Top 5 Trails Near Morrison for a Scenic and Active Weekend

Whether you're a weekend warrior, a nature lover, or someone looking for a new way to stay active outside the gym, Morrison, Colorado offers some of the most scenic and invigorating trails in the foothills. As a personal training studio that recently relocated to this beautiful town, we at Prolean Training are excited to share our favorite local trails that will not only take your breath away—but challenge your endurance too.

If you’re ready to trade the treadmill for fresh air and epic views, here are five must-visit trails to explore this weekend:

1. Red Rocks Trading Post Trail

• Distance: 1.5 miles loop

• Elevation Gain: ~300 ft

• Location: Red Rocks Park

This short loop delivers big on views. Winding between towering red sandstone formations, the Trading Post Trail is perfect for a post-leg-day recovery walk or a quick family-friendly hike. It's accessible year-round and great for trail running or incline walking if you want a light burn.

Prolean Tip: Use this as an active recovery day. Pack a protein-rich snack and enjoy the view near the amphitheater post-hike.

2. Mt. Falcon Castle Trail

• Distance: 7.4 miles out & back (can shorten)

• Elevation Gain: ~1,700 ft

• Location: Mt. Falcon Park East Trailhead

This one's for our leg-day enthusiasts. The Castle Trail leads to the historic Walker Castle Ruins and offers panoramic views of Denver, Red Rocks, and even Mount Evans. It’s a steady uphill climb that will test your glutes and lungs, especially at altitude.

Prolean Tip: Add this to your weekend for a killer endurance and hill-conditioning session.

3. Dinosaur Ridge Trail

• Distance: 2 miles out & back

• Elevation Gain: ~200 ft

• Location: Dinosaur Ridge Visitor Center

A unique blend of science, history, and fitness. Walk along the ridge and spot real dinosaur tracks, fossils, and geological formations. It’s an educational adventure that still gets your steps in, ideal for families or light cardio days.

Prolean Tip: Want to hit your step goal for the day without overtraining? This trail is perfect.

4. Bear Creek Trail at Lair o’ the Bear

• Distance: Varies, up to 12 miles

• Elevation Gain: ~500 ft (moderate sections)

• Location: Lair o’ the Bear Park

This trail winds through shaded woods and runs alongside Bear Creek. With its well-maintained paths and gentle inclines, it’s a great option for trail running, fast-paced walking, or a weekend hike with your dog.

Prolean Tip: Bring your heart rate monitor—you can easily turn this into a fat-burning zone workout.

5. William F. Hayden Park Summit Trail

• Distance: 3.3 miles out & back

• Elevation Gain: ~850 ft

• Location: Green Mountain

Just a short drive from Morrison, this trail offers one of the best skyline views of Denver. The incline is consistent, making it great for a steady-state cardio hike or a weighted backpack session if you're training for endurance or fat loss.

Prolean Tip: Want to simulate a stair-stepper? Bring a weighted vest and time your pace between switchbacks.

Train Smart. Live Actively. Explore Locally.

At Prolean Training, we believe fitness goes beyond the gym. That’s why our programs encourage you to blend structured strength training with active weekends outdoors. Living in Morrison gives us all access to some of the best natural "gyms" in Colorado and your body will thank you for taking advantage of them.

Whether you’re building endurance, looking for lower-impact activity between strength sessions, or simply want to feel recharged in nature, these trails are your go-to escape.