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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
411 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Enchanted Forest Trail

Enchanted Forest hike near Denver, Colorado
Measurement:

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Table of contents

In the Enchanted Forest, the sights, smells and sounds will make you feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale. It’s a great trail to hike with kids if they don’t mind the length of the walk.

Route Description for Enchanted Forest Trail

You can hike out and back, in a loop or add on some climbs on the side trails, but the unique part of Apex Park is the Enchanted Forest Trail. This out and back trail follows the creek and then enters a shady forest that entices all the senses to take your imagination for a ride.

From the trailhead, take the stairs up to the west, cross over the bridge and make a left onto Apex Trail.

The first 0.8 km borders the Heritage Amusement Park but then you’ll gradually climb up Apex trail, following the creek and the rising hills to the north. Stay left on Apex Trail at each intersection, following the signs. Watch your footing around the larger rocks and loose gravel.

At 2.4 km, follow the signs, cross over the bridge and you’ll be in the Enchanted Forest. Take a moment to stop, look around and take in the sights, smells and sounds. You wont need your imagination to feel like you’re in another world. The trail winds and rolls through tall trees, making the light and shadows scattered and mysterious.

On the other side, you’ll exit the forest and reach the trail end. You can continue on Apex Trail back to the trailhead for a short-but exposed-hike back or, turn around for the shady confines and experience the Enchanted Forest again.

Check out some other great hikes around Denver:

Insider Hints for Enchanted Forest Trail

  • Take a side trail, like the Argos trail, to add some miles and get beautiful views of Golden, Denver and Green Mountain.
  • Take the family and then visit the Heritage Amusement Park afterwards for fun rides and games!
  • On odd days, bikers are only allowed to go one way, making the trails more enjoyable, and safer, for hiking.
  • There is a filtered water bottle filling station at trailhead, which is a nice touch.

Getting to the Enchanted Forest Trail Trailhead

From Denver, take I-70 west and exit at Colfax, exit 262. Take a right, heading west on Colfax (also called Highway 40).  Colfax curves around and you’ll turn right into the Heritage Amusement Park entrance and follow the signs to Apex Park to the lower lot. Drive all the way to the north end of the lot and park on the northern side of the fence.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    Flushing toilets and faucets at trailhead

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Enchanted Forest Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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