The snow is melting, winter is over, spring has sprung and it’s time to lace up the hiking boots. No, there’s not always time to get high up in the Rockies, but plenty of far out trails that aren’t so far from DU are waiting to be trekked. Trails are listed by distance from DU, ranging from 16 to 40 miles.
Enchanted Forest Loop – Apex Park
For a fairly long hike with moderate terrain, embark on the Enchanted Forest Loop. It’s just as magical as it sounds, featuring miniature waterfalls and soothing landscapes. This area used to be a jackpot during Colorado’s Gold Rush days, bringing historical significance to the loop as well. Trot down the Apex Trail for 2.5 miles, turn left onto the Enchanted Mesa Trail for 1.3 miles, then turn right back onto the Apex trail. Total distance is 5.6 miles.
Bear Creek Trail – Lair O’ the Bear Park
The Bear Creek Trail is perfect for a quick getaway from Denver. It runs 6.5 miles between the Little Park lot to the Pence Park lot, but Little Park’s trailhead is the way to go. Hike as far as needed, and simply turn around when the time is right. Continuing through will obviously lead to being stuck at Pence Park and hiking 6.5 miles back. Either way, one mile down the trail is the must-see Dunafon Castle, a beautiful structure from 1941 that hosts various events such as weddings and charity benefits. After the castle, the trail gets steeper and less desirable for those out for a moderate day. There aren’t any sweeping views to be found on this trail, but it does have plenty of shade and riverside spots to cool down. Total distance is two miles (to Dunafon Castle and back).
Mule Deer Trail – Golden Gate State Park
Ambitious hikers looking for a day long adventure should take the Mule Deer Trail. This diverse hike features Aspen-covered meadows and steep switchbacks up to Panorama Point, offering wide-open views of the continental divide. Amongst the countless visible mountains, several “fourteeners” such as Torrey’s Peak, Gray’s Peak, Mount Evans and Long’s Peak can be seen from observation decks. Directions are more complex for this hike because it’s quite lengthy, so hop online and lay down a solid plan with a prepared group. Total distance is 11 miles.
Meadow View Trail Loop – Elk Meadow Park
Wildlife viewing is nearly a sure thing on the Meadow View Trail Loop. Packs of elk and deer run through meadows along the route frequently. DU students won’t see much of that near campus, so the hike is more than worth it for a rare experience. Starting from the Stagecoach parking area, take the Meadow View Trail for three quarters of a mile then split right onto Elk Ridge Trail. After a half-mile, hang another right on Sleepy S Trail and continue for about a mile back to the parking lot. Total distance is 2.6 miles.
Devil’s Head Lookout Trail – Pikes National Forest
To see a historical lookout with hundred mile views, head up to the Devil’s Head Fire Lookout. The trail is a 1.4-mile climb that leads to a set of 143 stairs, which lead all the way up to the top. Trudging up these stairs and into the sky is a wonderful and gratifying way to reach the summit. The tower is also said to be the last one standing in Colorado, making this one of the state’s most unique hikes. Total distance is 2.8 miles.
Before embarking on any of these trails, go online first for more detailed directions and check out current trail conditions. Planning ahead is the most important phase of any outdoor activity, especially when heading into unfamiliar territory. Enough serious talk. Now pack up some bags with a group of fellow adventurers and go explore what Colorado has to offer within a 40-mile radius of campus.
