Best of the Best: 5 great hikes in the foothills

Easy and unique hikes in the foothills of Colorado

Alderfer/3 Sisters

Located in Evergreen, just south of the lake, is an incredible park with multiple groomed trails. Take the Evergreen Mountain trail for an easy 5 mile roundtrip hike to the top of Evergreen Mountain. Hike, run or bike in the summer, with options to snow shoe in the winter. The peak looks over Evergreen lake and into Conifer (from the top you can see my house at the base of Evergreen mountain!)

Lair O’ The Bear

Lair O’ the Bear, right near Idledale, has various trails and options, the easiest being Bear Creek Trail, a 1.6 mile hike. Drive up the scenic Bear Creek Canyon, alongside Bear Creek, to find various trails to explore for length, skill level and interest. You can also take a 2 mile hike to Dunafon Castle.

Upper Maxwell Falls Trail

This is the easiest way to see a water fall! Located between Evergreen and Confier, there are two entrances to Maxwell Falls. The upper entrance is the best kept secret as it’s less crowded and it’s only 2.4 miles to the water fall, all along a creek so it’s super fun and easy for kids!

Lost Lake via Hessie Trail

Outside of Nederland is a beautiful lake that is only a 4 mile moderate hike. In the summer busy times there’s even a shuttle to the trailhead. Hike up for a picnic lunch or to fly fish, or even get crazy and camp for the night. Check out the website for road closures in off seasons.

Echo Lake to Summit Lake via Chicago Lakes Trail

For the experienced hikers in the bunch, check out this lake hike outside of Georgetown near Mt. Blue Sky. Start at Echo Lake Park, head through Idaho Spring Reservoir then through both Lower and Upper Chicago Lakes and up to the Chicago Lakes Lookout which is situated by the shores of Summit Lake.

More Info on Towns

Click here to learn more about each of these towns in the foothills of Colorado