The best hikes from bus stations around Littleton

There are 7 hiking routes in this guide that are easily accessible from bus stations around Littleton. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.

The Littleton area, nestled in the foothills, offers diverse terrain. You can find routes along the South Platte River corridor, featuring flatter paths, or trails ascending through red rock formations and rolling foothills. Expect a mix of paved sections, dirt paths, and some rocky areas, providing varied experiences for hikers.

Yes, there is an easy route perfect for families. The Ring of Bells Pub – Shropshire Union Canal Path loop from Littleton is a gentle 5.5 km (3.4 miles) hike with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a relaxed outing with children.

While the provided routes focus on the Shropshire Union Canal Path, which offers pleasant waterside views, the broader Littleton area is known for its stunning red rock formations, panoramic views of the Front Range, and the Denver skyline. For a route with a notable landmark, consider the Chester Cathedral – Eastgate Clock loop from Littleton, which includes historical sights.

Absolutely. For moderate difficulty, you can explore the Packhorse Stone Bridge – Shropshire Union Canal Path loop from Littleton (14 km / 8.7 miles) or the Shropshire Union Canal Path – Saighton Water Tower loop from Littleton (14.3 km / 8.9 miles). If you're looking for a more challenging adventure, the Shropshire Union Canal Path – The Shady Oak Pub loop from Littleton is a demanding 27.9 km (17.3 miles) route.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in this area, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 400 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility, the peaceful canal paths, and the opportunity to combine nature with visits to local pubs.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops, meaning you'll end up back near your starting point, which is convenient for bus travel. Examples include the Ring of Bells Pub – Shropshire Union Canal Path loop from Littleton and the longer Chester Cathedral – Eastgate Clock loop from Littleton.

Many of the routes in this guide are designed to incorporate local establishments. For instance, the Ring of Bells Pub – Shropshire Union Canal Path loop from Littleton and the Shropshire Union Canal Path – The Shady Oak Pub loop from Littleton explicitly mention pubs in their names, suggesting opportunities for refreshments along or after your hike.

Littleton offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer is ideal for longer days, autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and winter can offer peaceful, snow-dusted landscapes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for winter hikes.

While specific crowd levels can vary, routes along the Shropshire Union Canal Path, such as the Shropshire Union Canal Path – Saighton Water Tower loop from Littleton, generally offer a more tranquil experience compared to very popular urban parks. Opting for longer, more challenging routes can also lead to fewer people on the trail.