Green Mountain: A Denver Foothills Escape

4.6 (89)

Hike, bike, and explore Green Mountain in Lakewood, CO, for stunning Denver views and a quick escape into nature. Trails for all levels!

Home
Colorado
Rocky Mountains
Green Mountain

Green Mountain, located in Lakewood, Colorado, is a popular mesa offering stunning views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains. With a network of trails, it's a favorite for hikers, bikers, and runners seeking a quick escape into nature.

A brief summary to Green Mountain

Lakewood, Colorado, US

Local tips

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the trails offer little shade.
Be prepared to share the trails with mountain bikers.
Check trail conditions before you go, as they can get muddy after rain or snow.
Consider hiking early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

William Frederick Hayden Park

William Frederick Hayden Park: Green Mountain Escape

Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center

Dinosaur Ridge: Walk Among Giants

Dinosaur Ridge

Dinosaur Ridge: A Journey Through Time

Getting There

Driving

Several parking areas provide access to Green Mountain. The most popular access points are on the west side near C-470 and on the southwest side off Alameda Parkway. Parking is free. Be aware that parking lots can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
Public Transport

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides bus service to the area. Bus routes 3 and 21 have stops near Green Mountain. From the Red Rocks College Station, it's about a 52-minute walk to the Green Mountain trails. A single ride on the bus costs $3.00.
Ride-Sharing

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at one of the parking areas. A ride from downtown Lakewood to the Alameda Parkway trailhead will cost approximately $15-20, depending on demand.

Discover more about Green Mountain

Green Mountain, also known as William Frederick Hayden Park, is a 2,400-acre park in Lakewood, Colorado, providing a natural escape with panoramic views. Rising to 6,854 feet, the mesa offers unique perspectives of the Denver metropolitan area to the east and the towering Rocky Mountains to the west. The park boasts a diverse trail system, catering to various outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers, runners, and mountain bikers frequent the trails, which range from easy strolls to challenging ascents. The Green Mountain Trail, a 6.6-mile loop, is a popular choice, featuring a challenging climb to the summit and a more mellow section along the base. Other trails include the Hayden Trail, Summit Loop Trail, and Rooney Valley Trail, each offering its own unique experience. Green Mountain's history adds another layer of interest. The land was primarily donated by or purchased from the Hayden family in 1972. Interestingly, from 1903 to 1939, the Colorado Army National Guard leased the mountain for pre-WWII military training, including live-fire artillery exercises. Whether you're looking for a challenging workout, a peaceful nature walk, or simply a place to soak in the views, Green Mountain offers a refreshing escape from the city. Its proximity to Denver makes it a convenient destination for a quick hike or run.