Hiking
If Golden, Colorado, hiking isn’t already on your bucket list, it may be time to add it. Between the gorgeous mountain vistas and natural seclusion that Golden’s trails have to offer, hiking here has the potential to change your view of the world – literally.
Stroll Close By
Listen to the flow of the water beside you and the leaves crunching beneath your feet as you make your way along Clear Creek Trail, an easy, paved, two-mile excursion along the creek and underneath shady trees. It runs through the heart of historic downtown Golden and provides a natural oasis to hikers, bikers, skateboarders, rollerbladers, and strollers.
Golden’s city and recreational parks let you enjoy the natural surroundings of Golden without ever having to leave downtown. The city has plenty of parks and sports complexes with over 250 acres of green space and trails for you and the family to stroll together and soak up the fresh mountain air.
Meander up the Mesa
For more of a vertical adventure, hike one of the moderately challenging trails of North Table Mountain to the top of the mesa the shorter way or take in the panoramic views with a longer hike to the top. Avid climbers will love the Golden Cliffs Trail for its rocky terrain and challenging climbing routes. It’s also ideal for those who want to enjoy a shorter hike.
Whichever North Table Mountain trail you choose, you're sure to be rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountainsides and the terrain far below. Parts of the mountain are closed during the spring season for wildlife protection, but most trails remain open year-round.
Hike or bike South Table Mountain to experience more than 13 miles of trails and the beauty of the Front Range. Only minutes from downtown Golden, South Table Mountain is perfect for a day spent adventuring, soaking up the panoramic views, and observing local wildlife.
Hike & Discover Prehistoric Gems
Designated as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service, the Triceratops Trail is a family-friendly gravel hike that spans 1.5 miles. While hiking this trail, considered an outdoor museum and open year-round, imagine what life might have been like millions of years ago as you take in the scenic sights along the trail’s sandstone walls and surroundings.
Stops along the hike include a look at clay mining and traces and tracks from prehistoric invertebrates, dinosaurs, and other animals that left quite the impression.
A Hiker’s Dream
One of the best places to hike in Golden, CO, is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, the most diverse and expansive option in town. With 35 miles of trails spanning 12,000 acres, the park is a hiker and wildlife watcher’s dream. Come when the aspen tree groves light up in golden hues during the fall months or when its wildflowers bloom to life in the spring. During the early summer, the whole park turns green with verdant life, and in the winter, it becomes a winter wonderland for lovers of cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
There are many hiking options in Golden for every skill level and desired challenge most any time of year. Before any hiking adventure, bring comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure – and we’ll see you at the top.
