By Scott Reiman

Denver may appeal to urbanites thanks to its exciting and vibrant city center, but its prime location just east of the Rocky Mountains also makes the city a boon to outdoor enthusiasts. If you are in Denver and you want to go for a hike, try visiting one of these three areas:

With trails for beginner to intermediate hikers, disabled-access areas, and striking mountain backdrops, Roxborough truly features something for everyone. The best views are available from the South Rim Trail, a loop of three miles that most people can complete easily in half a day.

A park for scenery lovers, Chautauqua offers splendid views of the iconic Flatirons mountains. Visitors of all skill levels and abilities can enjoy the well-maintained, interconnecting trails.

For a different kind of Colorado scenery—big sky and open meadows—Meyer Ranch Open Space is a great option. Just 30 minutes from Denver, Meyer Ranch features three different trails running through patches of wildflowers and expansive meadows. You may even spot some grazing deer and elk.