Hey there, Denverites! ❄️ | Winter mornings may be chilly, but that’s all the more reason to lace up those boots and hit the trail. Sunrise hikes are the perfect way to soak in Colorado’s natural beauty while enjoying the peace and stillness of the early hours. Plus, nothing beats a cup of coffee after a breathtaking morning trek. Let’s dive into Denver’s best sunrise trails and make those mornings unforgettable! | | Sunrise Hikes to Beat the Chill: Denver’s Morning Magic | | 1. Red Rocks Park | 📍 Morrison, CO | 🚗 30 min. from Denver | Start your day with a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s masterpiece. Red Rocks Park offers well-marked trails that lead to stunning views of the iconic red sandstone formations illuminated by the rising sun. Pro tip: Pack a thermos of hot cocoa to sip as the sun peeks over the horizon. | | 2. Lookout Mountain | 📍 Golden, CO | 🚗 25 min. from Denver | An easy drive and short hike will reward you with panoramic views of Denver and the Rockies. Bonus: It’s a great spot for birdwatching, so keep an eye out for local wildlife as you hike. | | 3. Chautauqua Park | 📍 Boulder, CO | 🚗 45 min. from Denver | For those looking for a slightly longer adventure, Chautauqua Park’s trails provide a variety of options for sunrise seekers. The Flatirons make for a stunning backdrop, and the quiet morning atmosphere is pure bliss. |
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| | 4. Daniels Park | 📍 Sedalia, CO | 🚗 40 min. from Denver | A lesser-known gem, Daniels Park offers a short, accessible hike with sweeping views of the Front Range. The park’s peaceful vibe and fiery morning skies make it a must-visit for sunrise lovers. | | 5. Sloan’s Lake | 📍 Denver, CO | 🚶♂️ Local favorite | Not up for a drive? Stay close to home with a stroll around Sloan’s Lake. The reflections of the sunrise on the water paired with the city skyline create a truly magical scene. |
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| | Sunrise Hike Essentials 🌅 | Stay prepared for a safe and enjoyable sunrise hike near Denver with these must-haves: | | Gear Up | Hiking Boots: Sturdy footwear for rocky terrain. Layers: Moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof outer. Headlamp: For pre-dawn visibility.
| Stay Safe | Navigation Tools: Map, compass, or GPS. First Aid Kit: Include basics and personal medications. Hydration: Drink 16 oz water/hour; pack trail mix for energy.
| Extras | | 💡 Pro Tip: Start early, pace yourself, and leave no trace. You’re all set to catch Denver’s stunning sunrise views! 🌄✨ |
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| | Mile High Happenings (Monday-Tuesday) | Monday, January 20 | | MLK Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo | 📍 Historic Denver Coliseum | 🗓️ Monday, Jan. 20, 6:00 PM | 💲 Varies | Celebrate Black Western heritage and the legacy of Bill Pickett. This special rodeo features pro events like bronc riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling—plus mutton bustin’ for the kids! | | Still We Rise | 📍 Motus Theater, Boulder | 🗓️ Monday, Jan. 20, 3:00–5:00 PM | 💲 Free | Explore MLK Jr.’s vision of beloved community with powerful performances, inspiring music by The ReMINDers, and thought-provoking storytelling. | |
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| Tuesday, January 21 | | Natalie Jane – Sick To My Stomach Tour | 📍 The Bluebird Theater | 🗓️ Tuesday, Jan. 21, 8:00 PM | 💲 Varies | Don’t miss Natalie Jane live on tour! Get ready for an unforgettable night of music. | | |
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| Beyond the Facade: Inside the World of OZ | 📍 OZ Architecture, Denver | 🗓️ Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4:30–6:30 PM | 💲 $40 | Go behind the scenes of Denver’s leading architecture firm with an office tour and presentations on their prominent works, including Platte Fifteen and the DHA Development. | |
| The Great Debate | 📍 717 Lipan St. | 🗓️ Tuesday, Jan. 21, 7:30 PM | 💲 Name Your Price | Hilarious, nonsensical debates on mundane topics by teams of enthusiastic non-experts. Name your price and enjoy the laughs! | |
| Caity Gyorgy | 📍 Dazzle | 🗓️ Tuesday, Jan. 21, 6:30 PM | 💲 $25–$40 | Catch this JUNO-winning Canadian vocalist performing bebop and swing music. A perfect evening for jazz lovers! | |
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| Plan your week with these exciting events, Denverites! Whether you’re celebrating heritage, exploring architecture, or diving into comedy, there’s something for everyone. 🎉 | | Denver Weather This Week | Monday, Jan. 20: ☁️ AM Clouds/PM Sun – A frosty start with a high of 10°F and low of 0°F. Light ENE winds at 7 mph. Bundle up! 🧣 | Tuesday, Jan. 21: 🌤️ Partly Cloudy – A much warmer day with a high of 42°F and low of 20°F. Perfect for an afternoon stroll. | Wednesday, Jan. 22: 🌥️ Partly Cloudy – Chilly with a high of 31°F and low of 13°F. NNW winds at 10 mph—layer up! | Thursday, Jan. 23: 🌥️ Partly Cloudy – Slightly warmer with a high of 35°F and low of 22°F. Calm W winds at 9 mph. | 💡 Heads-Up: A bitterly cold start to the week, but temps bounce back by midweek. Keep those layers handy! 🧤❄️ | | Did You Know? 🌄 | | The best time to catch a vibrant sunrise near Denver is during the late fall and winter months! The crisp air and lower humidity create stunning, colorful skies that are perfect for an early morning hike. 🌅✨ |
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| | Explore More Denver Magic 🌟 | Looking for more ways to dive into all things Denver? Check out these curated guides to make the most of your Mile High adventures: | • 🏔️ Top Things to Do in Denver: Your ultimate guide to the city’s must-see spots and hidden gems. | • 🍴 Best Restaurants in Denver: A foodie’s dream list of top eats in the city. | • 🏨 Best Hotels in Denver: From boutique stays to luxury escapes, find your perfect basecamp. | • ❄️ Winter Things to Do in Colorado: Embrace the snow with outdoor adventures and cozy retreats. | • 🌟 Unique Hotels in Colorado: Stay somewhere unforgettable with these one-of-a-kind accommodations. | Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these guides are here to help you uncover Denver’s best. Happy exploring! 🗺️✨ | | Keep the Mile High Vibes Alive! | | Thanks for joining us, Denverites! ❄️ Whether you’re catching a magical sunrise, celebrating MLK Jr.’s legacy, or soaking up some local jazz, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace our Mile High City this week. | Got a favorite sunrise hike or a hidden gem we haven’t featured yet? Let us know! And don’t forget to share this newsletter with friends who love Denver as much as you do. | Until next time, bundle up, explore boldly, and keep the Denver spirit alive. 🌄✨ | —The What’s Happenin’ Denver Team |
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