As a new resident of the Denver area, it’s definitely been an adjustment to the hiking life. It seems as though everyone is consistently doing multiple hikes a week, and I’ve barely been able to find time for one per month. Regardless, here are my favorites of the year so far.

All of these options are within about a 35 minute drive of downtown Denver.

FLatiron Vista – Boulder

This was my most recent hike, and it turned out to be a nice leisurely stroll with a great view of the Flatirons and surrounding area. I made a loop out of Flatiron Vista N, Community Ditch Trail and Greenbelt Plateau Trail, and it was mostly flat and very open. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and lots of water because there isn’t much shade and the sun can get relentless. Also, watch out for rattlesnakes. I didn’t see any, but it seemed like the perfect trail for them to be lurking by.

Mount Galbraith – Golden

Mount Galbraith is probably my favorite hike on this list, with excellent views of not only the Rockies but also of Golden, Denver and the flatlands far to the east. I did Mount Galbraith Loop via Cedar Gulch Trail and it was a little challenging with how continuously steep it is, but the views easily make it worth it. I went on a Friday and it was a super relaxing and peaceful time since there were only a few other people on the trail.

Rattlesnake Gulch Loop – Eldorado Canyon

Despite the name, no snakes were seen on this hike. Rattlesnake Gulch Loop is a very scenic hike with panoramic views looking east and west, and it also takes you past a nice mountain railroad spot. If you’re lucky, maybe a train will ride past. The trail can get pretty steep and tiring at times, but nothing too bad.

Eldorado Canyon overall is a sweet spot to spend an afternoon, with a nice river to bask in and some great spots for a picnic.

Royal Arch Loop – Boulder

This is probably the most rigorous hike on this list, just since the steep trail can get pretty slippery with all of the loose rock. That being said, the views are easily worthwhile since the hike takes you to a natural stone arch high up in the Flatirons overlooking Boulder. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll pass some mountain climbers on your way up.

I definitely recommend doing this hike on a weekday, since it can get pretty busy on the weekends. Also, drop some parking strategies in the comments because Boulder’s pay-to-park system is the definition of insufferable.

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Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this post, and if you did, drop a like and follow the blog for a new post every Wednesday. Also, I’d love any and all trail recommendations, so drop those in the comments below. While you’re there, click on the social media icons for more Boarding Pass Blog travel content!

Have a great week!