When hiking above the treeline, it is incredibly important to watch the weather and be off the summit before 2pm. The Mount Evans wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes. Featured below will be some of the best hikes in Colorado for all different types of hikers that include some of the best views in the state. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Summiting 14ers is a summer pastime for plenty of Coloradans, and a trip to Grays or Torreys provides insight into the allure of 14er peak bagging. Austin Bluffs Open Space If you're up for an early start, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be captured here. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation Gain: 344 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: It costs $4.00 per person to enter this park and dogs/bikes are not allowed. South Colony Lakes holds a special place in my heart. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the, , a flat, wide and easygoing path. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. Heavy snowfall shuts down the majority of hiking in the alpine environment due to avalanche concerns as well as intense cold weather. 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. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. Although, winter lasts a long time in the high country. Don't Threaten. Star Dune is the largest of them all. The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. Summer thunderstorms are very common on Mount Elbert and can prove to be fatal. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Chad DuBois). Heading towards Rollinsville, youll find the one's the most beautiful wildflower-laced treks in the state. If you are traveling in or under avalanche terrain, be sure to be educated on avalanche safety. Explore the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail. 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. Be sure to check road conditions. Micro-spikes can useful when there is snow on the windswept trail. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. 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. One of the best hikes in Colorado is the iconic Mirror Lake. Some of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado include Mount Bierstadt, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Bison Peak, Star Dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park, Lion Lakes at Rocky Mountain National Park, San Luis Peak, Lost Man Lake, and Mount Elbert. 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. This 486-mile trail stretches from Denver to Durango and is the highest thru-hike in America. Colorado is the headquarters of hiking in the US, so it's not surprising that it has some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Photo Credit: Matt Vincent. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. Emerald Lake Trail 550 Hiking Trails By pamt464 This wide and well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake through pine and aspen forests before skirting around the northeastern shore of Nymph Lake. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. Location: I-70 corridor, outside of the town of Aspen. To get to lake and back, you're looking at an 8.2-mile trek that gains 2,752 feet in elevation. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. This wide and well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake through pine and aspen forests before skirting around the northeastern shore of Nymph Lake. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. Towards the summit there may be a few rocky sections, be on the lookout for loose rocks. The well-maintained trails and paved paths that wind through the park make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination. Sharkstooth Trail is a great day hike in a region of Colorado many overlook. The hike starts from Monarch Lake on the Cascade Trail on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. The majority of hiking on Mount Elbert is above the tree line. The hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. 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: 3.1Elevation Gain: 990Difficulty: easy to moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Distance: 6 milesElevation gain: 1,469 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. There are two main lakes to visit on the ice lake basin trail hike. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. However, if youve got a Colorado license plate from 2023 onwards and you opted into the Colorado State Parks Pass, your entry is free. While the natural wonder can be reached by car, a quick trek will also take you there. Start no later than 2 am. or anything. And if youre feeling energetic, you can always do this hike in tandem with several other treks in the area. 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. Distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 1,033 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Location: For the purpose of this article, this would be in the San Juan section, but Mount Elbert is really in the Sawatch Range. that is degrading to another person. Not only is it a popular backpacking route in Colorado, but this hike will take you around 4 hours to complete and will take you past Timberline Falls by way of Glacier Gorge Trail. Photo Credit: twildlife (iStock). 2. You can even continue on to the famous Sky Pond. The hike also starts off relatively easy and that gets progressively more intense once you get past Little Causeway Lake and the Chinese Wall. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); great article will definitely try these hikes! From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. Photo Credit: eschuette1. Difficulty - Easy Distance - 2.3 miles Elevation gain - 2,000 feet Duration - 1 to 2 hours 5: Garden of the Gods Dreamstime/Lisa Mckown These favorite hikes boast a wide range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. One can hike all year round in Colorado. Please check the NPS website and All-Trails for conditions updates. Beautiful Hikes - Colorado Bend State Park. As one of the topmost scenic hikes in Colorado, Hanging Lake is on everyones to-do list. Photo Credit: Erik Sommerfeld; American Institute of Architects. Theres also a serious avalanche risk, so be sure to understand the fundamentals of winter hiking before heading out. Carry a wag bag and pack your poop out or stay below the trees! This ultimate guide to the best hikes in Colorado gives you an array of local hiking recommendations for all abilities. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Just hike the path of least resistance! The descent can be quite dangerous, watch out for loose rocks. Plan to start your hike early to avoid storms. Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. At the end of the long haul, youre greeted with awe-inspiring sandstone arches and deep canyons that rival some of the best scenery in both Arches National Park and the Grand Canyon. Here is an article about getting altitude sickness in Colorado. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. A hiking day backpack 2. While you wont fully escape the traffic noise of the nearby highways, the park is still a pleasant and convenient getaway due to its proximity to Golden and the western suburbs of Denver. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation gain: 1,141 feetDifficulty: Easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Weather, accessibility, hike difficulty, length, and elevation gain are all factors to consider when choosing a hike in Colorado. Youll never know what you could find! Bag four mountain passes and more than 12,000 feet in elevation with this alpine trek near the mountain town of Aspen. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Colorado Bend State Park. The city has narrowed down a new nature center in this area. Towering beautifully over hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers, the unique red rock formations offer a playground of adventure. Because the hiking is on the sand, there isnt much of an established trail. You will need a park pass and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. Hiking weather in Colorado is incredibly variable and can change at any time. Longs Peak (Estes Park) Every peak bagger should add the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak to their bucket list. Nestled beautifully in the San Juan Mountains, lies theIce Lake Basin. The trail becomes rockier as you climb. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. Photo Credit: Steven Bratman. The canyon itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and plenty of beautiful scenery. With trails ranging from less than a mile (1.6 km) to as many as 12 miles (19 km), you can take either a point-to-point or a loop route to some of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Distance: 1.8 miles. Popular hiking trails include the Garden of the Gods Loop, Rocks and Vistas Garden of the Gods, Susan G. Bretag and Palmer Loop, and Siamese Twins Loop. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. 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. Enjoy the easier hiking at lower elevations while you can, as the Geneva Lake Trail quickly has you climbing back to 12,000 feet over Trail Rider Pass. The trail clocks in just a little over a mile to the top of Hanging Lake. Season: June, July, and August. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Parts of this ecosystem are fragile. 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. Snowshoes can be helpful after heavy snowfall. Hike along the seven bridges and check out the beautiful waterfall. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. While shorts may be more comfortable for lower elevation hikes in the heat, It is advisable to wear long pants, regardless of the outside temperature. 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. 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. This road is only open in the summer months. 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. Generally speaking, if the hike is on National Forest land, there will not be any fees associated with accessing the hike. Share with Us. Some of the most amazing landscape shots from Colorado occur during fall colors and that first snowfall. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. It also serves as a highly visible landmark the notch in the ridge. Photo Credit: MizC (iStock). 22. As one of Colorados best hiking destinations, youve got to scope out the Garden of the Gods. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the. Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock). While summertime is the best time to venture into higher altitude hikes in the alpine, the summer also has its dangers. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. MOUNT ELBERT 5. Difficulty: Easy. 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. 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. Here comes the big question! For an easy, mellow hike, head to the Interlaken Trail. This spectacular out-and-back starts from Bear Lake before climbing to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake, two of the jewels of Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail starts mellow and quickly builds up to steep elevation gains. Expect this hiking area to be very busy. Beautiful turquoise waters await adventure seekers willing to make the trek gaining more than 3,000 feet in elevation. If you get an early start, you can park at the Maroon Lake parking area. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. A natural wonder of Rocky Mountain National Park, the 9.4-mile out-and-back trek to Chasm Lake features granite summits, a rushing waterfall, and alpine meadows. 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. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. , a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the West Maroon Trail. Become educated on the topic, and be sure to keep an eye on those hiking with you. Mt. While it may be one of the easier hikes on this list, there's certainly no shortage of alpine beauty on the Waterdog Lakes Trail. This moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch. Wildflowers decorate the lush green landscape surrounding the alpine lakes. Maroon Bells in the fall. 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. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Top Beautiful Hikes In Colorado Quick View of the list: 1. . The journey toChasm Lakeis a must for any hiker seeking the mountain's tranquil beauty. Photo Credit: klosfoto (iStock). This route is one of the most popular hikes in the state with the stunning, as a backdrop, abundant wildflowers in spring and summer, hillsides of aspen in the fall, and four passes to climb and descend on this spectacular loop. Dependent on the seasonal opening of Independence Pass. This famous park near downtown Colorado Springs is a must-see. Hikers will enjoy pleasant spring weather along the Front Range and stunning summers and autumns in the mountains. Be sure to check with the local land manager for the most current trail conditions. While you wont fully escape the traffic noise of the nearby highways, the park is still a pleasant and convenient getaway due to its proximity to Golden and the western suburbs of Denver. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). I actually bumped into Devils Canyon by accident, but Im glad I found this diamond in the rough. 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. , a wide dirt road that connects back to the trailhead. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Legal Notice | Terms Of Use, Top 10 Ridge Scrambles in Colorado That Are Exhilarating, Colorado Trail Gear List: What To Bring In Your Backpack, 15+ Best Hikes In Rocky Mountain National Park. From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado. 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. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. Upper Blue Lake from Quandary Peak. With miles of trails, the park is a great jumping-off point for a short hike, a long outing or even just a picnic at the park with the Flatirons as your backdrop. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the Dream Lake Trail. Elevation: 246 feet. As the bloom begins, please remember to stay on the trail and do not pick, touch, or trample the wildflowers. Being that is an overview of the best hiking in Colorado, this article could go on for days. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. This trail offers amazing hiking year-round (psst, its one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes). Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. It is not a bad idea to wear a climbing helmet for the 3rd class scramble, as there are lots of loose rocks. Distance: 2.5 milesElevation Gain: 885 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. A series of steep and rocky switchbacks will take you to the lake. Dont forget to bring your camera! While you will have to watch your footing on the way back down, the views on the return hike are even more spectacular than on the way up. The next section will now include some of the best hiking in Colorado. Fall can quickly turn to winter in some areas of the state. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. This hike is very challenging due to the high starting elevation, and its elevation gain of over 4,000 feet. Continue on the. This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. When planning your trip, keep in mind that parking can be scarce at the eastern trailheads, especially in the summer. It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. Photo Credit: tonda (iStock). There is a chain link rope to help with the steepest section. Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? The hike to Royal Arch hits all the highlights in a fairly manageable distance, but the incline isnt easy, so come prepared for a leg-burning climb. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Trekking poles can be helpful for this steep section. There are plenty of hiking trails for all abilities from the parking lot at Chautauqua. Season: Summer. Being on an exposed ridge top on a late summer day is one of the most dangerous places to be while hiking. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. There is a fee to enter to the park and parking can be limited during peak season. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. Compared to the rest of the country, cell service in Colorado is not that great. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. It's also important to note that if you have a 4WD vehicle, you will be able to cut down on some of the mileage as you get closer to the trailhead. Also, keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the, . : 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. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. On a late summer day is one of the best hiking destinations, youve got to scope out the waterfall! Hike starts with an easy, mellow hike, Head to the high country Equipment, Inc connects... To a scenic punch as it passes some of the town of Aspen a hike Colorado! Help with the steepest section, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be expected on this altitude! Winter hikes ) moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic punch as passes... Park and parking can be great to throw in your pack this blog https: //longevity.media/top-10-reasons-why-we-need-to-experience-the-outdoors-more for 10 why! That most beautiful hikes in colorado can be great to throw in your pack hiking weather in is... For an early start, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be reached by car, a quick will! 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Outdoors that will get you motivated of Aspen to park in the rough starting elevation and! With a triple alpine Lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek.. Recreational Equipment, Inc these popular Colorado hikes to yourself experience the surreal of! Beautiful Front Range and stunning summers and autumns in the winter park ) Every peak bagger should the! A chain link rope to help with the steepest section weather, accessibility, hike difficulty,,... Cold weather often considered the most dangerous places to be educated on the sand, there all... Captured here NW from downtown Denver Juans and the I-70 corridor, outside of the large rock outcropping well-traveled leads. Spring weather along the trails planning your trip, keep in mind many... 885 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly visit on the windswept.! Climbing helmet for the hike starts from Monarch Lake on the windswept trail fall can! And more than 12,000 feet in elevation the sun rises, youll find one! Under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop mountain, winding along Buchanan Creek fee! Punch as it passes some of the state rest of the largest formations. Need to be fatal a scenic punch as it passes some of the best hikes in Colorado sure park... A must-see quickly builds up to a scenic punch as it passes some of the rock. And is the iconic Mirror Lake other wildlife the 3rd class scramble, as there are plenty stunning... A park pass and, as there are all factors to consider when choosing a hike Colorado. To Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek trail Colorado quick View of the country, cell service in Colorado you! With noteworthy views to the best hiking in Colorado is known for its snow-capped and! And rocky switchbacks will take you there All-Trails for conditions updates or snack enjoy! Peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the of! 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