Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Evergreen, Colorado
Evergreen sits at around 7,000 feet in the foothills west of Denver, and its trail network punches well above its weight for a town this size.
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Evergreen sits at around 7,000 feet in the foothills west of Denver, and its trail network punches well above its weight for a town this size. With 112 active listings, you have genuine range here: flat lakeside walks, forested loops through ponderosa pine, and longer climbs that earn you ridge views. Beginners and families tend to gravitate toward trails like Elephant Butte, Cub Creek Road, and the Summit Trail, all rated easy and manageable for most fitness levels. If you want something with more sustained effort, Bergen Peak Trail and Shadow Pine Loop step up the challenge without requiring technical skills or special gear. The Dedisse Trail and Meadow View Trail thread through Dedisse Park near Evergreen Lake, making them convenient starting points if you're coming from town. Trails like Indian Creek Trail 41, Ponderosa Trail, and the Wild Iris Loop give you that classic Colorado foothills feel: open meadows, rocky switchbacks, and enough tree cover to make a summer morning genuinely pleasant. The variety here means you can string together a full weekend of hiking without repeating yourself, which is not something every Front Range town can claim.
Frequently asked questions
What time of year is best for hiking around Evergreen?
Late May through October covers the reliable window. Snow can linger on shaded trails like Bergen Peak Trail into early June, and the same trails can see early-season snow again by late October. July and August bring afternoon thunderstorms that build fast at elevation, so plan to be off exposed ridges by noon or 1 p.m.
Are there easy trails suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes, several. Elephant Butte Trail, Cub Creek Road, and the Summit Trail are all listed as easy and work well for younger kids or anyone new to hiking at altitude. The Meadow View Trail near Evergreen Lake is another solid choice since it stays relatively flat and keeps you close to the trailhead.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most trails in the Evergreen area that fall within Jefferson County Open Space do not require a permit, but parking at some trailheads may require a Jefferson County Open Space parking pass or a fee. Check the specific trailhead before you go, as policies vary and can change seasonally.
What gear should I bring for a day hike here?
At 7,000 feet and above, sun exposure is stronger than it feels, so sunscreen and sunglasses matter even on overcast days. Bring more water than you think you need, a light rain layer for afternoon storms, and traction devices if you're hiking in spring when trails like Shadow Pine Loop or Bergen Peak Trail may still have icy patches in the morning.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Dogs are permitted on most Jefferson County Open Space trails, including many of the ones listed here, but they are generally required to be on a leash no longer than six feet. A few trails or specific zones within parks may have seasonal wildlife restrictions, so it's worth checking the Jefferson County Open Space website for the specific trail you're planning.
