As the weather gets warmer, the time is now to hit the trails and see some beautiful natural wonders. Lucky for you, there are plenty within an hour or two of Boulder that will make the trip totally worth it.

1. Eldorado Falls

Credit: Dayhikesneardenver.com

For a lovely hike close to home, head to Walker Ranch and the Ethel Harrod Trailhead. Take a nice moderate 1.25-mile hike down about 500 feet through pine forests until you hear the rushing water of the South Boulder Creek hitting the rocks. These cascades are beautiful year-round, and you can bring your pup to frolic in the water after a warm hike.

2. Maxwell Falls

Credit: Anthony Cozzi, hikingproject.com

This hike in Evergreen is one of the most popular near Denver, so it’s going to probably be a fairly crowded route unless you go really early or in the evening. You can take anywhere from a 1.6 mile to a 4 mile trail to the destination, and there are varying styles of intermediate terrain that are doable for the whole family. You’ll be rewarded at the end with this beautiful cascade and views of the conifer forest around Evergreen.

3. Cascades Near Berthoud

Credit: Dayhikesneardenver.com

Located right off US 40 on Berthoud Pass to Winter Park, these cascades are a breath of fresh air. This is a great place to stretch your legs on your way into the mountains and is lesser known, so you won’t be vying for space with hundreds of other people. Dayhikesneardenver.com has a great guide to knowing where to park and gives a little more information about the cascades.

4. Adams Falls

Credit: Dayhikesneardenver.com

If you’re up for going a bit further, there is a more spectacular waterfall option available to you. Adams Falls near Grand Lake can be found at the end of a brief 0.6-mile roundtrip hike that shares a trailhead with the East Inlet Trail. This is a great hike for families or those who can’t hike as far, as the falls can be accessed only 0.3 miles of easy terrain from the trailhead. You’ll also get beautiful views of the meadows and mountains of the quieter side of Rocky Mountain National Park.

5. Calypso Cascades

Credit: Dayhikesneardenver.com

Take an easy 3.6 mile stroll through Rocky Mountain National Park’s Wild Basin area for a beautiful tranquil experience with the Calypso Cascades. You’ll also pass by upper and lower Copeland Falls, and will hopefully see some dainty purple Calypso orchids, the flowers that bloom around the creek and give the cascades their name.

Do you have a favorite waterfall hike? Let us know in the comments!

Happy Hiking!

Feature Photo: Calypso Cascades
Credit:  dayhikesneardenver.com

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