Unusual Things To Do In Denver Colorado – Your Guide
You’ve seen the travel blogs. They all point to the same spots in Denver: hike Red Rocks, stroll the 16th Street Mall, and tour a few dozen craft breweries. And while those are great, you’re looking for something more—an experience that goes beyond the typical tourist checklist.
I promise this guide is different. It’s built for the adventurer who wants to connect with the outdoors, even within city limits, and build real, practical skills along the way. We’re going to help you live outdoors smarter, right here in the Mile High City.
In this article, you’ll discover a curated list of genuinely unusual things to do in denver colorado. We’ll cover everything from urban bouldering and river kayaking to foraging classes and hidden historical trails, all with a focus on safety, sustainability, and self-reliance.
Beyond the Brewery: Urban Adventures with an Outdoor Twist
You don’t need to drive two hours into the mountains to find an adventure. Denver itself is packed with unique opportunities to test your skills, get your heart pumping, and see the city from a completely new perspective. This is your practical guide for getting started.
H3: Test Your Grip at the Confluence Park Bouldering Walls
Tucked away where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, Confluence Park features several man-made bouldering walls. These aren’t your typical indoor gym routes; they offer a fantastic, free-to-use space to practice movement and problem-solving on unique textures.
It’s an excellent spot for both beginners and seasoned climbers to get a session in without the gym fee. For safety, we recommend bringing a friend to act as a spotter and a portable crash pad like the Metolius Session II to soften any falls. Remember to be courteous to others using the space.
H3: Paddle the South Platte River Through Downtown
See the skyline from a whole new angle by kayaking the South Platte River. This urban waterway offers a surprisingly peaceful float right through the heart of the city. It’s a perfect introduction to moving water for aspiring paddlers.
You can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards from outfitters like Confluence Kayaks & Ski right near the put-in. Always wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), even if you’re a strong swimmer. Check river flow rates before you go; high water can be dangerous, while low water can mean scraping the bottom.
H3: Navigate by Starlight at Chamberlin Observatory
Understanding the night sky is a foundational outdoor skill. Long before GPS, explorers used constellations to find their way. You can connect with this timeless practice at the historic Chamberlin Observatory, located on the University of Denver campus.
During their public nights, you can peer through the massive, 20-inch Alvan Clark-Saegmuller refractor telescope built in 1894. It’s an inspiring and humbling experience that reminds us of the vast wilderness above our heads and a great way to learn about the stars you’ll see from your campsite.
Your In-Depth Unusual Things to Do in Denver Colorado Guide for the Front Range
Just a short drive from downtown, the foothills of the Front Range offer a playground of geological wonders, hidden history, and unexpected ecosystems. Here are a few unusual things to do in denver colorado that get you out of the city and into the wild without a major expedition.
H3: Walk with Giants at Dinosaur Ridge
Forget a simple hike; think of this as a self-guided paleontological expedition. Dinosaur Ridge is a national natural landmark where you can literally place your hands in the fossilized footprints of dinosaurs that roamed here 150 million years ago.
The 1.5-mile paved path is lined with interpretive signs that explain the geological layers and the types of tracks you’re seeing. Wear a sturdy pair of walking shoes, like the Merrell Moab 3, and bring plenty of water. The exposure can be intense, even on a cooler day. This is a perfect family-friendly adventure that feels like a trip back in time.
H3: Discover the Hidden Castle at Lair o’ the Bear Park
Lair o’ the Bear is a popular Jefferson County park, but most visitors stick to the main creekside trail. For a truly unique discovery, take the short, slightly uphill side trail to the ruins of the Dunafon Castle’s summer home.
This stone structure offers a glimpse into local history and a quiet spot to rest away from the crowds. It’s a great micro-adventure that teaches an important lesson for any explorer: always be curious about the side trails. You never know what you might find.
H3: Fly Fish the Urban Waters of Clear Creek
World-class fishing just 20 minutes from downtown? Absolutely. The stretch of Clear Creek that runs through Golden offers a fantastic and often overlooked opportunity to catch Brown and Rainbow Trout. The accessibility makes it perfect for a quick after-work session.
You’ll need a valid Colorado fishing license, which you can purchase online. A simple setup with a 4 or 5-weight fly rod is perfect. Try using classic patterns like a Parachute Adams or a Pheasant Tail Nymph. Practice catch-and-release and proper fish handling to protect this valuable resource for future anglers.
Building Self-Reliance: Skill-Building Workshops Near Denver
The best outdoor tool you can have is knowledge. Denver is a hub for learning practical, hands-on skills that will boost your confidence whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a transition to a more self-sufficient lifestyle. Investing in these skills is one of the most rewarding and unusual things to do in denver colorado.
H3: Learn to Forage with a Wild Edibles Class
Discover the natural pantry growing in the foothills and parks around the city. Several local guides and organizations, like the Colorado Mycological Society, offer workshops on identifying wild edible and medicinal plants.
This is a skill that requires extreme caution and expert guidance. The number one rule of foraging is: if you cannot identify it with 100% certainty, do not eat it. A guided class is the only safe way to start learning the difference between a tasty mushroom and its toxic look-alike.
H3: Master Navigation with an Orienteering Course
Put down the GPS and learn the timeless art of map and compass navigation. The Rocky Mountain Orienteering Club hosts events and clinics for all skill levels in local parks. This is a fundamental survival skill that’s not only practical but also incredibly fun.
Learning to read a topographic map and use a compass, like the reliable Suunto A-10, will make you a safer and more confident backcountry traveler. It turns any hike into an engaging mental and physical challenge.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Exploration: Best Practices
Part of being a smart outdoor enthusiast is knowing how to explore responsibly. The benefits of unusual things to do in denver colorado include a deeper connection to place, and with that comes a responsibility to protect it. This is your care guide for adventuring with a conscience.
H3: Apply “Leave No Trace” Principles in Urban Parks
The seven Leave No Trace principles aren’t just for deep wilderness. They are just as important in busy urban green spaces like City Park or Washington Park. This means packing out everything you pack in, including food scraps like orange peels.
It also means respecting wildlife, from the geese at the pond to the squirrels in the trees. Keep your distance and never feed them. Being a good steward of our shared spaces is one of the most important eco-friendly unusual things to do in denver colorado.
H3: Give Back with a Trail Maintenance Day
Want a truly unique and impactful outdoor experience? Volunteer for a day of trail work. Organizations like Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) host projects all over the state, including many in the Denver metro area.
You’ll learn how sustainable trails are built, meet like-minded people, and feel a deep sense of accomplishment knowing you helped preserve the trails you love. It’s hard work, but it’s one of the most rewarding ways to connect with the local landscape.
Common Problems When Seeking Offbeat Adventures (and How to Solve Them)
Venturing off the beaten path comes with its own set of challenges. Anticipating these common problems with unusual things to do in denver colorado will ensure your adventures are safe, enjoyable, and stress-free.
H3: Problem: Overcrowding at “Secret” Spots
The moment a hidden gem gets shared online, it risks being loved to death. To avoid crowds, plan your visit for a weekday or go very early in the morning on a weekend. The golden hour light is better anyway!
Always have a Plan B and even a Plan C. If you arrive and the trailhead is packed, don’t add to the problem. Be flexible and ready to explore your backup location. The best adventure is often the one you didn’t plan for.
H3: Problem: Altitude Sickness on “Easy” Hikes
Remember, Denver is a mile high (5,280 feet), and the nearby foothills are even higher. If you’re visiting from a lower elevation, you can feel the effects of altitude even on a short walk. Headaches, nausea, and fatigue are common symptoms.
The solution is simple: hydration. Drink more water than you think you need, starting the day before your activity. Take it easy your first couple of days to acclimatize, and don’t push yourself too hard. Listen to your body.
H3: Problem: Unpredictable Colorado Weather
There’s a saying on the Front Range: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” A sunny morning can turn into a hail-filled afternoon in the blink of an eye. Never trust a perfectly blue sky.
The key is layering. Always pack a waterproof rain shell, like an Outdoor Research Foray II, even if there’s no rain in the forecast. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer and bring an insulating mid-layer like a fleece. This system allows you to adapt to any condition the mountains throw at you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Unusual Things to Do in Denver Colorado
Do I need a car for these unusual Denver activities?
Many of the in-city activities like Confluence Park are easily accessible via public transit (RTD), bike, or rideshare. For the Front Range locations, a car provides the most flexibility. However, services like the Bustang can get you to hubs like Golden, putting you within walking distance of Clear Creek and nearby trails.
What’s the best time of year to explore Denver’s outdoors?
Every season offers something unique! Summer is perfect for water activities and high-country hiking. Fall brings stunning aspen colors and cooler temperatures. Winter opens up opportunities for urban snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the foothills. Spring is ideal for watching the plains and foothills come alive with wildflowers.
Are these activities beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. Every activity on this list was chosen with beginners and intermediates in mind. The goal is to build confidence safely. The most important thing is to know your personal limits, prepare with the right gear and information, and never be afraid to turn back if you feel uncomfortable.
How can I find local groups for these activities?
Connecting with a community is a great way to learn. Check out websites like Meetup.com for groups focused on hiking, kayaking, or climbing. Local Facebook groups can also be a great resource. Don’t forget to visit local outdoor shops like REI, which often host classes and have community bulletin boards.
Denver is so much more than a gateway to the Rockies; it’s an outdoor destination in its own right. By looking beyond the obvious, you can have experiences that are not only fun but also build your skills and deepen your appreciation for the natural world.
These unusual adventures are about more than just a photo op—they’re about learning, growing, and becoming a more capable and conscious explorer. So grab your daypack, fill your water bottle, and get ready to see a side of the Mile High City that most people miss.
Explore confidently, stay safe, and have fun out there!
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