Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Broomfield, Colorado
Broomfield sits in the corridor between Denver and Boulder, and its trail network reflects that in-between character: you get Front Range views without the elevation grind, and enough connected greenway mileage to put together a solid half-day on foot.
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View on mapHiking · 34 spots
Broomfield sits in the corridor between Denver and Boulder, and its trail network reflects that in-between character: you get Front Range views without the elevation grind, and enough connected greenway mileage to put together a solid half-day on foot. The 34 listed hikes here are almost entirely flat to gently rolling, built around the city's open space and reservoir system. McKay Lake Trail and Eagle Pond Trail are the most frequently accessed loops, both short enough for a lunch-hour walk but pleasant enough that regulars come back weekly. The Rock Creek Trail and Northwest Parkway Trail function as connectors, letting you link segments into longer outings if you want more distance. Metzger Farm Open Space adds a bit of agricultural character to the mix, while the Community Ditch Trail and The Greenway Trail are good choices when you want a straight, uninterrupted stretch to move fast. Highpoint Trail lives up to its name relative to the surrounding terrain and gives you the best elevated sightline in the city's trail system. Most trails here are paved or compacted gravel, which means they're accessible to a wide range of fitness levels and work well year-round. If you're coming from out of town expecting mountain hiking, recalibrate — Broomfield's trails are urban and suburban in nature, but they're well-maintained and genuinely useful for getting outside without driving into the hills.
Frequently asked questions
What is the skill level required for hiking in Broomfield?
Virtually all of Broomfield's trails are beginner-friendly. Routes like McKay Lake Trail, Eagle Pond Trail, and Country Vista Park involve minimal elevation change and are suitable for families with young kids, older adults, or anyone returning to regular walking. Highpoint Trail is the most demanding option in the city system, but it's still well within reach for casual hikers.
What is the best time of day to hike in Broomfield?
Early morning is the most comfortable option from late May through September, when afternoon temperatures on exposed trails like the Northwest Parkway Trail and The Greenway Trail can feel hot with little shade. In spring and fall, midday hiking is perfectly fine. Trails around McKay Lake and Eagle Pond tend to get busy on weekend mornings, so if you want solitude, aim for a weekday or arrive before 8 a.m.
Are Broomfield's trails hikeable in winter?
Yes, most of them. Paved and compacted-gravel routes like the Rock Creek Trail, Community Ditch Trail, and Northwest Parkway Trail are often cleared or at least passable after snow. Traction devices aren't usually necessary, but they're worth having after an ice storm. Daylight is the main limiting factor in December and January, so plan accordingly if you're doing a longer linked route.
What gear do I actually need for a day hike here?
Because these are urban and suburban trails with frequent access points, you don't need a full pack. Water, sun protection, and weather-appropriate layers cover most situations. The Front Range is known for fast-moving afternoon thunderstorms from July through early September, so if you're out on an exposed stretch like the Highpoint Trail or Siena Trail in summer, keep an eye on the sky and have a plan to get off the trail quickly.
Are dogs allowed on Broomfield trails, and are there any access restrictions to know about?
Dogs are generally welcome on Broomfield's trail system but are required to be on leash in city parks and open spaces, including areas around McKay Lake and Metzger Farm Open Space. Some trailheads have limited parking, particularly at Eagle Pond Trail and the Path near Brunner Reservoir, so arriving early on weekends helps. Check Broomfield's parks and recreation site for any seasonal closures, as conditions around reservoir trails can change after heavy rain.
