Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Also, try and do this trek after a rain so that the waterfall looks rad. Location: I-70 corridor, outside of the town of Aspen. Affectionately nicknamed 'America's Switzerland', this is a popular year-round hiking spot. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. 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. Take in the history of the ruins while enjoying the scenery of the mountains and the city of Denver in the distance. 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. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. But Victoria's .SUNshine Girl Emily, a 5-foot-7, hazel-eyed Taurus who posed for us in 2018, loves yoga, hiking, writing in her journal and skiing. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow the. Here is an article about getting altitude sickness in Colorado. 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. Hiking at Garden of the Gods is one of the top-rated things to do in Colorado. Due to the high exposure of this hike, be sure to bring plenty of warm clothes with you, all year round! Near the southern end of the loop, you can branch onto the. At 13,420 feet, Pacific Tarn is the highest alpine lake in the United States, and you can have it all to yourself. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation gain: 1,446 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and very crowded. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the evening. 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. There are several parking areas located along Gold Camp Road and while none are very large, you will have a few lots to choose from. Snow can last on this hike well into June. 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. Thin, long pants can be very breathable and will prevent injury from low-lying branches scratching up against you on the trails. MOUNT ELBERT 5. A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. 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. Distance: 8.6 miles roundtrip. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass Trail back to the trailhead to complete the loop. Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. Please be sure to visit the RMNP website for more information on the current permitting process for parking and entrance to the park. Here are the regions we will use. If hiking the loop counterclockwise, start on the, , which is best accessed from the Section 16 Trailhead on Gold Camp Road. Be sure to arrive early to find a parking spot as space is limited and the trail is busy during the summer. No matter what you're looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in Colorado to suit your needs. The entire trail takes around 1 month to complete as a thru-hike. The first snowfall up high can occur as early as the first week of September! The next section will now include some of the best hiking in Colorado. This is a great resource released by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. 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. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. 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. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, Yellow and pink varieties of wildflowers bloom along the alpine tundra as the creek waters gently tumble. 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. SAN LUIS PEAK 4. Today, outdoor enthusiasts continue to visit from all over . This trail appears to dead-end at Mirror Lake, a small lake with Lone Eagle Peak in the background. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation gain: 1,141 feetDifficulty: Easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise For more information, please visit the town of Glenwood Springs website. 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 trail is 18 miles out-and-back in length and climbs 2,719 feet in elevation as you weave through the lush landscapes of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). This also has a high concentration of popular 14er hikes. There was an error processing your request. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Torreys sits at 14,267 feet and offers equally stunning views. Living up to its namesake, this beautiful alpine lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that seem to defy gravity. The Dream Lake Trail continues to climb from Nymph Lake up into Tyndall Gorge, crossing Tyndall Creek before coming to the eastern edge of Dream Lake. Just outside of the main area of Rocky Mountain National Park, youll find the Lumpy Ridge area. . , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Comfy pair of hiking boots 3. If you are traveling in or under avalanche terrain, be sure to be educated on avalanche safety. 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. Upper Blue Lake from Quandary Peak. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Fall is popular timing to make the trek. The majority of the roads up to the high alpine backcountry do not open until June every season. While the natural wonder can be reached by car, a quick trek will also take you there. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. Dependent on the seasonal opening of Independence Pass. 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. Micro-spikes and snowshoes can be necessary during the winter months (October-April). Dog poop bags to carry out dog poop. Near the southern end of the loop, you can branch onto the Sleeping Giant Trail, a short loop off the main paved path that leads to the base of the Sleeping Giant rock formation. Distance: 14 milesElevation gain: 2,444 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Some scrambling required, but nothing too strenuous. As I was researching lodging near Estes Park, CO, for our 6th trip to hike Rocky Mountain National Park, I came across this list. The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. Be sure to have the right education and the right gear. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. Additionally, the road to the trailhead is closed seasonally, usually from December to April. There are different difficulties of hiking for all levels and interests. Thunderstorms can be incredibly dangerous, and even fatal. However, if youve got a Colorado license plate from 2023 onwards and you opted into the Colorado State Parks Pass, your entry is free. Sniktau is one of the best sunset hikes in Colorado. 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. The stairs are steep, and while there are railings the entire way, those who fear heights may choose to enjoy the view from the ground. Blue Lakes Trail leads hikers through Mt. This is one of the more difficult 14er hikes in the state. Rise early to catch a mountain sunrise guaranteed to leave you speechless. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. . Acclimatize properly. Others also have parking fees. best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, The only 4-day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Youll Ever Need. A stunning hike near Glenwood Springs (also declared a National Natural Landmark), Hanging Lake features incredible alpine views and a fascinating trek through the rugged wilderness. Be sure to be physically prepared for this hike. A look at the tail-end of a sunrise as it hits the boulder field just below the Keyhole. As one of the topmost scenic hikes in Colorado, Hanging Lake is on everyones to-do list. To get to the lakes, you'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. Waste does not break down this high up. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Nestled beautifully in the San Juan Mountains, lies theIce Lake Basin. Trails throughout the park offerstunning views of Pikes Peak America's Mountain. Related: The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Emerald Lake Trail 550 Hiking Trails By pamt464 Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. Sneffels allows one to get a great sense of just how vast the San Juans really are. This is a 7.8-mile with 1920-feet elevation gain. Pants will also be nice to have in case of a rogue thunderstorm. 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. This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation Gain: 864Difficulty: easyRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail gets crowded and if you cant park in the Bear Lake Lot, youll be taking the bus in. This 737-acre city park offers more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Tucked into the Sangre de Cristo Range, the Grand Sand Dunes are the tallest dunes on the continent, with heights up to 755 feet sitting below a scenic mountain backdrop. Photo Credit: Zach Dischner. Afterward, check out the sights in nearby Dillon, Frisco, and Breckenridge. On the west side, you will spot the famous Kissing Camels, and to the east, White Rock. Threats of harming another If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. She is also known for being a bookworm and owning more running shoes than most people would consider socially acceptable. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. This is one of Colorados most famous lakes. Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. The natural wonder can be found just below American Peak. 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. Don't miss this trek deep in the heart of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake. Here comes the big question! Season: All year round. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. It also serves as a highly visible landmark the notch in the ridge. The Royal Arch is a spectacular rock formation that forms an arch. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. The road is open all year round, but for best conditions, plan to do this hike in June, July, and August. Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. How many trails have you hiked? 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. It is very crowded, but also a very well maintained park. person will not be tolerated. The trail to the lake isnt particularly difficult, but it is long. Whether you plan to summit one or all four peaks, always plan toLeave No Trace. Even in the winter, the Front Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. The trail climbs gradually for the first 2 miles, heading south around Kelso Mountain before turning west, where you will spot the two 14ers and the saddle connecting them. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. Being that is an overview of the best hiking in Colorado, this article could go on for days. The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. However, if you plan on adventuring above the trees, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. other alpine lakes, including Nymph and Dream. Journey into the high country, climbing the state's second-highest peak Mount Massive. Thanks for the article! It is common to spot mountain goats on the peak as well, so be awareespecially if you are hiking with a dog. Where should I hike in Colorado? 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. This hike is very challenging due to the high starting elevation, and its elevation gain of over 4,000 feet. These geographical regions are subjective but will provide a good layout of hiking in the state. Pacific Tarn in the Tenmile Range. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. Just hike the path of least resistance! Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. This trail is dog-friendly, but dogs are not allowed past this point. Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? You can also access one of the best hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and then set off from there. The start of the trail is fairly well-packed singletrack. The 4.5-mile path will lead you to a historical mill that now sits abandoned above the Crystal River in Gunnison County. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. There's also a 7.25-mile route up the southwest side for those with a high clearance 4WD vehicle. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. 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. DEVIL'S HEAD LOOKOUT 7. 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. Garden of the Gods is not only one of the most scenic places in Colorado, but the trails that trace through this landscape also make up some of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado too. These favorite hikes boast a wide range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure. Headed back east, Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most unexpectedly beautiful places in Colorado. 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. Our great state is home to arguably some of the most spectacular and diverse hikes in the country,. The Keyhole Route on Longs Peak is an iconic mountain climb that many people strive for. Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense. Distance: 6.7 milesElevation gain: 764 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. 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. While there is plenty of hiking all year round, hiking into the high alpine is best during July and August. Photo Credit: John Fowler OutThere Colorado. For some parts of the state, it is starting to get warmer, and the flowers are blooming. This large area will include hiking near the popular ski resorts of Colorado. Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. In many parts of the state, fall colors highlight the woods. 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. It includes Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Rico. Enjoy beautiful red rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. Backcountry campsites are available by permit if you need more time to enjoy the view! From there you are only a few hours from incredible hiking destinations! Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. Fall can quickly turn to winter in some areas of the state. This trail offers amazing hiking year-round (psst, its one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes). This famous park near downtown Colorado Springs is a must-see. The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. Dont underestimate the difficulty of this route. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. Photo Credit: Matt Vincent. Photo Credit: MargaretW (iStock). Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. 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. When it comes to hiking in Colorado, there are year-round options. 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. 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. Photo Credit: marekuliasz (iStock). The first mile is a gentle climb, winding through red rock formations and scrub oak. We'd love to hear eyewitness Ascending further up the trail, you'll find mine ruins just before reaching lower Mohawk Lake. 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. Treasure Falls, Colorado 81147, USA. Photo by Michael DeLuca on Flickr: https://flic.kr/p/xqh4Zk. Be on the lookout for more articles in the future for the best 14er hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. As one of the classic Boulder hikes, youll get an up-close view of the famous Flatirons. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, It is very important to be off of the summit in the early afternoon to prevent exposure to thunderstorms. The family have visited 15 national parks and visited 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone. Sneffels Wilderness and to the base of one of Colorado's most popular 14ers. In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. 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. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. The easiest thing you can do to prevent altitude sickness is drink water and make sure you do not ascent too much in one day. Local Tip: If youre into gentle rock climbs, then check out the Longs Peak Cable Route. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Chad DuBois). (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Evan Ovalle). Season: Summer; June, July, and August. Ive spent a lot of time on these trails without a soul in sight. 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. Bursting with beauty, the trail features rushing alpine waters, wildflower meadows, and a variety of wildlife including bear, elk, moose, deer, and marmots. Success! Youll never know what you could find! It also depends on the snow year. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. or anything. Colorado Springs also has a great number of hikes close to town and is under the shadow of Pikes Peak, a 14er. Located a little over an hour away from Denver, near Silver Plume, Colorado is this amazing trail. Its $25 to enter the park. Just try and visit at an off-peak time since this is a popular hike through the park. Continue on another one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and attempt this semi-challenging out and back hike. 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. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Horizontal. Theres something iconic about the sprawling Sawatch Range. This ultimate guide to the best hikes in Colorado gives you an array of local hiking recommendations for all abilities. 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. The hike starts from Monarch Lake on the Cascade Trail on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. Although, winter lasts a long time in the high country. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. Photo Credit: Ashley Bennett. Longs Peak. Fall is one of the best times to hike in Colorado. Dogs and fishing are also not allowed. Photo Credit: James Harris Photography, While exploring American Basin, add Sloan Lake to your bucket list. Now more than 100 years old, this is the one remaining fire tower in service. Even seasoned mountain hikers will love the glorious views. Distance: 8.9 milesElevation gain: 2,286 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail mostly follows a road and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to reach the upper trailhead. Be Truthful. 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. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. Each alpine wonder offers a serene escape laced with captivating mountain beauty. The descent can be quite dangerous, watch out for loose rocks. This guide includes: Get oriented with this map of Colorado Hikes. 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. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. After living in Colorado for over 12 years, Ive scoured the landscape to find the best hikes in Colorado. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. This hike provides a great introduction to hiking in Colorado and the Boulder Open Space trails. After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto. Helmet required. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. Join once, enjoy forever. 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On this high altitude trek be great to throw in your pack Boulder hikes, youll find the hikes. The Heart of the Gods is one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes ) elevation changes as ascend. Frigid Air Pass, climbing the state outside of the most hiked 14ers in the state destination... Cant miss the red rocks trail to the park some Easy switchbacks through Aspen and pine groves, winding Buchanan... Planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow the Buckskin Pass trail back to the base of of... Park near downtown Colorado Springs also has a great sense of just how vast the San mountains... To some of the best times to hike in Colorado your Colorado adventure a must-see so be awareespecially you!