Spring is a tricky season here in colorful Colorado. One day it’s snowing thick, wet flakes, and the next it’s clear skies and sunny. The warmer days convince us that hiking season is here, leaving us to discover muddy trailheads that quickly turn into icy chutes the higher they climb. Rest assured, there are a few hikes around the front range that are perfect for springtime adventures and won’t leave hikers with wet socks.
Located just outside of Denver’s metro area, this trail leads hikers through monolithic red rocks that stretch toward the sky. Catch beautiful panoramic views of Denver and the Foothills around each bend. Wild grasses and flowers begin to emerge in late spring, making this a colorful hike through nature.
This 3.1 mile out-and-back hike is accessible year-round, weather permitting. The first quarter mile is a moderately sloped, shady switch back that can hold on to snow a bit longer than the rest of the trail. Gingerly push past this to arrive at a gentle, forested trail leading to alpine tundra. Climb the last leg up to a rocky outcropping for panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. It may be windy at the top so bring a jacket.
While this park sees a lot of tourist traffic in the summer, it’s a great place to escape to during spring. The arid Colorado Springs climate keeps moisture and mud at bay and well-maintained trails are easily hiked. Some of Colorado’s best loved rock formations flank 15 miles of scenic trails around the park.
Spring is actually the best time to get out on this system of trails as rattlesnakes also enjoy the hot desert climate in Lyons and begin to make their appearance known as summer heats up. Lichen Loop is a hikers-only trail, while other trail systems allow for mountain bikers and horseback riders. Start early to avoid potential afternoon thunder storms and finish the hike with a beer at Oskar Blues in Lyons.
The northeast corner of our state is often overlooked but is one of the most magical places in the west. The Pawnee grasslands provide hikers with views of the Rocky Mountains and bring them right up next to giant buttes that look otherworldly. The terrain remains relatively dry, but storms can come quickly, so short hikes are best done in the morning. Google map ‘Pawnee grasslands trailhead’ for the most direct route to the accessible portion of this high plains haven.
Down in Littleton, this recreational trail is part of the larger Colorado Trail, a 567 mile trail system that stretches from Denver to Durango. This 6.5 mile out-and-back is a bit shorter and takes hikers along the South Platte River to the dam. Throughout spring, visitors may spot bighorn sheep and enjoy Colorado in full bloom.
Despite its secluded location, Alderfer/Three Sisters is easy to reach from Longmont. The park’s lower elevation makes it less likely to get muddy or icy in early spring. Hikes through this recreational area bring hikers through a variety of topography. Forested trails, stunning vistas, and unique rock formations make this the perfect day-hike right from your backdoor.
Just an hour south, near Franktown, Colorado, Castlewood Canyon receives a ton of sun and is lower in elevation, making it the perfect setting for a dry, easy springtime hike. Get back into the swing of things with a jaunt through this rocky canyon and experience Colorado’s abundant foliage as it shakes off the winter blues.
Between the close of ski season and the beginning of the warm, Colorado summer exists a gray area that demands Front Range residents get creative with weekend activities. These springtime hikes offer the perfect relief for those of us itching to get back into the mountains and get in summer hiking shape.
Situated at the edge of Longmont, VerraWest residents enjoy unobstructed mountain views, easy access to Main Street, and a short drive to the Rocky Mountains. Call today to learn more about Longmont’s newest luxury apartments.