I think I have a new go-to hike for out of towners! This hike was fast, relatively easy with a killer view at the top. Plus, it’s really fun to look up from the town below and say, I just hiked that!
The trail starts just minutes from downtown Golden. There’s a tiny lot around the corner, but street parking will put you right at the start. It’s a relatively steep, narrow dirt trail with short switchbacks as you take in the views of the city below. You also have a perfect view of where you’re headed – right to the top! It looks a little intimidating, but this hike goes by fast!
There’s one tricky spot at the top where you’ll have to do a brief scramble. It looks a little intimidating, but take it slow & you’ll be up and on top of the mountain after a few steps. From there – it’s an easy walk around on top of the plateau! Follow the trail to the stairs, then you’re on top!
I loved this view and walking around to find take in all the different directions. You can see the whole town of Golden, which is one of the cutest of the foothills (make sure you check out their downtown after you’re done!) You can look right down onto the Coors Factory, the largest single-site brewery in the world! You can even see all the way to Denver when you look east.
Going back down is even faster & you can finish the whole hike in less than an hour! Still, with the elevation gain you’ve more than earned yourself a beer from one of Golden’s many breweries, I love New Terrain & Mountain Toad!
Pro Tip: There’s no shade on this trail so wear a hat & lather on the sunscreen
