Colorado Hikes near Denver: Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail
About 13 months to the day of this hike in December, a steel plate fell onto my left leg while at the Ogden Theater in Denver. After months of physical therapy on a partially torn calf and an injured posterior tibialis, this was the first trail I didn’t experience any pain or discomfort. Truly, Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail proved challenging and rewarding as I trekked the steep grade behind the Red Rocks Amphitheater. I will be reminded of the milestone while it serves as the backdrop to the shows we plan to see in the venue this year. Of course, pictures never give it justice.
What happens when the personal training studio in Denver is closed? Climb the nearest mountain. The Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail definitely pumps the blood.
Time of Year: Mid-December
Weather: 48 degrees and sunny at 9:58 am, wind: 5 mph (nonfactor); 60 degrees and sunny at 12:51 pm, wind: 5 mph (nonfactor).
Cover: 99.9% exposed. Thank you, two trees.
Time: 9:58 am - 12:51 pm.
Distance: 4.1 miles total, 2018 foot gain.
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.
Route: Trailhead out and back.
Traffic: Light to moderate (busier on the way out).
Parking: Only 2 spots left arriving and leaving in the 25 car lot.
Equipment: Hiking boots (highly recommended). Maybe hiking poles next time?
Terrain: A well-marked dirt and dry trail with a 1000-foot climb up in the first mile. Constructed steps helped in some of the beginning sections. Stepped over my first power line... which supposedly has been there for a few years. Even though it was winter, there wasn't any snow or mud. The last 700-foot half-mile climb is steep and mixes between a dirt path and a rock scramble. The scramble requires a bit of sure-footedness.
Experience: A great workout with a steep grade over a short distance. Certainly a challenge, though. Well worth the nearly double average pace to the top. With views in all directions at many points (especially the peak) and a glimpse into the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, this trail is always a great option close to Denver. Considering the sun exposure, it will be accessible within days of snowfall.
Cost: Free.
Difficulty: Hard Level 1. Cardio and muscular endurance are necessary for the consistent grade up and unsteady footing due to the rock scramble on the last third up; moderate distance at 4.1 miles out and back; about 2000 foot gain overall. While climbing the rocks might be challenging, the dirt on the steep bottom third of the trail offers new obstacles without grip.
Denver Personal Trainer Notes: As advertised in the AllTrails reviews, this trail proved as challenging and rewarding as I had hoped. Don’t let the short distance fool you. The 1000-foot climb in the first mile is a challenge. I recommend this to anyone with an excellent endurance baseline, including my personal training clients preparing for races or looking for a weekend workout. For music enthusiasts, there are glimpses into the mecca of music, the Red Rocks Amphitheater, and an incredible 360 view at the top.
My personal training clients in Denver with a strong endurance baseline will enjoy the challenge (and grade) of this hike.
This is view is only 28 minutes from my Denver personal training studio in LoHi. Simply amazing.
A photo from the rock scramble up the last 700 feet.
All personal training sessions need a backdrop like this! As long as it isn’t a winter storm…..
The mecca of music for my personal training clients and I. The Red Rocks Amphitheater is an incredible venue for live music.
The high plains never looked sweeter on a December day in Colorado.
The sun was shining on my hike this day in Morrison. The perfect temps for an epic climb outside of LoHi.
On the peak of the Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER
As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.
Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!
