Things To Do
in Evergreen

Evergreen, Colorado sits in the foothills west of Denver, surrounded by ponderosa pines and sweeping mountain views. The town blends outdoor recreation with a small-town arts scene, offering galleries, craft shops, and seasonal events. It serves as a gateway to nearby trails, lakes, and scenic byways.

Visitors should expect crisp air, wildlife encounters, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Evergreen Lake
morning
:

Start your day with a serene walk around Evergreen Lake, where the crisp morning air invigorates your senses. Enjoy the picturesque views as the sun rises over the mountains, casting a golden hue on the water. Consider renting a kayak or canoe for a peaceful outing on the lake.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Evergreen Marketplace to explore local shops and boutiques. Savor a delicious meal at a café that offers farm-to-table options, highlighting the area's freshest ingredients. Spend the afternoon hiking the nearby trails, where you can glimpse local wildlife and perhaps even a rainbow of wildflowers in bloom.

evening
:

As the sun sets, unwind at a local brewery, where you can sample handcrafted beers made from local ingredients. The ambiance is perfect for relaxing as you listen to live music and mingle with locals. Conclude your day with a stroll under the stars along the lake, reflecting on the beauty of the day.

day 2
Visit to Red Rocks Park
morning
:

Embark on a scenic drive to Red Rocks Park, known for its stunning rock formations and beautiful hiking trails. The morning sun illuminates the vibrant red rocks, making it an ideal time for photography. Take a leisurely morning hike, exploring the trails that weave through this natural wonder.

afternoon
:

After an invigorating morning, grab lunch at the park’s visitor center, where you can refuel with hearty options. Attend a concert or event at the iconic amphitheater, if scheduled, or continue exploring the park's numerous trails. Don't forget to take advantage of the breathtaking views that surround you; it's a perfect spot for a picnic.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot to enjoy the sunset over the rocks, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Consider making your way back to Evergreen for dinner, where you'll find a variety of restaurants to choose from. Enjoy a sumptuous meal while sharing stories of your adventures from the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or latte$3-6
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$120-200
🚗Gas per gallon$3-4
🛒Groceries for a day$15-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to a wide range of outdoor activities and scenic hikes
  • Friendly, small-town atmosphere with a growing arts scene
  • Limited nightlife and heavier dependence on driving
  • Seasonal weather can affect road access and trail conditions

Places to Visit in Evergreen

Visit one of these nice places.

Evergreen Lake Overlook

Wide water reflections in calm mornings with pine silhouettes, ideal for sunrise photos and wildlife shots.

Alderfer/Three Sisters Park Viewpoints

Rock formations framed by evergreen forest; dramatic golden hour lighting over rocky outcrops.

Hiwan Homestead Museum Grounds

Historic buildings set against a backdrop of pines; great for architectural and landscape photography.

Chief Mountain Lookout Trails

Short climbs yield sweeping panoramas of the foothills and distant peaks, especially striking at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Evergreen

Evergreen’s cuisine centers on mountain fare and farm-to-table ingredients, with craft beer and seasonal produce shaping many menus.

Evergreen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Green Chile Pork Stew

A hearty Colorado stew with pork, green chilies, and potatoes, perfect for cool evenings and widely available in local eateries.

Must-Try!

Bison Burger

Lean bison patty topped with seasonal greens and a tangy sauce; a common protein choice at mountain cafés.

Colorado Lamb Shepherd's Pie

Slow-cooked lamb layered with vegetables under a fluffy potato crust, often served in family-style portions.

Wild Berry Crisp

A dessert featuring local berries with a crumb topping, ideal with coffee after a day outdoors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Evergreen Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering local produce, honey, preserves, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats from nearby vendors.

Local Food Trucks

A rotating lineup of trucks around town offering tacos, burgers, and grilled fare—great for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Evergreen experiences a mountain climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers with occasional storms, colorful autumns, snowy winters, and mild to cool springs. Elevation and exposure can make temperatures feel cooler than absolute readings, especially at night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Leave No Trace

Respect wildlife, pack out trash, and stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems.

Safety Guide

Safety

Be aware of wildlife, particularly bears and mountain lions, and keep a safe distance. In winter, drive with care on icy, winding roads and carry a roadside emergency kit. Stay on marked trails, check weather alerts, and inform someone of your plans when venturing into remote areas.

Tipping in Evergreen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, 15–20% is standard before tax; larger parties may have gratuities added automatically. Tipping for guides, bartenders, and delivery is customary. Cash tips are appreciated but not required when paying by card.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry, sunny days with afternoon thunderstorms common. Stay hydrated, carry a light layer for cooler evenings, and plan hikes for early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.

Fall

Colorful aspen and evergreen landscapes peak in autumn. Expect cooler temps and vivid photo opportunities; check for trail closures after early snowfalls.

Winter

Snowy, with chilly mornings and crisp blue skies. Dress in layers, wear traction on trails, and be prepared for icy roads; some roads may close after storms.

Spring

Mud and resurgence of greenery; longer daylight hours, occasional late-season snow; watch for wildlife activity and seasonal road maintenance.

Nightlife Guide

Evergreen at Night

Evergreen’s nightlife is low-key and community-focused, featuring casual bars, neighborhood breweries, and occasional live music at small venues. Expect friendly conversation, laid-back Atmosphere, and scenic views as a backdrop rather than a party scene.

Hiking in Evergreen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Alderfer/Three Sisters Park Loop

Popular loop with varied terrain, forest canopies, and impressive rock formations.

Maxwell Falls Trail

Family-friendly route to a charming waterfall with shaded switchbacks.

Chief Mountain via Echo Mountain Trail

Steady climb with rewarding views of the foothills and valley below.

Mount Falcon East Rim Trail

Historic site and scenic overlooks with opportunities to explore ruins and old homesteads.

Airports

How to reach Evergreen by plane.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Major international hub roughly 40–60 miles east, accessible via I-70 and major regional routes; affords extensive domestic and international connections.

Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (RMMA)

Smaller regional airport in Broomfield offering limited commercial service and general aviation, about 25–35 miles northeast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Downtown Evergreen is walkable, with a cluster of shops and dining options. On the whole, the town is car-dependent, and many trailheads require driving. Some scenic spots are accessible via short, easy walks from parking areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Outdoor-loving families drawn to safe neighborhoods, schools, and parks.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Residents and visitors who prioritize hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing.

Seasonal Residents

People who split time between Evergreen and other Colorado towns, especially during summer and winter peaks.

Local Arts Community

Artists, makers, and gallery patrons who contribute to the town’s cultural flavor.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Accessible at nearby resorts in the Front Range; winter sports are a regional staple.

Mountain Biking

Many forest trails around Evergreen cater to riders of all levels.

Hiking and Trail Running

Reliable year-round activity with various elevation gains and forest settings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light outside peak Denver commuting hours, but mountain passes and I-70 can experience congestion and closures after heavy snow or during major events. Public transit is available but limited compared with larger cities; most visitors rely on cars or ride shares for flexibility.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Evergreen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most eateries offer veggie-forward mains and clearly labeled sides; ask for meat-free stock or substitutions where needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are available in Evergreen via local clinics, with more comprehensive care and emergency services in nearby Golden, Lakewood, and Denver. Urgent care and primary care providers are widely available within a 30–60 minute drive.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide