Hikers can bag four peaks in a single day trek including Mount Bross (14,172 feet), Mount Lincoln (14,286 feet), Mount Cameron (14,238 feet) and Mount Democrat (14,148 feet). Don't Threaten. The well-maintained trails and paved paths that wind through the park make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination. Photo Credit: James Walton. There is a chain link rope to help with the steepest section. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Season: All year round. Distance: 7.5 milesElevation gain: 2,782 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs allowed on a leash. : Estes Park, CO, in Rocky Mountain National Park, 50 miles northwest of Boulder, : A tour of three picturesque lakes in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, With more than 300 miles of trails and some of the best-known scenery in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-loved hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. Expect this hiking area to be very busy. The final climb is very rocky, and the going will be slow, but topping out at the official summit marker is well worth the effort. Whether you are looking for easy day hikes, gorgeous multiday backpacking trips or views (and elevation gain) that will take your breath away, the Centennial State does not disappoint. Be sure to be physically prepared for this hike. Be sure to check on trail conditions using All-Trails, or by contacting the proper park manager to inquire about trail conditions. Dont forget to bring your camera! Each alpine wonder offers a serene escape laced with captivating mountain beauty. Segment 11 at the Mount Massive Trailhead. Explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a sunny weekend. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation gain: 1,446 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and very crowded. A hiking day backpack 2. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. Typically the trail is snow-free from mid-June through mid-October. You can even continue on to the famous Sky Pond. This article will mainly focus on some of the best day hikes. Another unique feature is. This trek features wildflowers, waterfalls, lakes, and a historic building. Around 11,700 feet, the trees thin out entirely, and you can see the ridge that you will be climbing to the west. If you like rocks, this place fits the bill. 20 Most Beautiful Hikes in Colorado. When it comes to hikes in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Dog-friendly. Garden of the Gods is a popular hiking destination located in Colorado Springs. This is another great 14er hike to do in the I-70 area. The best hikes in Colorado are a great way to experience the state's terrain with 39,000 miles of trails of varying lengths, difficulty levels, and scenery. As was mentioned above, some roads are closed for portions of the year, it is important to check on those closures. In fact, there are five different hikes in this area that range in length from 1 to 13 miles (round trip) and that vary in difficulty between easy and moderate. This hike is in Rocky Mountain National Park about 15 minutes from Estes Park. Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense. It provides stunning views of three different lakes and Hallet Peak, a 11,000-foot mountain that is popular amongst rock climbers. Keep in mind, youll need to shuttle cars from point A to point B if youre section hiking. On the west side, you will spot the famous, , and to the east, White Rock. The hike to Grays, and then onto Torreys gains a total of 3,479 feet in a little over four miles, following a section of the Continental Divide Trail. The Dream Lake Trail continues to climb from Nymph Lake up into Tyndall Gorge, crossing Tyndall Creek before coming to the eastern edge of, . To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. This hike includes two different 14ers! Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). Need 2 get out see the others ! This stunning hike brings one to one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado. For the more alpine regions, spring can either still be winter, or it can be very muddy. However, theres plenty to see here. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. This area is known for its heavy winds. Distance: 5.1 milesElevation gain: 885 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. This trail is accessible in the winter, but due to road closures, it would add upwards of 7 miles each way. If you are looking for some of the most dramatic mountain views in the United States, the San Juans are the place to be. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow theLeave No Tracebest practices. This is my favorite place to take out-of-town visitors on a scenic jaunt. She is also known for being a bookworm and owning more running shoes than most people would consider socially acceptable. There are plenty of options to expand or shrink your route. When she isnt running, she works as a trail content editor for Trail Run Project, where she now gets to spend her day dreaming about trails and adventuringthe perfect job since she cant run 24/7. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. Evans as well. Clocking in over 27 miles, the Four Pass Loop climbs over four beautiful mountain passes. From the deep Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the highest point in Colorado on Mount Elbert, there is a lifetime of hiking to explore. The intense heat of the summer makes the high-altitude areas prime for late afternoon thunderstorms. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. Explore the most popular trails in my list 101 most beautiful hikes in colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Backcountry campsites are available by permit if you need more time to enjoy the view! Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. Hiking weather in Colorado is incredibly variable and can change at any time. This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the Perkins Central Garden Trail, a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. If you are looking for the quintessential Indian Peaks hike, the out-and-back to Crater Lake from Monarch Lake offers a great mix of scenery and terrain, as well as a stunning destination. Keep it Clean. Between the general region of the San Juans and the southern front range. Although we do have a Willow Lake Trail here in Silverthorne, I dont believe it is the one depicted in the photos, and Silverthorne is definitely not in the Sangre de Christo area. As with all above-treeline routes, start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and be sure to pack appropriately with food, water, sunscreen and extra layers. This is a family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. You will spot one large waterfall about a mile east of Hasley Basin where the panoramic view also includes the backside of the Maroon Bells. Photo credit: TRAILSOURCE.COM (flickr), If you're looking to spend a little more time in nature, take to the trails by exploring one of the largest wilderness areas in the state the Weminuche Wilderness. Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. Hiking at Garden of the Gods is one of the top-rated things to do in Colorado. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. Looking east from this vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver. Teens and pre-teens are one of the most sought-after spending crowds, with retailers looking for ways to win their business. 2. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. GREAT Trail's,been on some of them. An overflow of alpine beauty awaits on a serene trek into the San Juan Mountains on the American Basin Trail near Lake City. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). The first mile is a gentle climb, winding through red rock formations and scrub oak. A small baggie to pack out trash such as fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper, and other waste. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. Found in Rocky Mountain National Park, cross the natural wonder of Emerald Lakeoff your bucket list. If you are looking for the quintessential Indian Peaks hike, the out-and-back to Crater Lake from Monarch Lake offers a great mix of scenery and terrain, as well as a stunning destination. Don't knowingly lie about anyone The Mount Evans wilderness area is a great place to make for a full day of hiking and driving up to some spectacular exposed views. For more information, please visit the town of Glenwood Springs website. . Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. The first snowfall up high can occur as early as the first week of September! For the purpose of this article, we will divide the state into different regions and look at some of the best hikes in different parts of the state. For example, if you were flying in from sea level, it would be dangerous to try and hike a 14er the next morning. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. The hike starts on the Devils Head Trail #611, a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Please check the NPS website and All-Trails for conditions updates. Even for someone that lives in Colorado, anyone can get altitude sickness when hiking up high, most commonly above 8,000 feet. Photo Credit: eschuette1. I actually bumped into Devils Canyon by accident, but Im glad I found this diamond in the rough. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. The altitude combined with lots of elevation gain makes for a tough hike. Chief Mountain. This is a 7.8-mile with 1920-feet elevation gain. People die or get rescued off of this mountain every year for biting off more than they can chew. Local Tip: If youre. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. Difficulty: Easy. Adding another Colorado 14er combo to the summer bucket list, the Grays and Torreys Trail is packed with both beauty and challenge. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. Spencer McKee takes in sweeping alpine views on the Mount Massive trail. Some notable segments are: While its difficult to choose one, the prettiest hike in Colorado is probably the hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Swimming, dipping body parts into the water, standing under or on top of waterfalls, and walking on the fallen trees within the lake are strictly prohibited. Torreys sits at 14,267 feet and offers equally stunning views. Its $25 to enter the park. Located in the mountains west of Boulder, Indian Peaks Wilderness is a remarkable wilderness area with miles of pristine trails and many access points on both sides of the Continental Divide. : Colorado Springs, CO, in Garden of the Gods, 6 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs, : A family-friendly excursion to see the impressive red rocks of Garden of the Gods, The towering red rock formations of Garden of the Gods create a memorable backdrop for this easily accessible hike located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Longs Peak. Its my mission to get you out on the best Colorado hiking trails like a local, not a tourist. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. Most visitors enter through the east side of the park near the town of Estes Park. From the deep Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the highest point in Colorado on Mount Elbert, there is a lifetime of hiking to explore. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Be Truthful. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. Peaks of granite tower over the alpine waters creating a stunning backdrop for hikers and backpackers. There was an error processing your request. It is not a bad idea to wear a climbing helmet for the 3rd class scramble, as there are lots of loose rocks. Hikers will enjoy pleasant spring weather along the Front Range and stunning summers and autumns in the mountains. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). Breathtaking is an appropriate way to describe the loop in many ways, as the route gains more than 7,300 feet and climbs above 12,000 feet at four different passesBuckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Airand West Maroon. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. A fantastic way to explore hiking trails on public land in Colorado is via the Colorado Trail Explorer App. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes. Although short, theres quite a bit of gain on this hike, making it moderate in difficulty. Distance: 6.0 milesElevation gain: 1,637 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and best used between June and September. A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike. . For one of the best hikes in Colorado to get a flavor of the whole state, you need this hike It is located in White River National Park and the Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes trail offers one of the best hikes. REI member since 2018. Difficulty - Easy Distance - 2.3 miles Elevation gain - 2,000 feet Duration - 1 to 2 hours 5: Garden of the Gods Dreamstime/Lisa Mckown In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. If you are in the area for this hike, it is worth it to drive to the summit of Mt. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. Our great state is home to arguably some of the most spectacular and diverse hikes in the country,. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. Just hike the path of least resistance! Nature & Parks, State Parks. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. Combine this hike with one of the most scenic drives near Denver for an epic day outside. Opt to get their early or make it an overnight to get more time. From here, you briefly connect to the. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. It is tough to narrow down the best Colorado hiking trails and hikes, but you definitely cant go wrong with any of these ones. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Chad DuBois). check out this blog https://longevity.media/top-10-reasons-why-we-need-to-experience-the-outdoors-more for 10 reasons why we need to be more outdoors that will get you motivated. For an added bonus, time your hike to catch the sunrise or sunset. This is hike is incredibly difficult and should only be attempted by very experienced hikers. 5 Must-Have Hiking Essentials 1. Pictures don't do the lakes justice. This is probably the most popular 14er hike in the Denver region. Photo Credit: Savannah Hodge. This will prevent injuries while hiking on rocky ground. There are 54 peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado, and all of them have challenging hiking options! After passing by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of the Three Spires and Cathedral Spire. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. The magnificent Maroon bell mountains tower over Maroon lake. Snowshoes and micro-spikes can be used on higher elevation trails well into May. Whether you are looking for easy day hikes, gorgeous multiday backpacking trips or views (and elevation gain) that will take your breath away, the Centennial State does not disappoint. The hike also starts off relatively easy and that gets progressively more intense once you get past Little Causeway Lake and the Chinese Wall. Distance: 14 milesElevation gain: 2,444 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Some scrambling required, but nothing too strenuous. This hike has fantastic views of the mountains in the front range and Summit county. Its almost a rite of passage to hike this iconic hiking trail in Colorado. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. If you are searching for a first-time hike or are visiting the park for a single day, look no further than the hike to Emerald Lake. Kristen is a native Coloradan and longtime runner who enjoys running on the track, roads and now on the trails. This gentle trail meanders its way along a deep sandstone canyon where you can admire monolithic sandstone towers whose beauty rivals that of nearby Moab. Theres a saying in Colorado that goes west slope best slope. This area of the state isnt as easy to access compared to other hiking areas closer to Denver. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. The 13.6-mile path winds beautifully through the high country of knee-high spring blooms with specular views of the Gothic Valley and Mount Crested Butte. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. Bursting with beauty, the trail features rushing alpine waters, wildflower meadows, and a variety of wildlife including bear, elk, moose, deer, and marmots. From easygoing hikes in the many state and local parks within driving distance of major cities like Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder and Colorado Springs, to the hidden backcountry gems found in the remote wilderness and national forest areas, you have your pick of some of the best hiking in the Mountain West. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. So, try and visit on a quiet weekday morning to avoid the crowds and take in the Fountain and Lyons rock formations that surround you. Photo Credit: Matt Vincent. The standard route features a 14-mile class two climb up the eastern slopes. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. This is an amazing hike in the San Juans that features two incredibly blue and green lakes that are surrounded by towering peaks. Distance: 3 milesElevation gain: 1,135 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go for sunrise. Season: Summer; June, July, and August. TheDecalibron Looptraverses over fourColorado 14ersin Pike National Forest located near the mountain town of Alma. Trailhead Location: Pandora Public Parking and Trailhead. Location: San Juans, near the town of Telluride. Also, keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife. You will spot one large waterfall about a mile east of Hasley Basin where the panoramic view also includes the backside of the Maroon Bells. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. Its hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. Rattlesnake Arches is a varied challenge that can be done in a day by an avid hiker. and reveals the even more stunning view of Lone Eagle Peak and Mount Achonee towering above the lake. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. The incredibly large region of the San Juan mountains includes some of the highest and most rugged hiking in the state. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. Winter brings solitude through deep snow in the woods. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must, at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. Its also only 3.2 miles long and takes you past some gorgeous alpine lakes. Its also an iconic beginner Colorado 14er so if you can, come early (start before 5 am to beat the crowds, 6 am to hike safely and avoid summer storm cycles). From Bluebell Road, turn onto the Royal Arch Trail. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Arrive at the TH before 7 am. The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. This is a great resource released by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Colorado, and for good reason. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. Photo Credit: Zach Dischner. You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. Not all public lands are free to enter. Comfy pair of hiking boots 3. In many parts of the state, fall colors highlight the woods. Location: I-70 corridor, outside of the town of Aspen. 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O. GARDEN OF THE GODS CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL 6. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. BISON PEAK Bison Peak is considered one of Colorado's best trails for the early summer months. Dog-friendly. Be sure to have the right education and the right gear. While there is plenty of hiking all year round, hiking into the high alpine is best during July and August. accounts, the history behind an article. Many hikes in Colorado are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Once you catch your first glimpse, it's not hard to see why this is a highly trafficked hike. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. This trail appears to dead-end at Mirror Lake, a small lake with Lone Eagle Peak in the background. The trail is broken into 28 segments, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Distance: 1.5 milesElevation gain: 406 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: no dogs allowed. If you are planning to do the hike as a quick overnight backpacking trip, you will need a, , and all visitors will need to pay the small fee to park at the, on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. Located about one hour from Denver, this popular hike leads to an extraordinary destinationDevils Head Lookout. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Prepare properly for scrambling a Colorado 14er and understand the risks you are getting into. In the spring, you may spot wildflowers like columbines, and there are a few groves of aspen that give a pop of golden color in the fall. Dogs and fishing are also not allowed. We use affiliate links in our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases. Generally speaking, areas above 9,000 feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow. person will not be tolerated. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin, The trailhead to Hanging Lake is located off of I-70, complete with a small parking lot and rest stop bathroom. Here is an article about getting altitude sickness in Colorado. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Micro-spikes can useful when there is snow on the windswept trail. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to world-class hiking trails. In the summer, wildflowers are abundant. 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