Scenic Trails, Local Eats & Small Town Charm
We love a good day trip, and this one checked all the boxes.
Just 40 minutes from Denver, Idaho Springs is the perfect place to escape the city hustle and get into the mountains. Between the stunning views, cozy town vibe, and one of the most rewarding hikes in Idaho Springs, this day trip quickly became one of our favorites.
We’re sharing all the details—from the trail to the table—so you can plan your own epic mini adventure.
Our Day Trip Formula
When we’re planning the perfect day trip, it’s gotta have three things:
✔️ A scenic hike or outdoor adventure
✔️ A delicious local meal (outdoor seating = bonus points)
✔️ A cozy café, brewery, or winery to end the day
Idaho Springs nailed it on all three. Let’s break it down!
The Hike: Chief Mountain Trail
Trailhead: Arapaho National Forest
Distance: 2.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~948 feet
Trail Type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
We hit the Chief Mountain Trail, and it quickly became one of our favorites. The trail is short but gives you big reward views—like full panoramic Rocky Mountain goodness. The incline makes you work a little, but it’s manageable and really enjoyable.
What we loved most?
Quiet trails with minimal crowds (we were there on a Friday morning, it could be busier on the weekend)
Peaceful summit with plenty of space to sit, breathe, snack, and soak in the view.
A perfect mix of challenge + chill, without taking up your whole day
Pro Tip: Bring crampons
We did this hike in late May and there was still a ton of snow on the trail—especially in the shaded areas. We managed without crampons, but it was slick in spots. If you have them, bring them. Your knees will thank you on the way down.
Bonus: Dog-friendly!
We didn’t bring Mimi La Roux on this one, but we saw plenty of happy trail pups along the way. Just be sure to pack water and be mindful of the snow patches.
Lunch: Clear Creek Cidery & Eatery
After the hike, we headed into downtown Idaho Springs (about a 30 minute drive from the trail head to downtown Idaho Springs) for a much-needed lunch at Clear Creek Cidery & Eatery.
Here’s the vibe:
✔️Outdoor patio
✔️ Pet-friendly
✔️ House-made cider
✔️ Huge beer list + to-go cocktails
Great food, great service, and great post-hike energy
Pro tip: Order the chili. They’ve won awards for their homemade recipes and offer three options—pork, beef, or vegetarian with beans. I had the vegetarian, and it was amazing.
Coffee Stop: The Frothy Cup
We always love ending our day with a cozy café moment, and The Frothy Cup was a perfect find.
Located right in the heart of downtown, this little spot has outdoor seating and a solid cup of coffee. Plus the area has such a chill vibe—ideal for sipping while strolling through the walkable downtown area
We grabbed a cup, took a slow walk through town, and popped into a few shops. The whole area is so charming, low-key, and just easy.
Why Idaho Springs Is One of Our Favorite Day Trips From Denver
Between the hike, the food, the coffee, and the views—we couldn’t stop talking about this day. It felt like the perfect mix of movement, good food, and local flavor—our dream trifecta when it comes to day trips.
If you’re looking for a quick getaway or one of the best day hikes near Denver, Idaho Springs is such a great pick. It’s close, it’s scenic, and it has a ton of personality without feeling touristy or overrun.
Tips for Planning Your Own Idaho Springs Day Trip
Start early: Especially in the summer—parking at the trailhead can fill up.
Check trail conditions: Snow can linger into late spring.
Bring layers: Weather in the mountains can change quickly.
Pack snacks and water: The summit is a great spot to chill and refuel.
Support local: The downtown area is full of local gems—make time to explore!
Want More Colorado Day Trip Inspo?
This is just one of many adventures we’re sharing from our Colorado summer travel series! We’re spending the whole season exploring the best mountain towns, scenic trails, and local food spots around the state.
→ Check out the full blog archive at imtravsessed.com
→ Follow us on Instagram @kimanderrang for real-time stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and all the travel things.
Let us know if you try this trip—or if you have other Idaho Springs recs we need to check out next time!
