Mount Falcon West Trail

The Mount Falcon West Trail is an awesome day-hike near Denver. The beauty of Mount Falcon Park is that you would spend the whole day there. Pack provisions and have a picnic up at the summit and explore the many paths that make up the network of trails. As we said, the path up to the mountain is a bit more secluded, but there is no avoiding the crowds at the summit, especially at the ruins. Many locals and tourists alike flock to the park to see the ruins of the ranch that used to sit atop the peak, overlooking Morrison. Note there are some steep segments on the undulating path, but they are manageable by kids and novice hikers alike.

Begin your adventure along the Mount Falcon West Trail from the trailhead. From here, track the Castle Trail southeast, through the ponderosa pine forest. Ascend the rocky terrain and at the intersection with the Meadow Trail, keep left, continuing up the path to the castle ruins. Explore the John Walker castle ruins and continue along the trail to the Summer White House Site. From here, enjoy the unique sights of Morrison and the foothills. At this point, retrace your steps along the Castle Trail back to the intersection at the ruins. Here, veer left onto the Meadow Trail.

Hike along this path and at the next junction, hook onto the Tower Trail which will deliver you to Mount Falcons summit overlook. Enjoy the views of the Front Range peaks that line the horizon and continue along the route until you merge back onto the Meadow Trail. Trek through the meadow, enjoying the expansive vistas before reconnecting with the Castle Trail and retracing your steps down the forested path and back to the trailhead.