Four amazing places to watch the sunrise near Denver
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to start your morning, this list is for you.
These aren’t all the most popular spots, but they are absolutely beautiful and worth getting up early for.
1. Mt Falcon Park- This park is located on the edge of the foothills in Jefferson County, about 30 minutes from downtown Denver. It offers over 12 miles of nice wide, well maintained dirt trails. It also features the ruins of John Brisben Walkers Castle, which was a proposed summer White House site.
Not many people do this hike for sunrise, at least not when I have gone. I have never gotten such beautiful pictures as I have on this hike. There’s also a wooden bench in the perfect spot to enjoy sunrise. I often bring either a thermos full of coffee (sometimes its Irish!) or my Jetboil and make a fresh pot while watching the sky change colors as the sun comes up.
Why it’s special: This spot offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape including Red Rocks and the Denver City Skyline and it’s quiet at this time.
Best for: Someone that wants a nice easy morning hike. I drive to “the top” , aka the western trail head, then do an approximately 1.5 mile walk to a bench on the Walkers Dream via Castle trail.
2. Red Rocks Amphitheater is located just off I-70 in Morrison. The park offers many trails and the stadium seating of the amphitheater. Many people come here to do yoga, a workout, walk the stairs, or even just sit, relax and take it all in.
Why it’s special: It’s Red Rocks! Need I say more?? It’s also very accessible, you can drive to the top of the amphitheater and walk only a short distance on a concrete trail to see the views. My favorite thing isn’t necessarily the view of Denver but the way golden hour looks with the light bouncing off the red rocks.
Best for: Anyone willing to get up in the morning for it. Also groups that have different ideas of how to enjoy the sunrise, some can do the stairs and others can chill and take it all in. Everyone is happy!
3. Chief Mountain Trail-Tucked into north central Colorado, the hike up Chief Mountain is one of those quick efforts that really pays off. This one is about 45 minutes to an hour from downtown Denver, so you will have to get up earlier for this one.
It tends to be windy at the top so I would bring layers to add so you can stay warm and enjoy the views.
Why it’s special: The top of this mountain offers 360 views from Denver and the plains to the east and the Rockies to the west. The way the mountains glow in the light of sunrise is unreal.
Best for: Someone that wants a bit of a challenge to watch sunrise. The trail is 2.9 miles roundtrip (according to Alltrails) and rated moderate. It definitely gets my heart pumping.
4. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs) This park is beautiful anytime of day. I enjoyed my first sunrise here around Memorial Day. Garden of the Gods is known for its dramatic sandstone spires sculpted by erosion millions of years ago. The views are amazing and at sunrise there is a special added glow to them.
Why it’s special: This park offers over 20 miles of trails for all abilities. Both paved routes and dirt trails. At sunrise I felt like I was the only person there. It was a feeling I can’t quite describe.
Best for: Anyone that wants a serene setting for an early morning trek with gorgeous views.
Tips Before You Go
Check what time sunrise is happening and how long it will take to get there, then plan for an extra 30ish minutes. (It takes me a bit to get rolling sometimes)
Pack/plan something for breakfast the night before. You don’t want hanger to influence your morning!
Get as much ready as you can the night before. Gas in the car, outfits planned, water source packed.
Don’t forget your headlamp!
Not sure which of these fits your trip best? I can help you map it out, including my favorite spots for breakfast after (or more coffee!).
This is one of my favorite things to do so please ask me about guided sunrise hikes!
