Denver Suburbs Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Denver, CO | Image credit: Acton Crawford

Denver is one of the major American cities with the best proximity to nature. Denver is famous for its surrounding mountains, numerous trails, and dense forests. However, it is not only Denver itself that benefits from the unique environment of its location. Many of Denver’s suburbs and nearby towns are located in similarly beautiful settings without the same crowds and congestion.

If you love exploring the outdoors, you’ll find many stunning suburbs of Denver ideal for you. Let’s look at some of the cities near Denver that are perfect for those who enjoy getting outside.

Boulder

Boulder is a city with a population of 108,000 that has been rapidly growing for years now. It is a place popular for young professionals, families, and retirees. While the economy has surged as the tech sector emerged as a powerhouse, one of the big reasons Boulder has become so popular is its reputation as a city ideal for nature lovers.

Boulder has top-notch hiking trails and public parks. The city’s most famous landmark, the Flatirons, are sandstone formations that are 300 million years old and can be explored via many trails around the city. Boulder has picturesque nearby mountains and is recognized as an extremely walkable town.

Golden

Golden is aptly named for its legacy as a Colorado gold rush town, where prospectors would come far and wide to make their fortune. Today, it is a scenic city of 20,000 nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, roughly a 25-minute drive to Denver. Golden has incredible mountain views and tons of outdoor recreational areas to explore.

Clear Creek Trail is a popular area with winding paths that pass by flowing waters. Its scenic natural beauty can be enjoyed through hiking or kayaking. Golden also has many small nearby mountains that are great for some uphill hiking. After a long walk, grab a Coors, as this town is the home of the famed beer company.

Castle Rock

Castle Rock is a community that has been rapidly growing for the past several years. This suburb is a 33-minute drive south of Denver and is known as an affluent hub for many of the city’s professionals who wish to live outside its limits. Castle Rock is home to 73,000, with a population that increases yearly, and its natural appeal is a big reason why.

Many parks and trails make Castle Rock a hub for hikers. Rock Park offers incredible views of the surrounding area, East Plum Creek Trail allows hikers to be immersed in the natural environment, and the Gateway Mesa Open Space is an excellent spot for camping.

Lakewood

Lakewood is one of the biggest cities in Colorado, a thriving suburb home to more than 155,000. The city is situated just outside Denver, making the commute very manageable. Its location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains provides residents a stunning view of one of America’s most famous mountain ranges.

There are a host of great areas to explore near Lakewood. Bear Creek Lake Park is a sprawling, densely forested park that encircles a large lake, which is a must-see for those living in the city. This is a popular destination for hiking, canoeing, and camping. William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park is a hilly hike that residents also enjoy. There are many picturesque areas to walk, all with the backdrop of the Rockies.