Joy on the Trails is a blog series detailing all the incredible hiking trails within an hour of Denver. All the trails featured are accessible to anyone new to hiking, or just wanting to get out without driving for hours into the mountains. I hope you uncover your own joy of hiking and I hope you’re inspired to try a few of my favorite trails. And if you’re so inclined, join me sometime… I’m out there a lot!
Mount Falcon, Castle Trail
There is so much to see on Mount Falcon!
This trail starts just outside of Morrison, so if you have the whole day, start with breakfast at The Blue Cow, or plan to stop here for an ice cream after your hike. After hiking, plan for chips and guac and a margarita at The Morrison Inn. I strongly advise you only order a large if you brought your bathing suit because you could probably swim in the glass they’re going to bring you!
We love eating at Cafe Prague, but it’s fancy so save it for your return trip to Morrison. If you’re doing a carb load after summiting Mount Falcon, hit Tony Rigatoni’s Italian, or Roof Top Tavern for a local micro brew.
But enough about the food… let’s talk trails!
From the east trailhead, the top of Mount Falcon is just over three miles up - take the route to the right along Turkey Trot to avoid bikes. Along the way, you’ll get spectacular views of Red Rocks, and further up, you’ll see the Denver skyline and all it’s brown cloud glory!
At the junction of Turkey Trot and Castle Trail, go right to continue to the top. The Castle Trail is named for the ruins of John Brisben Walker’s castle, and the cornerstone of a would-be summer White House for U.S. Presidents. It’s pretty cool to explore the area, read the historical markers and have a picnic. The sweeping views of the Continental Divide are truly breathtaking.
And speaking of picnics, there are two huge picnic spots at the top that are also accessible by car at the west trailhead. So if hiking isn’t your gig, or you want to bring charcoal and steaks, this area has the best dining room views in Colorado!
Stay on the Castle Trail back down to the east trailhead for a total of 6 miles and you’ve earned yourself a margarita! Just don’t order the large *wink*.
GPS Locator: 3852 Vine Street, Morrison, CO 80465
Managed by: Jefferson County Open Space
Come hiking with me!
If you want more information on this or other trails in the area, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Just like the homes I sell, I can even show it to you in person! And learn more about my Realtor life here.
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