Easy hikes and walks around Westminster
4.4
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1,522
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Easy hiking trails around Westminster, Colorado, are characterized by rolling prairie landscapes and views of the Rocky Mountains. The region features an extensive trail system, often following former ditches and canals that serve as wildlife corridors. Key natural features include lakes and reservoirs like Standley Lake, providing scenic backdrops for outdoor activities.
Best easy hiking trails around Westminster
- The most popular easy hiking route is Westminster Hills Outer Loop, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 19 minutes to complete. This route offers expansive views across the Westminster Hills Open Space.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Greenway and Westminster Hills Loop, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This trail combines greenway sections with the open landscapes of Westminster Hills.
- Local hikers also love the Denver Orbital Trail - Segment 24, a 4.7 miles (7.6 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 58 minutes.
- Hiking around Westminster is defined by rolling prairies, mountain vistas, and natural water bodies. The network of easy hiking trails offers options for different ability levels, including family-friendly walks.
- The routes in Westminster are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from around 20 reviews. More than 1,200 hikers have used komoot to explore Westminster's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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4.98km
01:19
50m
40m
The Westminster Hills Outer Loop offers a refreshing escape into wide-open spaces, perfect for a relaxed hike with your furry friend. This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) loop, with just 152 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick outdoor fix. You'll traverse rolling prairie and grassy singletrack, enjoying expansive panoramic views of the Front Range peaks, including Longs Peak, and passing by the serene Mower Reservoir.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as there are no permits or fees required to access the Westminster Hills Open Space. The trail is famously dog-friendly, with the first mile from the trailhead designated as an off-leash area, so your canine companion can roam freely. It's a great year-round destination, but spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while winter offers stark, beautiful views across the open landscape.
This trail stands out in the Jefferson County area for its accessibility and diverse scenery, appealing to beginners and families alike. Beyond hiking, it's a popular spot for trail running and mountain biking, offering a multi-use recreational experience. The combination of easy terrain, stunning mountain backdrops, and a dedicated off-leash dog area makes it a local favorite.
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4.81km
01:16
50m
30m
The Greenway and Westminster Hills Loop offers a refreshing escape into wide-open prairie, delivering sweeping views of the Colorado Front Range, including the iconic Longs Peak. This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike, with a gentle 159 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. You'll traverse varied terrain, from gravel paths to singletrack, winding through rolling grassy hills and past the serene Mower Reservoir, fringed with cottonwood trees.
Planning your visit is simple, as this accessible loop requires no special permits or fees. The trailhead is particularly popular with dog owners, as a large portion of the Westminster Hills Open Space functions as an off-leash dog park. For the best experience, consider visiting in spring when the area bursts with wildflowers, or during the cooler months for comfortable hiking conditions.
This trail is a fantastic example of the connectivity within the northern Denver metropolitan area, linking into the larger Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail system. Beyond the stunning mountain vistas, the natural areas around the loop and Mower Reservoir provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife, making it a notable spot for nature enthusiasts.
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4.45km
01:10
60m
0m
If you're seeking a tranquil escape with rewarding scenery, Denver Orbital Trail - Segment 25 delivers. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike guides you along dirt paths through fields and forests, culminating in one of the most favored views of Standley Lake. You'll enjoy a pleasant walk right on the lakeshore and a brief stretch alongside the historic Croke Canal, making for a refreshing 1 hour and 10 minutes on the trail.
Accessing this segment is simple, with parking available at the Big Dry Creek Trailhead. This route is particularly family-friendly and great for beginners, offering minimal elevation gain of just 187 feet (57 metres). No special permits are required, making it an accessible choice for a spontaneous outdoor adventure any time of year, though spring and fall offer ideal weather.
Segment 25 stands out among the Denver Orbital Trail's many sections for its focus on natural beauty, contrasting with other segments that might feature more urban or paved greenway areas. It's a prime example of the trail's design to offer approachable day hikes, providing a quick and scenic immersion in nature without demanding a full day's commitment.
7.64km
01:58
50m
10m
The Denver Orbital Trail - Segment 24 offers a refreshing urban hike, guiding you along greenway corridors that blend natural beauty with city convenience. You'll experience a gentle journey past serene blue ponds and through the expansive Walnut Creek Open Space, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing. This easy 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route, with a minimal 166 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely walk or a quick escape into nature, taking approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is conveniently located at both ends of the segment. If you prefer not to drive, one end of the trail is also accessible via public transportation, offering flexibility for your trip. This segment is enjoyable throughout the year, providing a pleasant experience whether you're looking for a morning stroll or an afternoon adventure.
As part of the larger 177-mile Denver Orbital Trail, this segment showcases how Denver integrates natural waterways into its urban environment, providing valuable recreational opportunities. The trail system, conceived by Michael Tormey, aims to make thru- and section hiking more accessible, allowing you to enjoy quality outdoor experiences without needing to drive far into the mountains. It's a testament to the city's commitment to connecting communities with nature.
1.79km
00:28
20m
10m
The Westminster City Park Loop offers a delightful urban oasis, guiding you along a concrete path through wide-open grassy fields and past serene man-made lakes, including the City Park Pond. You'll find abundant wildlife, especially various birds around the water, and enjoy distant mountain views. It's a highly accessible route, perfect for a gentle stroll or a quick nature break without leaving the city.
Planning your visit to the Westminster City Park Loop is straightforward, with ample parking available at Westminster City Park. This easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hike, with only 52 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 28 minutes, making it ideal for any time of day. It's a great year-round option, especially appealing for families looking for a convenient outdoor activity.
Beyond the loop itself, Westminster City Park is a 205-acre hub of activity, connecting to other trails like the Big Dry Creek Trail. The park features unique elements such as colorful, decorated bridges and a farm-themed playground, making it a fantastic destination for those seeking family-friendly amenities and a touch of nature within an urban setting.
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Tips from the Community
Mostly used as a really big Dog Park, but is open to cyclists and is great for connecting Stanley Lake to Rocky Flats via the new bridge over Indiana Street.
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There is a nice mix of singletrack, doubletrack, and packed dirt roads to choose from. Be mindful that dogs can be off-leash in the park.
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The Big Dry Creek Trail is located in Westminster and spans 12 miles from Interstate 25 to Standley Lake. The multi-use trail features a mostly flat terrain with occasional moderate uphill, passing through open spaces, parks, and neighborhoods. It includes a short on-road section near 99th Street and connects to the US 36 Bikeway, which links Denver and Boulder. Due to the Big Dry Creek stream bank restoration project, there will be periodic closures through fall 2024, and a section will remain closed through summer 2025, with detours available.
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At 1,200 acres Standley Lake is the largest body of water in Westminster, and the 3rd largest reservoir in the Denver Metro Area. A number of parks and beaches line its shores and a series of trails make their way around most of its perimeter. The views looking west are incredible with the mountains looming in the background.
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This memorial is dedicated to all those who have served in any branch of the armed services. It features a water fountain, benches, granite pillars, and unique statues of soldiers.
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The Big Dry Creek Open Space boundary actually follows a semi-narrow corridor along the Big Dry Creek waterway. The Big Dry Creek Trail is the most popular within the Nature Reserve and follows the heart of the entire area that the reserve covers.
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One of the many open spaces within the city of Westminster, Walnut Creek connects to a trail network of over 120 miles. Included in these trails is the 16-mile US 36 Bikeway, a paved bike path that runs from Boulder to Westminster.
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City Park Pond is a popular spot in the city for fishing. The pond is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass and other species. The park is also crisscrossed with a number of trails that connect with a number of other parks & open spaces in the city of Westminster.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails can I find in Westminster, Colorado?
Westminster offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. Our guide features 15 easy routes, part of a larger network of 20 hiking tours in the area, perfect for exploring the rolling prairies and mountain views.
Are there any easy circular hiking routes in Westminster?
Yes, several easy circular routes are available. For example, the Westminster Hills Outer Loop is a 3.1-mile path offering expansive views. Another great option is the Greenway and Westminster Hills Loop, which combines greenway sections with open landscapes.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes around Westminster?
Easy hikes in Westminster primarily feature rolling prairie landscapes with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Many trails follow former ditches and canals, acting as wildlife corridors. You'll also find scenic backdrops provided by natural water bodies like Standley Lake.
Are the easy hiking trails in Westminster suitable for families?
Yes, the easy hiking trails in Westminster are generally very family-friendly. They offer manageable distances and gentle terrain, making them ideal for all ages. Routes like the Westminster City Park Loop are particularly good for shorter outings with children.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Westminster?
Many trails in Westminster are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash in open space areas and on multi-use trails, allowing you to enjoy the prairie and mountain views with your canine companion.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest along these easy trails?
Along Westminster's easy trails, you can enjoy natural features like Standley Lake, a significant attraction for birdwatching and scenic views. Other natural areas include Lowell Ponds Wildlife Area and the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.
How long do the easy hikes in Westminster typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies. Shorter loops like the Westminster City Park Loop can be completed in under 30 minutes, while longer easy trails such as the Denver Orbital Trail - Segment 24, which is 4.7 miles, might take around 2 hours.
Are there easy trails in Westminster that offer good viewpoints?
Yes, many trails in Westminster provide excellent viewpoints, especially for the Rocky Mountains. The Westminster Hills Outer Loop, for instance, offers expansive panoramic mountain views across the Westminster Hills Open Space. You can also find scenic vistas at Davidson Mesa Overlook nearby.
What is the best time of year to go hiking on easy trails in Westminster?
Westminster's easy trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is great for early morning or late afternoon hikes. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible for a crisp walk, often with snow-capped mountain backdrops.
Are there any easy trails accessible by public transport in Westminster?
Westminster has an extensive trail system that connects to various parts of the city. While specific trailheads might require a short walk from public transport stops, many regional trails like sections of the Big Dry Creek Trail and Little Dry Creek Trail are integrated into the broader Denver regional trail system, which has public transport access points. For detailed public transport information, it's best to consult local RTD schedules.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails in Westminster?
Many of Westminster's open spaces and parks, which host easy hiking trails, offer dedicated parking lots. For example, areas around Westminster Hills Open Space and Westminster City Park provide convenient access for drivers. You can also check the city's official open space and trails website for more specific parking information: westminsterco.gov/Open-Space-Trails.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Westminster?
The easy trails in Westminster are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful prairie and mountain views, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting along the routes.
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