Howdy, partner! Ready to saddle up and uncover the true spirit of Denver? This ain’t your run-of-the-mill city guide—nope, we’re exploring the Mile High City’s best outdoor adventures and hidden gems. Get ready for a wild ride through Denver’s finest spots.
1. Hike Red Rocks Park
Not just for concerts, Red Rocks is a natural playground. Hit the trails early to beat the heat and the crowds, and you’ll see why locals love it.
2. Bike the Cherry Creek Trail
Strap on your helmet and pedal through the heart of Denver on the Cherry Creek Trail. It’s smooth riding and perfect for catching sights without a car window in the way.
3. Fish at Sloan’s Lake
Drop a line in Sloan’s Lake. It’s a peaceful way to spend a morning, and you might just reel in your dinner.
4. Climb the Walls at Denver Bouldering Club
Whether you’re a greenhorn or a seasoned climber, the Denver Bouldering Club has routes for you. It’s a fine way to test your grit.
5. Run the Steps of the Colorado State Capitol
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Steven Frame
Feel the burn running the steps of the State Capitol. Count ’em—there are exactly 99, representing the 99 steps to heaven.
6. Kayak Confluence Park
Where the Platte River and Cherry Creek meet, Confluence Park offers some of the best urban kayaking. It’s a splashin’ good time.
7. Discover Dinosaur Ridge
Walk where the dinosaurs did at Dinosaur Ridge. It’s a fossil hunter’s dream right outside your backdoor.
8. Stroll the Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens ain’t just pretty flowers. They host summer concerts and more under the stars.
9. Explore the Wild at Rocky Mountain Arsenal
Get up close with bison and eagles at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a slice of the wild West right in the city.
10. Sip and Savor at a Local Brewery
Denver’s known for its craft beer. Take a brewery tour, and taste the local flavors that make this city a beer lover’s haven.
11. Watch a Sunset at Cheesman Park
Cheesman Park might have a spooky past, but it’s also got one of the best sunset views in town.
12. Ride Horseback in the Foothills
Nothing says Colorado like horseback riding in the foothills. It’s as close as you’ll get to feeling like a cowboy without leaving the city.
13. Golf at City Park
Tee off at City Park, where the skyline views are as impressive as the fairways.
14. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Chatfield Reservoir
Stand-up paddleboarding at Chatfield Reservoir is a fine way to cool off and enjoy some mountain views.
15. Tour the Mint
Ever wonder where your coins come from? Tour the Denver Mint and find out. It’s more fascinating than you might think.
16. Hunt for Street Art in RiNo
The RiNo Art District is bursting with colorful street art. It’s a gallery open 24/7, and free to boot.
17. Attend a Rodeo at the National Western Stock Show
Come January, the National Western Stock Show is the place to be for rodeo action, cattle shows, and a real cowboy market.
18. Soak in a Hot Spring
Drive a bit out of town to soak in natural hot springs. It’s the best way to unwind after a day of Denver adventures.
19. Zip Line Over the Rockies
For the thrill-seekers, zip lining over the Rockies offers breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush like no other.
20. Picnic at Washington Park
Grab some grub and enjoy a picnic at Washington Park. It’s a favorite local spot for a lazy afternoon.
21. Experience the Haunted History Tour
For a taste of the eerie, take a haunted history tour of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods. It’s a spooky good time.
Y’all Come Back Now!
There ya have it—21 ways to kick up your heels and enjoy Denver like you’re part of the landscape. Whether you’re here for a spell or just passin’ through, these experiences will make you feel right at home. Happy trails!
The post Discover Denver: Best Outdoor Activities and City Secrets first appeared on Mama Say What?!
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Arpan Parikh.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
