With 300+ days of sunshine a year, Denver is one of the best cities in the U.S. for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hiking in summer, skiing in winter, or biking and kayaking during the warmer months, the Mile High City and its nearby mountain towns provide endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Here’s your guide to the best outdoor activities in Denver and Colorado—perfect for newcomers, families, and adventure-seekers of all levels.
For those seeking the best outdoor activities in Denver, exploring the city’s vast parks and natural spaces is a must.
Discover the Best Outdoor Activities in Denver
During your visit, don’t miss out on the best outdoor activities in Denver that can be enjoyed year-round.
Hiking at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks is world-famous as a concert venue, but it’s also one of the best hiking destinations near Denver. The Trading Post Trail is a 1.4-mile scenic loop surrounded by towering red sandstone formations and sweeping mountain views. The Geologic Overlook Trail offers a shorter option, great for sunrise hikes and family outings.
Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Make sure to experience the best outdoor activities in Denver while enjoying the stunning views.
City Park – Jogging, Biking, and Picnics
Located in the heart of Denver, City Park spans 330 acres and offers open green space, jogging paths, and biking trails. The park also provides some of the best skyline views of downtown Denver against the Rocky Mountains.
– Summer: Rent paddle boats on Ferril Lake.
– Fall: Capture Instagram-worthy photos of the foliage.
– Year-round: Visit the Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature & Science, both located within the park.
City Park is one of the top spots for the best outdoor activities in Denver, providing ample space for recreation.
Winter Sports at Echo Mountain
Just 50 minutes from downtown Denver, Echo Mountain is the closest ski and snowboard area to the city. It’s known as a budget-friendly and beginner-friendly alternative to larger resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone. Visitors can ski, snowboard, or try snow tubing under the lights for a fun nighttime experience.
Why Go: Short drive, affordable lift tickets, and smaller crowds.
Echo Mountain also offers some of the best outdoor activities in Denver for winter sports enthusiasts.
Kayaking at Confluence Park
Yes—urban kayaking is possible in Denver. At Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, locals and visitors alike paddle through gentle rapids. Kayak rentals and guided tours are available nearby, making this one of the best summer outdoor activities in Denver.
Nearby Bonus: After kayaking, explore the restaurants and breweries in the trendy LoDo and RiNo districts.
Kayaking at Confluence Park is among the best outdoor activities in Denver that locals love.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing at Genesee Park
Only 25 miles west of Denver, Genesee Park is the largest of Denver’s Mountain Parks. In winter, it’s a peaceful spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with chances to see grazing elk along the trails. It’s an easy half-day escape into nature without the long drive to major ski resorts.
Genesee Park is another great location for some of the best outdoor activities in Denver.
Denver Botanic Gardens – A Year-Round Destination
The Denver Botanic Gardens is more than a warm-weather attraction.
– Spring/Summer: Sculpture exhibits, outdoor concerts, and lush gardens.
– Fall: Seasonal plant displays and family harvest events.
– Winter: The famous Blossoms of Light holiday show transforms the gardens into a dazzling wonderland.
This makes the gardens one of the best year-round attractions in Denver.
Visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens is one of the best outdoor activities in Denver that you shouldn’t miss.
Rocky Mountain National Park – Estes Park
Just 90 minutes from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s crown jewels.
– Summer: Hike trails like Bear Lake and Emerald Lake.
– Fall: Experience world-famous elk bugling season.
– Winter/Spring: Snowshoe or cross-country ski on quieter trails.
Tip: Timed entry reservations are required during peak season.
Rocky Mountain National Park is perfect for those interested in the best outdoor activities in Denver and beyond.
Garden of the Gods – Colorado Springs
A little over an hour south of Denver, Garden of the Gods is a free public park with towering red rock formations that rival any national park. Visitors can hike, bike, or even try rock climbing with guided tours.
Best For: Families, photographers, and anyone who wants jaw-dropping scenery without a long hike.
Garden of the Gods offers some of the best outdoor activities in Denver for visitors looking for adventure.
Ski Resorts Near Denver – Breckenridge, Keystone & Winter Park
If you’re looking for world-class skiing and snowboarding, Denver is within two hours of legendary resorts:
– Breckenridge: Known for its vibrant ski town and beginner-friendly runs.
– Keystone: Family-friendly with night skiing available.
– Winter Park: A local favorite with excellent moguls and tree skiing.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Located in southern Colorado (about 4 hours from Denver), this park features the tallest sand dunes in North America. Activities include sandboarding, sledding, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country.
Whitewater Rafting in Idaho Springs or Buena Vista
In summer, Colorado is a whitewater rafting paradise. Idaho Springs (30 minutes west of Denver) offers beginner-friendly trips through Clear Creek Canyon, while Buena Vista provides thrilling Class IV and V rapids along the Arkansas River.
Tips for Exploring the Outdoors in Denver & Colorado
– Stay Hydrated: Denver’s altitude (5,280 feet) can cause dehydration faster than at sea level.
– Layer Clothing: Weather changes quickly—always bring layers.
– Transportation: Renting a car makes it easier to explore mountain towns and parks.
Whether you’re moving to Denver or just visiting, the city is one of the best outdoor destinations in the U.S. From urban kayaking to world-class skiing, Denver offers year-round adventure just minutes from downtown. And with the Rockies in your backyard, the possibilities for exploring Colorado’s great outdoors are endless. Denver is a fantastic place to experience the best outdoor activities in Denver at any time of the year.
