The best walks and hikes around Applewood
4.8
(214)
7,273
hikers
231
hikes
Hiking around Applewood, Colorado, is characterized by its location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, west of Denver. The landscape features prominent volcanic mesas, such as North Table Mountain and South Table Mountain, which offer expansive views. Trails also follow scenic creek beds and various waterways, providing a mix of natural and urban scenery. The region's topography includes ancient lava flows and mountain foothills.
Best hiking trails around Applewood
- The most popular hiking route is Basalt Cap Loop Trail, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 33 minutes to complete. This route leads through the South Table Mountain Park Conservation Easement.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ancient Palms and Basalt Cap Loop, an easy 2.5 miles (4.1 km) path. This trail features unique ancient palms and panoramic views.
- Local hikers also love the Carl's Point – Carl's Point loop from Applewood, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail leading through mountain foothills, often completed in about 1 hour 19 minutes.
- Hiking around Applewood is defined by trails on volcanic mesas, paths along creek beds, and routes in the mountain foothills. The network of more than 170 routes offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
- The routes in Applewood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 190 reviews. More than 6,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Applewood's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5
hikers
4.11km
01:10
80m
100m
The Ancient Palms and Basalt Cap Loop offers a fantastic, accessible hike with expansive views from an ancient lava mesa near Golden. You'll experience varied terrain, from singletrack on the Ancient Palms Trail to the relatively flat Basalt Cap Loop, all while enjoying vistas of Golden, Denver, and the Rocky Mountains. The route is an easy 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with 279 feet (85 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just over an hour to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, but remember that the trail is multi-use, so you'll share it with mountain bikers. Parking can fill up, especially on busy days, so an early start is recommended. If you're hiking in summer, be sure to carry plenty of water and sunscreen, as the mesa is exposed to the sun. The trail is open year-round, offering different seasonal beauty.
This trail is notable for its unique geological setting atop an ancient lava mesa, providing a distinct landscape you won't find everywhere. It's also part of a larger network of trails within South Table Mountain Park, allowing for longer explorations if you wish to connect to other paths like the Fossil Trail or Old Quarry Trail. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including cliff-nesting raptors, which are protected in the area.
4
hikers
5.63km
01:33
90m
90m
Hike the easy Basalt Cap Loop Trail for panoramic views of Golden, Denver, and the Rocky Mountains from an ancient lava mesa.
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5.0
(1)
42
hikers
6.88km
01:54
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
hikers
6.55km
01:50
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
hikers
4.08km
01:07
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
You can see William Frederick Hayden Park on the right, and Denver on the left from Carl's Point. A perfect spot to take a mid ride photo or simply take a break and enjoy the view.
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You can see William Frederick Hayden Park on the right, and Denver on the left from Carl's Point. A perfect spot to take a mid ride photo or simply take a break and enjoy the view.
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The jog up to the top of this high point isn't particularly challenging, but it's a great spot to take in views of Lakewood and Denver to your east, and a big swath of protected natural land to your west. Watch out for mountain bikers on the trail.
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Views from Carl's Point yield William Frederick Hayden Park to your right and Denver just straight out.
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this Place is a gravel playground!!! get lost on the wider tracks, complete te loops, enjoy the views
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the Applewood hiking area?
Applewood is located in Colorado, just west of Denver at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The main hiking areas are situated around the prominent mesas of North and South Table Mountain, offering excellent views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Golden.
How many hiking trails are available around Applewood?
There is a wide variety of trails to choose from, with over 170 routes in the Applewood area. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain hikes, ensuring options for all fitness and experience levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Applewood?
The trails around Applewood are highly regarded by the komoot community. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, hikers often praise the expansive views from the mesas and the well-maintained paths that explore the unique volcanic landscape.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, there are many options suitable for families. The Basalt Cap Loop Trail is a great choice, offering a relatively flat and short walk through the South Table Mountain conservation area with minimal elevation gain.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in the Applewood area are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary. Dogs are generally required to be on a leash, especially in park areas like North and South Table Mountain. Always check the specific rules for the trail you plan to hike and be mindful of wildlife and other trail users.
What is the geology of the Applewood trails like?
The landscape is defined by its volcanic history. The trails on North and South Table Mountain cross mesas formed by ancient lava flows. You'll be hiking on and around basalt rock, which creates the flat-topped mountains and offers dramatic, rugged scenery.
Are there any circular or loop trails?
Yes, loop trails are very common. For a moderately challenging loop with great views, consider the Lithic Trailhead – Downtown Denver View loop from Mount Olivet. It provides a satisfying circuit with rewarding vistas of the Denver skyline.
What's a good hike for seeing the local scenery without a major climb?
The Clear Creek Trail is an excellent option. It follows the creek, offering a mix of urban and natural views with very little elevation change, making it perfect for a relaxed walk or run.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Applewood?
The primary hiking areas around Applewood, such as North and South Table Mountain, are known for their dry, mesa-top environments and are not characterized by waterfalls. The trails focus more on panoramic views and unique geological formations.
What is the best time of year to hike in Applewood?
Hiking is possible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures. Summers can be very hot and exposed on the mesas, so it's best to hike early in the morning. In winter, trails can be icy or muddy, so traction devices are recommended.
How do the hikes in Applewood compare to those in nearby Golden?
The trails are very interconnected. Applewood's main hiking areas, North and South Table Mountain, are technically within Golden's city limits. Hikes starting from the Applewood side often lead you into the same park systems you'd access from Golden, offering similar terrain and views.
Are there any long-distance or backpacking routes available?
The trails immediately around Applewood are primarily for day hiking and are not suitable for overnight backpacking. For multi-day trips, you would need to travel further west into the higher elevations of the Rocky Mountains and national forests.
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