william f. hayden green mountain park

This park is along side a busy highway. after you located the trail head, it is easy to forget the highway below you as you hike like a mountain goat us the edgy trail that climbs dramatically up a cliff. There is cross traffic from mt bikers and the views of the Denver metro area are fantastic.

This mountain park is easy to get to from anywhere in the Denver area. No matter how many cars are in the parking lots it doesn't seem crowded. There are hikers, trail runners, mtn bikers. Most all are very friendly and share the trails. There are also critters such as deer, birds, coyotes (watch out for your dogs). The flora is outstanding too. It does get hot in the summer. There is traffic noise from C470 if you are on that side. But, for an easy to reach workout, nature outing you can't beat this park.

This mountain park is easily accessible being just on the outskirts of Green Mountain on west Alameda Avenue. It has fantastic trails and superb views overlooking the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and is a convenient park to get in a healthy hike without having to drive on I-70.

This park is located on the west side of Denver in Lakewood. Since Lakewood is just beginning the foothills of the mountains, this is not a strenuous hike. It is a great stop if you are on your way up to Idaho Springs, Winter Park, or even Fraser. It has two trailheads and numerous trails to hike. The trails range from easy to a difficult-medium, so there is a lot to choose from. It's also great for mountain bikers, as everyone shares the trails. May and June are good times to go, as there are a number of wildflowers in bloom and the grass is green. From July - September, it can get more dry and change to brown. Winding trails and switchbacks make the hikes easier to climb. There are great distance views of downtown Denver and of the Rockies and Mt. Evans- depending on which way you look.