Pending another snowpocalypse, winter is finally thawing out and we re itching to get back on the trails and do some hiking. While 14ers aren’t quite ready for us however, there are loads of beautiful, low elevation hikes which you can do today. Plus can be close to Denver, perfect for getting your path feet wet. But if you’re looking to jump into it, then we rounded up some from the warmest corners of Colorado. Whether you want to drive to a trailhead near or far, we have loads of hikes to get you back out there.
Note: While these hikes are in lower elevations, ice is a possibility depending on factors like the weather or time of day. Bring a set of microspikes just!
1. Waterton Canyon
Photo by Taylor Sienkiewicz.
Distance: 4.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Evergreen
The Lowdown: Evergreen is just one of those great in-between places where you feel like you’re from the hills –but the snow isn as extreme. This trail leads you up hills to views, getting your heart pumping a bit as you come out of hibernation.
3. Flagstaff Trail
Winter landscape of the Flatirons at sunrise, Rocky Mountains, Boulder. (via Thinkstock)
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Boulder
The Lowdown: While somewhat muddy, Flagstaff Trail is a great alternative to a number of the hikes around the flatirons and ends in a lookout point. You may also continue on paths that are connected if you wish to keep going.
4. Carpenter Peak Trail
Photo courtesy of AllTrails.
Distance: 7.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Staunton State Park
The Lowdown: You may still need grip as it s shaded, but the views at the end are worthwhile. Once you reach Bear Paw Trail, the loop takes you to Pikes Peak Overlook and Catamount Overlook, which offer 180-degree views of surrounding mountains.
6. High Dune Trail
Photo by Taylor Sienkiewicz.
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Pike National Forest
The Lowdown: Popular in the fall because of its changing aspens, Kenosha Pass is also a great hiking spot in the spring–plus, it’s less crowded. Weave your way through groves of aspens which are just beginning to bloom before coming up upon open-expanse viewpoints.
8. Ute Canyon Trail
Photo by Taylor Sienkiewicz.
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Lowdown: Canyons are always warm right? Well Black Canyon sure is. Although the park on shorter paths, but make sure you hit on Warner Point Nature Trail, which has arguably the best view in the park.
10. Hunt Lake Trail
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