I’m a Colorado local here to share the best things to do in Nederland! This guide is based on my many year-round visits, plus hours of extensive research.
I share my favorite Nederland attractions and nearby destinations. You’ll also discover hidden gems, including a ghost town you’ll actually want to visit (versus the one recommended by other guides). I’ll help you make the most of your trip to one of Colorado’s best mountain towns!
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16 Best Things to Do in Nederland
Lost Lake via Hessie Trail
This popular trail is a great day hike and my number-one recommendation if you want to get into backpacking.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 295-6600 | Website | Entrance: Free, $5 camping permit required from June 1 – Sept. 15
Lost Lake via Hessie Trail is one of the top hikes near Boulder. This Front Range route is where I point all beginner backpackers. It’s only 4 miles roundtrip, water sources are plentiful, and all nine available campsites are shaded and incredibly scenic.
In fact, Lost Lake was my first-ever backpacking trip! I made plenty of mistakes like massively overpacking yet forgetting key backpacking essentials. But even so, I had an incredible time and highly recommend this trail. Just be sure to nab parking early during peak season, or plan to take the free shuttle from town.
🥾 New to Backpacking? A backpacking pack will be one of your most expensive and crucial pieces of gear. Make sure you’re investing in a comfortable, durable product with my guide to this year’s best backpacking packs!
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Landscape and wildlife photographers must visit this gorgeous site set 15 miles north of Nederland.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 541-2500 | Website | Entrance: Free during winter, $16 timed entry parking permit required June 10 – Oct. 15, $25+ camping permit required June 25 – Sept. 11
Brainard Lake Recreation Area is one of the best day trips from Boulder and is truly a photographer’s paradise. The landscape is breathtaking, especially on Pawnee Pass Trail to Lake Isabelle.
You’ll pass three alpine lakes, each more stunning than the next. Plus, the 6.6-mile loop is moderate and suitable for most hikers’ abilities. I’d recommend this trail even to beginners since it’s easy to navigate and sees plenty of traffic. You’ll likely see others, should you need help!
The wildlife viewing opportunities make Brainard Lake Recreation Area even more special. It’s one of the region’s best places to spot moose. Just make sure to keep your distance and consider leaving pups at home, especially during autumn’s rutting season!
Mud Lake Open Space
This little park near downtown Nederland features easy trails, perfect for strollers, dogs, and all abilities.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 678-6200 | Website | Hours: Sunrise – sunset | Entrance: Free
My husband and I discovered Mud Lake Open Space on our most recent trip to Nederland and we absolutely loved it. This beautiful park is especially perfect for families, in my opinion. The hiking trails are easy to navigate — even with strollers.
Parents to pups will also enjoy this mountain park. Dogs are allowed on leash, unlike at the adjacent Caribou Ranch Open Space. Plus, you’re less likely to encounter moose and bears compared to more remote hiking regions near Nederland.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Drive this stunning route from Black Hawk to Estes Park, enjoying day trip activities along the way.
Website | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Rocky Mountain National Park tour on Viator
My favorite way to enter Rocky Mountain National Park is via the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. You’ll start in Black Hawk and make your way north to Estes Park, the gateway to the park. Few routes allow you to experience as many Colorado highlights in a single day! Here are the activities I recommend:
- Explore Lanny Martin Block, one of the best-preserved sections of the Central City / Black Hawk Historic District.
- Pick up a snack at The Train Cars Coffee and Kava in downtown Nederland.
- Stop at Lily Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. This easy, 0.8-mile trail is stroller and wheelchair-friendly.
- Enjoy fun activities in Estes Park, like visiting The Stanley Hotel — a must for horror fans like myself. It’s where Steven King was inspired to writeThe Shining!
👉 Don’t Miss: Read our guide on where to stay in Estes Park if you want to make this a longer getaway!
The Train Cars Coffee and Kava
Enjoy delicious drinks, “world famous” donuts, and fascinating history at this downtown attraction.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 258-0440 | Website | Hours: 6:30 am – 10 pm Thurs – Sat, 6:30 am – 6 pm Sun – Wed
The Train Cars Coffee and Kava is a morning favorite among locals, and an absolute must when you visit Nederland. I suggest ordering its kava java, a tasty iced drink that allows you to sample both the cafe’s specialties. It also serves food — breakfast burritos and its “world famous” powdered mini donuts are popular choices!
I also recommend The Train Cars Coffee and Kava for its fascinating history. Its vintage decor is warm and charming. One of the coaches was once a circus car and part of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show!
Carousel of Happiness
This beautifully restored carousel is one of the town’s best and most affordable attractions for young children.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 258-3457 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Fri – Sat, 11 am – 5 pm Mon & Thurs, closed Tues & Wed | Entrance: $3 per ride, free for infants
The Carousel of Happiness dates to 1910 and is right next to The Train Cars Coffee and Kava. It’s just $3 per ride, a cheap thrill for young children. Your little ones will love the vibrant colors and the opportunity to select one of 57 hand-carved animals. Some move while others are stationary, great for all ages.
Crosscut Pizzeria and Taphouse
Stellar views, craft brews, and slices for every dietary preference — what more could you ask for after a day in the great outdoors?
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 258-3519 | Website | Hours: 3 – 9 pm Fri., 11:30 am – 9 pm Sat., 11:30 am – 8 pm Sun., 3 – 8 pm Mon., Wed. & Thurs., closed Tues.
The line was out the door when I visited Crosscut Pizzeria and Taphouse in downtown Nederland. But trust me, it’s worth the wait!
It’s known for its wood-fired pizzas, which serve 1-2 people and pair great with wine or craft beer. I especially love that Crosscut has vegan cheese on deck, and substitutions don’t cost extra! I’m still dreaming about my order: chilled pinot grigio and slices topped with local mushrooms and sundried tomato pesto. Gorgeous patio views complete the experience.
Eldora Ski Resort
This cross-country and alpine ski destination is easily accessible and suits a variety of skill levels.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 440-8700 | Website | Winter lift hours: 9 am – 4 pm Mon. – Fri., 8:30 am – 4 pm Sat. & Sun. | Entrance: $189+ for an Alpine day ticket, nordic day ticket TBD
I’m an avid skier and love Eldora Mountain for its accessibility. It’s one of the best ski resorts near Denver, especially for those with intermediate and advanced skills. There’s also some expert terrain, like the Salto and Moose Glades — my personal favorite. Dodging trees isn’t everyone’s thing, but this area guarantees fewer crowds.
Eldora is also a great choice if you’re into cross-country skiing. No other Nordic center is as close to Denver. Plus, it has nearly 25 miles of groomed trails so you’re sure to find something scenic and fun, no matter your abilities!
⛷️ Love Winter Sports? Check out our complete guide to the top Colorado ski resorts!
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
This destination offers backcountry campsites, scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and more outdoor recreation.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 582-3707 | Website | Hours: 5 am – 10 pm daily | Entrance: $10 daily vehicle pass, $18 camping permit
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is one of my favorite things to do in Golden. There are so many ways to experience this incredible park, but I especially recommend these activities:
- Go leaf peeping in the early autumn. You won’t want to miss the moderate, 2.6-mile Raccoon Trail loop, which features one of the park’s most dense aspen forests.
- Snowshoe the aptly named Snowshoe Hare Trail. This moderate 3-mile loop is quiet in the winter — you’re more likely to encounter songbirds and deer than other people.
- Like Lost Lake, Golden Gate Canyon offers a great introduction to backpacking. I recommend Deer Creek and Forgotten Valley sites, as they’re near water sources and only one mile from their respective trailheads.
James Peak Wilderness
This huge region features many 13,000-foot peaks — less crowded but adventurous alternatives to Colorado’s 14ers.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 295-6600 | Website | Entrance: Free
The James Peak Wilderness spans between Nederland and the western ski town of Winter Park. The mountainous terrain means that some trailheads are closer than others. Regardless, I especially recommend this region to those training for Colorado 14er hikes. It’s also a great choice if you’re seeking a similar, but less crowded experience.
The difficult, 8-mile James Peak Trail leads to its 13,294-foot summit. You’ll be wiped by the 3,000-foot ascent, but amazed by the panoramic views.
The 13,142-foot Mount Flora is a great alternative if you prefer something a bit easier. Its moderate, 6.3-mile trail gains 1,800 feet of elevation and ranks as one of the best hikes near Denver.
⚠️ Heads Up: Mount Flora is sketchy in the winter, as the trail crosses potential avalanche terrain. Instead, hike or skin up the lower Colorado Mines Peak. It and other Berthoud Pass routes are some of my favorites for backcountry skiing!
Indian Peaks Wilderness
This area’s sixteen backcountry zones meet the preferences of every hiker, backpacker, and nature enthusiast.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 295-6600 | Website | Entrance: Free, fees apply in Brainard Lake Recreation Area (Four Lakes Backcountry Zone), $17 camping permit required June 1 – Sept. 15
The sprawling Indian Peaks Wilderness is yet another outdoor destination near Nederland, Colorado. Brainard Lake Recreation Area (the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone) is its most popular region. However, you’ll find breathtaking landscapes in its other fifteen zones, too!
I highly recommend the 8-mile trek to Upper Diamond Lake. The trail gains over 2,000 feet of elevation, but the views are some of the wilderness area’s best, in my opinion. You’ll see wildflowers in summer, colorful aspens in autumn, and likely, an abundance of wildlife. Plus, the lower Diamond Lake has backcountry campsites where you can witness starry night skies.
Nederland Mining Museum
Local volunteers will be happy to show you around this free museum which houses a surprising number of artifacts.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 258-7332 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Fri – Sun, closed Mon – Thurs | Entrance: Free
The Nederland Mining Museum is a must when visiting Nederland, Colorado. I was stunned by the number of artifacts in this free, local attraction. Most small-town museums aren’t nearly as comprehensive.
I was also charmed by the volunteer staff’s enthusiasm and knowledge of the region’s mining history. You’ll want to chat with them and interact with the exhibits to get the full experience. Learn about extracting and processing ore, gold panning, and the prospectors who forged the industry.
Downtown Nederland
Local shops, restaurants, and craft breweries make up this walkable district. It’s the best place to experience Nederland’s quirky vibe.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Most downtown Nederland attractions appear along 1st Street and 2nd Street. This is where you’ll find the Nederland Visitor Center, Nederland Mining Museum, and Crosscut Pizzeria and Taphouse.
You can access more of downtown Nederland via a short walk down the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. This area between Lakeview Drive and Big Spring Drive features The Train Cars Coffee and Kava and the Carousel of Happiness.
I recommend seeing both sections of downtown, as they’re easy to access and feature fun, unique attractions. Plus, visiting shops and eateries allows you to interact with locals. This is the best way to take in Nederland’s laid-back, quirky vibe.
🍺 Meet the Locals: Coloradoans bond over craft beer! Sip some local brews at my favorite Nederland watering hole, Very Nice Brewing Company.
The Caribou Room
This mountain venue hosts up-and-coming bluegrass, funk, and rock n’ roll performers who know how to put on a show.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (303) 258-3637 | Website
The Caribou Room lies just north of downtown Nederland. It’s one of the best places to catch live music in the mountains, in my opinion. Few intimate, small-town venues do a better job with lighting, acoustics, and booking talented acts.
I especially love that its concert calendar embraces the hippie town’s reputation. Upcoming performers include Shakedown Street, a Grateful Dead tribute band, and Start Making Sense, a Talking Heads tribute. You’ll love The Caribou Room if bluegrass, funk, and rock n’ roll are a solid part of your playlists.
Central City / Black Hawk Historic District
Discover a rich history in these former mining towns, which are now known for their all-hours casinos.
📍 Google Maps | Website
The Central City / Black Hawk Historic District was once known as the “Richest Square Mile on Earth.” Today, you can view the boom era’s mining remnants and Victorian architecture. The Central City Opera House and adjacent Teller House are some of the best-preserved buildings.
However, most locals (myself included) associate the National Historic Landmark District with today’s casinos. The towns legalized gambling in 1990, inspired by Deadwood, South Dakota doing so the year prior.
Initially, the allowance was in the name of preservation. But the towns quickly built on their new reputation, opening over a dozen casinos. Nowhere else in the state is gambling more popular given the number of options, nearby hotels, and proximity to Denver.
Russell Gulch
Several structures remain standing in this Colorado ghost town which has a unique way of drawing in tourists.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Entrance: Free
Technically, there are two Colorado ghost towns near Nederland. Every similar online guide will point you to Caribou. Here are the coordinates to view the two remaining stone buildings. But you’ll be disappointed — trust me.
Rather, you should head to the more impressive Russell Gulch ghost town. Here, you can view multiple standing structures (with actual walls, not just skeleton frames). These include the IOOF Hall, a schoolhouse, a barn, and abandoned mining equipment. My favorite way to view the relics is from the Ghost Town Disc Golf Course!
FAQs About What to Do in Nederland
What are the best things to do in Nederland, Colorado?
The best things to do in Nederland, Colorado are hiking at Brainard Lake Recreation Area and skiing at Eldora Mountain. I also recommend exploring attractions in downtown Nederland.
What are the best things to do in Nederland, Colorado with kids?
The best things to do in Nederland, Colorado with kids are hiking at Mud Lake Open Space and attending an event with the Wild Bear Nature Center. I also recommend riding the Carousel of Happiness and enjoying cocoa and donuts at The Trains Cars Coffee and Kava.
What are the best things to do in Nederland, Colorado for free?
The best things to do in Nederland, Colorado for free are hiking in the Indian Peaks Wilderness and driving the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. You can also visit the Nederland Mining Museum for free.
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Thanks for reading my guide on the best things to do in Nederland, Colorado. Read our article on places to visit in Colorado for more travel inspiration!
