared to the other hikes listed, but it's still a manageable 1.5-mile trek. What makes this trail special is the flat terrain of South Table Mountain itself, which stretches about 3 miles across the mesa. The Olivine Trail, in particular, offers spectacular vistas of the charming mountain town of Golden, with the majestic Front Range as a stunning backdrop. This trail is especially magical during sunset, when the soft light bathes the landscape in warm tones, making it an ideal spot for an evening hike.
8. Waterton Canyon
Where: Littleton, Colorado
Trail difficulty: Easy to moderate (depending how far you decide to walk)
AllTrails link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/waterton-canyon-trail
I can’t believe I just discovered this trail! Although popular among locals, it’s a hidden gem among tourists and out of towners. The Waterton Canyon Trail is an easy out-and-back road that takes you to the Stronia Springs Dam, if you choose to walk the entire trail length. Like the Clear Creek Trail, it offers a flat canyon experience, but it’s not paved, giving it a more rugged feel. The trail follows a gentle incline along the South Platte River, offering stunning views without being too strenuous. What really makes this trail stand out is the frequent sightings of bighorn sheep along the route, usually around the 2.5 mile mark. It’s a perfect spot for winter hiking, too—easy to navigate even with snow on the ground.
