Front Range Foothills Hike and Brewery Tour from Denver
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in moderate shape; routes can be tailored from easy 1-mile walks to 5-mile climbs with up to ~1,000 ft elevation gain.
Overview
Pair a guided Front Range hike with a post-hike craft beer tasting near Denver. Choose a 1–5 mile route through sandstone ridges and end the day on a sunny brewery patio in Golden.
Front Range Foothills Hike and Brewery Tour from Denver
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You step out of a dark green Chevy Traverse as the morning light slices across the Front Range. The city hum of Denver falls away and the foothills open like a map folded along ridgelines. The guide slings a small pack, points to a bluebird-sky gap in the mountains and asks how hard you want to push. Today could be a gentle 1-mile stroll through ponderosa and scrub oak or a 5-mile loop that climbs through a series of ridges for broad views over Golden and the plains.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring 1–2 liters of water
The Front Range is dry and deceptively demanding; hydrate before you start and top up during rest breaks.
Wear grippy shoes with ankle support
Trails include loose shale and uneven roots—good tread reduces the risk of slips on steeper sections.
Carry ID for the brewery stop
Alcohol is available for guests 21 and over; keep your ID handy to avoid delays at the brewery.
Check weather before departure
The operator cancels in severe weather, but afternoon thunderstorms in summer can still affect trail conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Red-tailed hawk
History
Golden grew up during the 1859 Colorado gold rush and later became a hub for mining and rail; Lookout Mountain is also home to Buffalo Bill Cody’s grave.
Conservation
Stay on durable trail to protect fragile foothills vegetation; local breweries often support trail maintenance initiatives through volunteer events.
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Adventure Hotspots in Golden
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on loose shale and protect ankles on uneven terrain.
1–2 L water bottle or hydration bladder
Keeps you hydrated in dry mountain air and during longer loop options.
summer specific
Lightweight layered jacket
Morning temps can be cool and storms move in quickly; layers add flexibility.
spring specific
Daypack with snacks and sunscreen
Carry electrolytes, trail snacks provided, and sun protection for exposed ridge sections.
summer specific