Tucked away in Rocky Mountain National Park, the hike to Alberta Falls is an easy, out and back trail that will take you to some stunning falls in the park with incredible views. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a rather unknown gem of the state. To get to lake and back, you're looking at an 8.2-mile trek that gains 2,752 feet in elevation. You dont have to venture far from the capital city to enjoy stunning mountain views. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). Once over your second pass, you get a bit of a respite on the, , which traverses a wide, high-altitude basin that is carpeted in wildflowers in season. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. Its one of the most crowded hikes in the world, so do take care to leave it better than you found it and follow all signage you are not allowed to swim in the lake. Compared to the rest of the country, cell service in Colorado is not that great. Start no later than 2 am. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. SAN LUIS PEAK 4. Cross-referencing that app with All-Trails, or the Outbound App can prove for some awesome adventures. If youre looking for an easier alternative, opt for a shorter trek toHigh Dune. Wildflower lovers will be delighted by the serene beauty found on the 401 Trail in Crested Butte. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. Distance: 8.2 milesElevation Gain: 2,870Difficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This hike becomes impassible in winter due to avalanche terrain and steep ice. The view from the summit of Mt. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Evan Ovalle). Its also one of the best Colorado backpacking trips too! Every peak bagger should add the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak to their bucket list. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Access to the park is free, but finding parking can be a challenge, so consider arriving early or taking the. Welcome to some of the mostbrilliantly cobalt blue lakes in Colorado. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. Being on an exposed ridge top on a late summer day is one of the most dangerous places to be while hiking. Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. There are plenty of hiking trails for all abilities from the parking lot at Chautauqua. 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. jmangum2. Three gorgeous mountain lakes are featured along this trail through a scenic glacial basin. Sniktau is one of the best sunset hikes in Colorado. Location: Northern front range. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. Affectionately nicknamed 'America's Switzerland', this is a popular year-round hiking spot. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. The entire trail takes around 1 month to complete as a thru-hike. Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. The "Keyhole" is main route for reaching the iconic 14,259-foot summit. Wildflowers decorate the lush green landscape surrounding the alpine lakes. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. Just hike the path of least resistance! Photo Credit: ablokhin (iStock). Season: Memorial Day through mid-October. With sandstone monoliths, tall peaks, and steep canyons, theres a lot to get exciting about when it comes to hiking in Colorado Springs. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. This loop combines The Palmer Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and the Bretang Trail to make a tour-de-garden. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. This is a heavily trafficked area, so be sure to get there early. One can experience snowstorms in June, warm weather in February, or even a sunny summer day interrupted by intense thunderstorms. Continue on another one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and attempt this semi-challenging out and back hike. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation Gain: 49 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs are allowed and youll need an advanced parking reservation or shuttle reservation when the road to the trailhead is open. You can even continue on to the famous Sky Pond. I love to escape to the red sandstone canyons outside of Fruita, Colorado every winter. Bridal Veil Falls are the highest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado, at 365 feet high. Nestled outside of the beautiful mountain town of Breckenridge, the sparkling alpine waters combined with granite views and colorful blooms offers up the perfect summer escape. The 4.5-mile path will lead you to a historical mill that now sits abandoned above the Crystal River in Gunnison County. It might be the only hike in the state to safely do barefoot! Hikes here range from short walks in Boulders Chautauqua Park to hiking Longs peak, a 14er. . Most trails are suitable for beginners, and there are even paved trails for accessible hiking. That doesnt mean this is an easy undertaking, though, and hikers should come prepared with plenty of food, water and extra clothing as hiking any 14er in Colorado involves some degree of risk due to elevation, weather and exposure. , which follows the north shore of Dream Lake and continues to climb for another half mile. Distance: 6.3 milesElevation Gain: 1,755 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dont pick or prance around in the wildflowers. 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. This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, Dont attempt Longs Peak unless you are an experienced mountain hiker who isnt afraid of exposure to steep drops and knows a thing or two about scrambling. Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? Not only is it one of the most famous hikes in the state, but its also moderately difficult and suitable for families who are trying to get used to the altitude. GARDEN OF THE GODS CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL 6. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. Back away slowly and be sure to keep a safe distance. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. 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. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography. One such hike is the Ice Lake Trail which takes hikers on a 3.7-mile journey through beautiful trees to the lake, which has a mesmerizing blue color. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Photo Credit: MargaretW (iStock). Please follow these rules when visiting and remember, when you're exploring to leave absolutely no trace. To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. It is a good idea to look into purchasing a mode of communication for emergencies such as a SPOT or a Garmin Inreach. Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. There are also great groups on Facebook that post trail conditions. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. Photo Credit: klosfoto (iStock). The journey toChasm Lakeis a must for any hiker seeking the mountain's tranquil beauty. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the Village Walk Trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path. Most segments fall within the moderate to upper end of difficult. As with any hiking day, it is especially important to drink lots of water and make sure you are eating enough. This area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado Springs. 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. Just outside of the main area of Rocky Mountain National Park, youll find the Lumpy Ridge area. Location: Northern Front Range. There are 54 peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado, and all of them have challenging hiking options! Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. 7. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. : Snowmass Village, CO, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, 11 miles southwest of Aspen, : An immersive multiday experience in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. Its rugged and long and is only hike on this list that requires a helmet. Also, try and do this trek after a rain so that the waterfall looks rad. Photo Credit: krblokhin (iStock). In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. This hike is for experienced hikers only. This is one of the more difficult 14er hikes in the state. Explore the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. Before a long and rockyscramble, hikers will have the opportunity for a bathroom break at the Chasm Junction. Once you are done enjoying the rewards of your climb, retrace your steps back down the saddle to connect to the main trail and return to the trailhead. Chasm Lake is fishable from June to October. Free shipping for many products! A series of steep and rocky switchbacks will take you to the lake. Mount Bross has been closed to the public in the past check with the current rules before summiting this peak. People die or get rescued off of this mountain every year for biting off more than they can chew. While the park is popular enough that you wont have the trails to yourself, there are miles of trails to explore so you can pick and choose your own route to either escape the crowds or follow the well-used paths to the popular viewpoints. Be Nice. From the base of Chautauqua Park, one has access to many trails that go up to the flatiron mountains and provide a wonderful view of Boulder and down to Denver. These stunning sandstone monoliths inspire the imagination. For a mellow introduction to hiking in the park, hit up the 4 iconic alpine lakes including the famous Emerald Lake along this famous hiking trail. This is hike is incredibly difficult and should only be attempted by very experienced hikers. 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. Nearly every hiker who visits Rocky takes on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond. Its a popular, but challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will take you through the gorgeous, Mount Evans Wilderness area. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The Great Sand Dunes rise almost randomly out of the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. 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. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow the. Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. Even in the winter, the Front Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike. Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. Hiking weather in Colorado is incredibly variable and can change at any time. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. As I was researching lodging near Estes Park, CO, for our 6th trip to hike Rocky Mountain National Park, I came across this list. Additional resources for planning a hiking trip to Colorado. Rattlesnake Arches is a varied challenge that can be done in a day by an avid hiker. After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Permits are required for an overnight. This is a great resource released by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Wildflower varieties seen during this time include Marsh Marigold, Parrys Primrose, Colorado columbine, owls clover, larkspur, monks hood, Sneezeweed, Old Man of the Mountain, kings crown, rose crown, elephants head, gentians, and along with many others. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. Difficulty - Easy Distance - 2.3 miles Elevation gain - 2,000 feet Duration - 1 to 2 hours 5: Garden of the Gods Dreamstime/Lisa Mckown It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. Another unique feature is. . Lets start with some common questions about hiking in Colorado. The altitude combined with lots of elevation gain makes for a tough hike. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. 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. If you're up for an early start, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be captured here. Its hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. 19. If you are looking for some of the most dramatic mountain views in the United States, the San Juans are the place to be. As a Colorado local and writer for the outdoor industry, Im a total pro at hitting the most amazing hikes in Colorado without the crowds. This road is only open in the summer months. Related: The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. The High Dune gives a spectacular view of this one-in-a-kind national park. After living in Colorado for over 12 years, Ive scoured the landscape to find the best hikes in Colorado. Also, keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the West Maroon Trail. No matter what you're looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in Colorado to suit your needs. Distance: 7.8 milesElevation Gain: 1,637 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. The hike to, hits all the highlights in a fairly manageable distance, but the incline isnt easy, so come prepared for a leg-burning climb. At just over 6 miles round-trip and located about a 90-minute drive from Denver, this peak is one of the more accessible 14ers in the state. For an easy and beautiful Colorado hike that is as short and sweet as it is iconic, look no further than the Garden of the Gods and its Perkins Central Garden Trail! For example, if you were flying in from sea level, it would be dangerous to try and hike a 14er the next morning. This is a must-do in the San Juans if you are up for a challenging hike. 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. Youll never know what you could find! Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. If you are looking for a shorter or easier outing, the Bear Lake Trail, which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Become educated on the topic, and be sure to keep an eye on those hiking with you. Due to the low level of difficulty and its proximity to Denver, this hike can get very popular. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation gain: 3,093 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is a well-known spot. United States ; Texas (TX) Bend ; Bend - Things to Do ; Colorado Bend State Park; Search. The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. Enjoy the scenery from the trail to avoid tramping this beloved environment. A list of amazing hikes in Colorado, organized by the most iconic hikes and location. Parts of this ecosystem are fragile. Backcountry campsites are available by permit if you need more time to enjoy the view! Snowshoes can be helpful after heavy snowfall. Hiking has been a popular Colorado activity since the Colorado Trail was created in the 1970s. On the west side, you will spot the famous, , and to the east, White Rock. While the natural wonder can be reached by car, a quick trek will also take you there. Here is an article about getting altitude sickness in Colorado. Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). Palmer Park: Best Hiking Trail in Colorado Springs. The trail ends at the natural rock arch of Royal Arch, which offers a unique vantage point of Boulder and views to the north and south along the Front Range. TheDecalibron Looptraverses over fourColorado 14ersin Pike National Forest located near the mountain town of Alma. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. Location: San Juans, near the town of Telluride. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The white and lavender Rocky Mountain Columbine, designated as the official state flower, can be found sprouting along the trail. These favorite hikes boast a wide range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Colorado, and for good reason. Waste does not break down this high up. You can also access one of the best hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and then set off from there. : Breckenridge, CO, in the Arapaho National Forest, 88 miles southwest of Denver, Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Opt to get their early or make it an overnight to get more time. Fall can quickly turn to winter in some areas of the state. I actually bumped into Devils Canyon by accident, but Im glad I found this diamond in the rough. This 737-acre city park offers more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. 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. For this reason, it's best to always keep pets leashed. While hiking is generally free in Colorado, national parks and now more of the best state parks in Colorado are requiring visitors without a vehicle to pay an entrance fee. Photo Credit: John Fowler OutThere Colorado. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. Head up early to catch a perfect reflection of the stunning Lone Eagle Peak on Mirror Lake. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the evening. Location: I-70 corridor, a little under 3-hour drive from Denver. Once over your second pass, you get a bit of a respite on the Fravert Basin Trail, which traverses a wide, high-altitude basin that is carpeted in wildflowers in season. No dogs. Peak baggers up for the challenge can also summit Kit Carson and Challenger Point accessed along this same trail. While opting for the alpine wonder is suitable for a wider range of hiking skill levels, Colorado 14er climbing is only recommend for the most experienced hikers. The hike is fairly strenuous and takes anywhere from 10 to 15 hours to complete, so be sure to plan accordingly. or anything. The unbelievable electric blue waters of Ice Lake make this one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. "We home school in the morning or when the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a family. 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