Things To Do In Denver And Surrounding Areas – An Outdoor Adventurer’S
You’ve arrived in Denver, the Mile High City, and the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains are calling your name. But a quick search for things to do in denver and surrounding areas leaves you with a dizzying list of tourist traps and vague suggestions. You’re not looking for a simple sightseeing trip; you want a real adventure.
I promise this guide is different. We’re cutting through the noise to give you a curated list of authentic outdoor experiences, from breathtaking hikes to skill-building challenges. This is more than a list—it’s a practical plan for exploring safely, confidently, and responsibly.
In this comprehensive things to do in denver and surrounding areas guide, you’ll discover how to handle the altitude, what essential gear to pack, the best trails for every skill level, and how to practice sustainable adventure so these wild places stay wild.
Before You Go: Essential Tips for High-Altitude Adventure
Success in the Rockies begins before you even touch the trail. Denver sits at 5,280 feet, and most nearby adventures are even higher. Ignoring this simple fact is one of the most common problems with things to do in denver and surrounding areas.
Proper preparation is non-negotiable. It’s the difference between an unforgettable trip and a miserable, or even dangerous, one.
Understanding Altitude Sickness (and How to Avoid It)
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Symptoms range from a mild headache and nausea to more severe issues. Your best defense is acclimatization.
Spend your first day or two in Denver with only light activity. Drink water constantly—far more than you think you need. We recommend carrying a 3-liter hydration reservoir like a CamelBak StoAway. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals for the first 24-48 hours.
Packing for Colorado’s Unpredictable Weather
Mountain weather changes in a flash. A sunny morning can turn into a cold, rainy, or even snowy afternoon, even in July. The key is a smart layering system.
- Base Layer: A moisture-wicking shirt (merino wool or synthetic, never cotton).
- Mid Layer: An insulating fleece or a puffy jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof shell, such as the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket.
Always pack rain gear, a warm hat, and gloves, even if the forecast looks perfect. This is one of the most critical things to do in denver and surrounding areas tips we can offer.
Leave No Trace: Your Guide to Sustainable Exploration
As adventurers, we are stewards of the land. Practicing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles ensures the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness endures. These are the core of sustainable things to do in denver and surrounding areas.
The seven principles are simple: plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly (pack it in, pack it out), leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors. Embracing these eco-friendly things to do in denver and surrounding areas protects the places we love.
Accessible Day Hikes Near Denver for All Skill Levels
You don’t have to venture far from the city to find incredible trails. The Denver foothills offer a perfect training ground to test your legs and lungs before tackling higher peaks. Here are a few of our favorites.
For Beginners: Red Rocks Park and Trading Post Trail
Just 30 minutes from downtown, Red Rocks offers more than its world-famous amphitheater. The 1.4-mile Trading Post Trail is a gentle loop that winds through stunning red rock formations.
It’s an ideal first hike to see how you feel at a slightly higher elevation (around 6,400 feet). Wear sturdy shoes like the Merrell Moab 3, as the trail can be rocky in spots.
For a Moderate Challenge: Mount Falcon Park
Ready for more elevation gain? The trails at Mount Falcon Park deliver big views of Denver and the high peaks beyond. The Castle Trail to the Walker Home Ruins is a 3.8-mile round trip with about 800 feet of climbing.
This is a great place to use trekking poles, like the Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork, to help with the steeper sections and take some strain off your knees on the descent.
For a Taste of the Alpine: St. Mary’s Glacier
Located about an hour from Denver, St. Mary’s Glacier offers a chance to experience an alpine environment without a grueling all-day trek. The trail to the base of the permanent snowfield is short but steep (1.5 miles round trip).
Even in summer, the snowfield can be icy. We highly recommend packing microspikes like Kahtoola MICROspikes for secure traction if you plan to walk on the snow itself. This is a pro tip for how to things to do in denver and surrounding areas safely above the treeline.
The Ultimate Scenic Drives for RVs, Campervans, and Overlanders
For those traveling on wheels, the roads around Denver are destinations in themselves. These drives offer stunning vistas, access to trailheads, and a true sense of Rocky Mountain freedom.
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: A Rocky Mountain Classic
This 55-mile route connects the historic casino towns of Black Hawk and Central City with the mountain hub of Estes Park. It offers non-stop views of the Continental Divide and is particularly spectacular in the fall when the aspen trees turn golden.
There are numerous pull-offs and National Forest access roads perfect for a lunch break or finding a dispersed campsite. Always use an app like iOverlander or The Dyrt to confirm camping regulations.
Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway: Drive to Over 14,000 Feet
Formerly Mount Evans, this is the highest paved road in North America, climbing to a dizzying 14,130 feet. The views are otherworldly, with chances to see mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
Important: A timed-entry reservation is required. The road is narrow and has steep drop-offs, so it’s not for the faint of heart. Vehicle length restrictions are also in place, so check the official recreation.gov site before you go.
Your Things to Do in Denver and Surrounding Areas Guide to Water Sports
Adventure in Colorado isn’t limited to the trails. The area’s reservoirs and rivers provide a cool escape during the summer months and a different way to experience the landscape.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) at Chatfield State Park
The calm, expansive waters of Chatfield Reservoir are perfect for a relaxing day of paddleboarding or kayaking. It’s a fantastic way to work on your balance and core strength while soaking in the sun.
You can rent gear right at the marina if you don’t have your own. Remember to wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and apply sunscreen generously—the sun is much stronger at this altitude.
Whitewater Rafting on Clear Creek
For a shot of adrenaline, head to Idaho Springs for a guided whitewater rafting trip on Clear Creek. With sections ranging from beginner-friendly floats to intense Class IV rapids, there’s a trip for every comfort level.
Going with a reputable guide service is essential for safety. They provide all the gear, including wetsuits, helmets, and expert instruction. This is one of the benefits of things to do in denver and surrounding areas with professional support.
Building Your Skills: Camping and Survival Practice Near the City
OutwardLab is all about helping you become more capable and self-reliant. The areas around Denver are a perfect classroom for honing your outdoor skills.
First-Time Camping at Golden Gate Canyon State Park
This park offers a fantastic, low-stakes environment to test your camping setup. With well-maintained, drive-up campsites at Reverend’s Ridge campground, you can practice pitching your tent and cooking outdoors with the security of your vehicle nearby.
It’s the perfect place to dial in your sleep system or try out a new camp stove before heading deeper into the backcountry. Think of it as a dress rehearsal for bigger adventures.
Navigation Practice in the Lost Creek Wilderness
Ready to move beyond well-marked trails? The rolling granite domes and pine forests of the Lost Creek Wilderness are a great place to practice off-trail navigation. This is where a good old-fashioned map and compass, like a Suunto MC-2, become essential.
Use a GPS app like Gaia GPS as a backup, but focus on reading terrain features, taking bearings, and building confidence in your analog skills. Always tell someone your route and expected return time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Denver and Surrounding Areas
What is the biggest mistake people make when visiting Denver for outdoor activities?
The most common and dangerous mistake is underestimating the altitude and overexerting on the first day. Give your body time to adjust. Drink plenty of water, get adequate rest, and start with easier, lower-elevation activities before tackling a 14er.
Do I need a special vehicle to access these places?
Most of the locations mentioned in this guide, like Red Rocks, Mount Falcon, and the main roads in state parks, are easily accessible with a standard 2WD vehicle. However, some forest service roads or more remote trailheads may require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Always check road conditions before you go, especially in spring and fall.
When is the best time of year for hiking near Denver?
For high-elevation and alpine trails (above 11,000 feet), the best window is typically from late June to mid-September when the trails are free of snow. Lower-elevation foothills trails can often be hiked year-round, though you may need microspikes for icy spots in the winter.
What are some eco-friendly things to do in Denver and surrounding areas?
Practicing Leave No Trace is the most impactful eco-friendly action you can take. This includes packing out all your trash, staying on designated trails to prevent erosion, never feeding wildlife, and using a reusable water bottle like a Nalgene to reduce plastic waste. Supporting local conservation groups and businesses that prioritize sustainability are other great options.
Denver is your basecamp for a lifetime of adventure. It’s a place where you can step out of the city and into true wilderness within an hour. By preparing properly, respecting the environment, and starting within your limits, you can unlock the very best of the Rocky Mountains.
Use this guide as your starting point. Now you have the knowledge and the things to do in denver and surrounding areas best practices to explore it all safely and confidently. The mountains are waiting. Get out there and start your journey.
- Things To Do With Kids In London – The Adventurer’S Guide To Urban - November 20, 2025
- Fun Things To Do In Orlando Florida With Kids – Your Guide To - November 20, 2025
- Free Things To Do In London With Kids – An Adventurer’S Guide To Urban - November 20, 2025