Combine a short Colorado hike with an outdoor painting workshop on Mt. Falcon. Hike to a scenic overlook, learn landscape techniques from a local artist, and take home your finished canvas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You crest a wind-scoured ridge and the valley opens—pine trunks tilt like audience members and the city glints far below. Mt. Falcon’s West Trail leads through meadow and ponderosa, and at a chosen overlook an easel is set against the sky: this is where painting meets trail life.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for general fitness; you should be comfortable hiking short uphill sections and standing to paint for periods.
Wildlife
History
Mt. Falcon contains the partial stone foundations of an early 20th-century project by John Brisben Walker; those ruins are visible from several trails and add historical context to the hike.
Conservation
Pack out all painting waste and used materials; stick to established trails to protect alpine grasses and prevent erosion on these foothill slopes.
Reserve your spot on the Colorado Hike & Paint Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring water and a small pack
Even on easy routes the sun and wind dry you out—carry at least 1 liter and a daypack for layers and your finished canvas.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trail surfaces are dirt and gravel with short steep sections—trail runners or hiking shoes with grip protect ankles and brushes alike.
Protect your painting from wind
Bring a clip or ask the guide for a windbreak—light canvases can blow while paint is still tacky.
Plan for changing weather
Afternoon storms can develop quickly in the foothills; a lightweight rain shell is useful even if the forecast is good.
Trail shoes or sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on dirt and gravel trails and support on short climbs.
Water bottle or hydration bladder
Keeps you hydrated during the hike and while you focus on painting.
summer
Sun hat and sunscreen
Shields you during exposed painting sessions on the overlook.
summer
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Protects against sudden showers and the persistent foothills wind.
spring