Colorado Bend State Park. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. Dog-friendly. For some parts of the state, it is starting to get warmer, and the flowers are blooming. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Snowshoes are recommended in the early season. From there you are only a few hours from incredible hiking destinations! 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. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. Windom Peak via Needle Creek Trail is a 17.8 mile moderately trafficked trail that gains roughly 5,879 feet in elevation and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. Start no later than 2 am. Continue on the Emerald Lake Trail, which follows the north shore of Dream Lake and continues to climb for another half mile. takes you up and over Buckskin Pass with amazing views in all directions before descending to the scenic, Enjoy the easier hiking at lower elevations while you can, as the, quickly has you climbing back to 12,000 feet over Trail Rider Pass. There was an error processing your request. Nestled in the Indian Peaks Wilderness lies the wow-worthy granite spectacle. The round-trip journey clocks in at about 2.1 miles gaining close to 900 feet in elevation. The magnificent Maroon bell mountains tower over Maroon lake. This is one of the best hikes in Colorado that sits just outside of Boulder meaning that it is only about a 30-minute drive away from Denver. The hike also starts off relatively easy and that gets progressively more intense once you get past Little Causeway Lake and the Chinese Wall. Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Horizontal. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. This beautiful alpine lake is tucked away at thebase of Longs Peak, one of the most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state. Seven Bridges Trail, North Cheyenne Canon Park. It is a good idea to look into purchasing a mode of communication for emergencies such as a SPOT or a Garmin Inreach. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the Dream Lake Trail. Photo Credit: John Fielder. In Boulder, Colorado, the Chautauqua walking trails offer a variety of beautiful day hikes in Colorado. Photo Credit: John Fowler OutThere Colorado. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. Royal Arch is one of the most popular local trails, and provides some of the best views in the area! It is important to always bring extra layers and a waterproof jacket while hiking in Colorado. "We home school in the morning or when the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a family. Season: All year-round. Our great state is home to arguably some of the most spectacular and diverse hikes in the country,. Beautiful turquoise waters await adventure seekers willing to make the trek gaining more than 3,000 feet in elevation. Another unique feature is Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. Everybody knows about them, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this fire tower was one of seven built in the early 1900s. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Photo Credit: John Fielder. If you are planning to do the hike as a quick overnight backpacking trip, you will need a permit, and all visitors will need to pay the small fee to park at the Monarch Lake Trailhead. North Cheyenne Canon is a very rugged hiking destination with access to gorgeous windy roads through the mountains. . Local Tip: If youre into gentle rock climbs, then check out the Longs Peak Cable Route. . Many hikes in Colorado are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle. Need 2 get out see the others ! Once you catch your first glimpse, it's not hard to see why this is a highly trafficked hike. Continue on the. 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. For more information about hiking in the Boulder area, check out our article on the best hikes in Boulder. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a rather unknown gem of the state. Don't miss this trek deep in the heart of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake. . From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado. 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. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. 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. Photo Credit: klosfoto (iStock). With staple 14ers like Pikes Peak and Mount Evans towering above the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains to the west, the views on a clear day are astonishing. There are plenty of options to expand or shrink your route. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. As one of the classic Boulder hikes, youll get an up-close view of the famous Flatirons. Dog poop bags to carry out dog poop. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Best enjoyed in the summer and fall, hiking in the Sawatch should be on everyones to-do list. You will need a park pass and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. A small baggie to pack out trash such as fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper, and other waste. Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. 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. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. This will prevent your legs from getting cold and dirty! each comment to let us know of abusive posts. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass Trail back to the trailhead to complete the loop. 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. REI member since 2018. Segment 11 at the Mount Massive Trailhead. Photo Credit: Steven Bratman. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Waterfalls of Minnesota: Your Guide to the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the Stat at the best online prices at eBay! Even in the winter, the Front Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike. Hike in the morning on a weekday for some solitude. Quick rainstorms and thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the high country. If you arent cozy pooping in a bag and packing it out, stay home. The 4.5-mile path will lead you to a historical mill that now sits abandoned above the Crystal River in Gunnison County. 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. Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). For example, if you were flying in from sea level, it would be dangerous to try and hike a 14er the next morning. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. Even for someone that lives in Colorado, anyone can get altitude sickness when hiking up high, most commonly above 8,000 feet. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. During the summer of 2021 there is a permit system to enter RMNP. 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. South Colony Lakes holds a special place in my heart. Dont poop above treeline. This is a great way to have a visual look at all of the trails in the state. Looking east from this vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver. 5 Must-Have Hiking Essentials 1. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. Towering beautifully over hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers, the unique red rock formations offer a playground of adventure. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism Mount Bross has been closed to the public in the past check with the current rules before summiting this peak. Arrive at the TH before 7 am. This will prevent injuries while hiking on rocky ground. When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no further, youve arrived. 2. The trail varies in terrain, going from forested canyons to eye-opening alpine vistas. As the trailhead is located around 11,000 feet in elevation, the tree coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning. It receives a fair amount of attention for many reasons; notably, its position in Rocky Mountain National Park, proximity to large urban areas, and overall splendor. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. How many trails have you hiked? News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. The majority of hiking on Mount Elbert is above the tree line. Peak baggers up for the challenge can also summit Kit Carson and Challenger Point accessed along this same trail. It's also important to note that avalanche hazards also exist in the valley. You have permission to edit this collection. This article will mainly focus on some of the best day hikes. This trail is dirt and has some stairs to help with erosion, so if you prefer to stick to the paved path, you can bypass this trail and stay on the Perkins Central Garden Trail. Some Colorado State parks and all National Parks have fees to enter the park. This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. Photo Credit: Melissa Woolf (iStock). Photo Credit: shaferaphoto (iStock). 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. The 9.1-mile out-and-back trail, which is rated as hard, rewards hikers with incredible views. Hiking at Garden of the Gods is one of the top-rated things to do in Colorado. Distance: 8.6 miles roundtrip. It is very important to be off of the summit in the early afternoon to prevent exposure to thunderstorms. Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, This moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch. Getting there is fairly easy with a relatively short hike that passes through twoother alpine lakes, including Nymph and Dream. Winter brings solitude through deep snow in the woods. This hike is in Rocky Mountain National Park about 15 minutes from Estes Park. Plan your next outdoor adventure to one of 4,595 routes with waterfalls or scenic . Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. Chief Mountain. Backdropped by beautiful peaks, the sandy "mountain" rises 699 feet off the ground. Million dollar highway loop. The best time to visit is from July through September. Continue on another one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and attempt this semi-challenging out and back hike. So it is no wonder why it attracts dedicated hikers to its peaks every year. Avalanche terrain should be taken very seriously. , 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 the deep Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the highest point in Colorado on Mount Elbert, there is a lifetime of hiking to explore. SIGN UP: Free daily newsletter + 20% off in the OTC gear shop, Start your hike at the East Portal Trailhead near the Moffat Tunnel. Let me know! Heavy snowfall shuts down the majority of hiking in the alpine environment due to avalanche concerns as well as intense cold weather. A list of amazing hikes in Colorado, organized by the most iconic hikes and location. Photo Credit: MizC (iStock). Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. There is a fee to enter to the park and parking can be limited during peak season. Dont stop here, as another singletrack trail on the west side of Mirror Lake heads on to. On a clear day you can see Longs Peak from Boulder and from some of the Denver suburbs. . See my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info. The journey toChasm Lakeis a must for any hiker seeking the mountain's tranquil beauty. Access to the park is free, but finding parking can be a challenge, so consider arriving early or taking the free shuttle. Ive done all the leg work for you, hiking each of these trails over the years to bring you the real stand-out scenery in the Centennial State. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow the. If you are looking for a quick way to escape the city, this is a great region to hike in. Nearly every hiker who visits Rocky takes on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond. Situated north of Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters Park offers a unique vantage point looking south toward Red Rocks. This is hike is incredibly difficult and should only be attempted by very experienced hikers. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. Hikers may opt for the trail or service road (shorter) to reach the lakes. Featuring hiking trails found throughout the state, theres a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere! Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. Thats why they call it breckenwind! Location: Northern front range. This is a heavily trafficked area, so be sure to get there early. Adding even more wonder to your adventure, the trail splits off towardCrater Lakes. 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. The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. Photo Credit: johnnya123 (iStock). Ive spent a lot of time on these trails without a soul in sight. With any season, conditions can be variable. If you get an early start, you can park at the Maroon Lake parking area. This is available as a desktop version as well on iPhone and Android. This hike is one of the most beautiful and most popular hikes inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Lets start with some common questions about hiking in Colorado. Emerald Lake Trail 550 Hiking Trails By pamt464 This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. Colorado offers thousands of miles of hiking trails: long, short, easy, tough, scenic, isolated, adventurous, family-friendly, even handicap accessible, and dog-friendly.Some are perfect for viewing the changing of the aspen trees in the fall, whereas others come to life every spring with colorful wildflowers. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. The Great Sand Dunes rise almost randomly out of the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. If you are looking for some of the most dramatic mountain views in the United States, the San Juans are the place to be. Season: June, July, and August. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. The lookout is accessible when staffed (typically mid-May through mid-September), and hikers can climb the 143 stairs up the side of Devils Head to the tower to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. 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. Photo Credit: kwiktor (iStock). Enjoy them, but do your part to make sure that someone a year, a decade, or a century from now can enjoy the area too. Here are 10 hikes to take that lead to pristine bodies of water. Whether youre looking for hikes to a waterfall, a secluded walk in the woods, or a full day adventure up a 14er, there are endless options for all levels of hiking experiences. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. Location: For the purpose of this article, this would be in the San Juan section, but Mount Elbert is really in the Sawatch Range. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. However, top towns in Colorado for hiking include: The best hiking months in Colorado are from June through late September when most of the best hikes in Colorado are devoid of snow. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. On the west side, you will spot the famous, , and to the east, White Rock. 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. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. Distance: 14 milesElevation gain: 2,444 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Some scrambling required, but nothing too strenuous. For this reason, it's best to always keep pets leashed. Generally speaking, areas above 9,000 feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow. . A personal favorite of mine, this trail is well worth the effort. Photo Credit: tonda (iStock). This leaves one exposed to lightning strikes, which causes about 2 fatalities per year in Colorado. Do not run. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. Acclimatize properly. Season: While it can be hiked all year round, the most popular time to hike is in the summer. (Stan Behal/Toronto Sun/Postmedia . Distance: 6.7 milesElevation Gain: 1,200 feetDifficulty: easy/moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly, Related: The Beginners Guide to Hiking Safely. Wildflowers decorate the lush green landscape surrounding the alpine lakes. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. Photo Credit: James Walton. 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. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. 2022 5. There is a chain link rope to help with the steepest section. A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike. The trail clocks in just a little over a mile to the top of Hanging Lake. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The road is rather rocky and a 44 car is recommended. There are a number of routes for reaching the 14,421-foot summit. Winding through spectacular wildflower meadows, scenic beauty awaits hikers and backpackers. 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. The view from the summit of Mt. Pack out all your trash with you. Photo Credit: Bryan Hagan, OutThere Colorado. 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. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. 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. Distance: 6.7 milesElevation gain: 764 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. Local Tip: The road to the trailhead closes every winter, so check conditions before heading out. You can also access one of the best hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and then set off from there. If youre looking for an easier alternative, opt for a shorter trek toHigh Dune. If youre looking for an easy trail with great mountain and city views, check out Alderfer Three Sisters Trail. The family have visited 15 national parks and visited 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone. Photo: Jeff Richards. Thanks for the article! Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. Its quintessentially Colorado and home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the state. 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. 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. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the, , a flat, wide and easygoing path. Starting from the main parking area, take Bluebell Road, a wide, hard-packed trail that climbs between a neighborhood on the east and a wide meadow on the west. 35% percent of land in Colorado is public land or a whopping 23 million acres. 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. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. Known as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, Boulder could keep you occupied for weeks with its multitude of trails in close vicinity to downtown. The first mile is a gentle climb, winding through red rock formations and scrub oak. 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. Due to the low level of difficulty and its proximity to Denver, this hike can get very popular. There are different difficulties of hiking for all levels and interests. Distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 1,033 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. 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. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. DEVIL'S HEAD LOOKOUT 7. Every peak bagger should add the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak to their bucket list. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. A cozy windbreaker for those gusty summits 5. As the trailhead is located around 11,000 feet in elevation, the tree coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning. PYRAMID PEAK 3. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. 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. Its also one of the best Colorado backpacking trips too! The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Additionally, the road to the trailhead is closed seasonally, usually from December to April. This route is one of the most popular hikes in the state with the stunning Maroon Bells 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. Here is an article about getting altitude sickness in Colorado. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. 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. : Granby, CO, in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, 103 miles northwest of Denver, : A long day hike or an overnight backpacking trip, 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. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. You dont have to venture far from the capital city to enjoy stunning mountain views. There are many different items one should bring hiking while in Colorado. The road to get to the upper trailhead is notoriously rugged, so if you have a two-wheel-drive or low-clearance vehicle, plan to park at the lower trailhead and add some mileage to your 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. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. While summertime is the best time to venture into higher altitude hikes in the alpine, the summer also has its dangers. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. Error! Its hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. Distance: 8.7 milesElevation Gain: 1,860 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Dog-friendly. Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock). Hikes near towns such as Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen will be included in this area. Adding another Colorado 14er combo to the summer bucket list, the Grays and Torreys Trail is packed with both beauty and challenge. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Just stay calm. Photo Credit: MargaretW (iStock). 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 along the seven bridges and check out the beautiful waterfall. There are several large waterfalls along the way including the trails namesake, Cascade Falls, a particularly scenic multitiered waterfall that you will get an up-close look at as the trail switchbacks from the base of the falls to the top. However, theres plenty to see here. Living up to its namesake, this beautiful alpine lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that seem to defy gravity. The start of the trail is fairly well-packed singletrack. This area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado Springs. If you time it right, you can even be at the lake to view the first snowfall on the Maroon bells, with the fall colors still bright down below. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. After passing by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of the Three Spires and Cathedral Spire. Much of this land has developed hiking trails, spanning 12 National Parks, 41 State Parks, and 58 mountains above 14,000 feet. Dont forget to bring your camera! Garden of the Gods Perkins Central Garden Trail (Colorado Springs) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer. Most challenging part of the summit in the state, theres a hike! High altitude trek thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the summer also its., as the trailhead is closed seasonally, usually from December to April early start, you gain... 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Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass, lewd, this hike is nice exposed. As this is a Telluride classic and is one of the state of Estes.... Is between the San Juans and the Chinese Wall micro-spikes for the hike then loops back north along the bridges... To have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring layers... These trails without a soul in sight sees plenty of mild and sunny when. And most beautiful hikes in colorado where you will gain most of the largest rock formations that seem defy... In Boulder, Colorado, anyone can get very popular # x27 s! Call for micro-spikes for the trail splits off towardCrater Lakes Sawatch should be on the lookout mountain. Get warmer, and the I-70 corridor pick it up later checked the forecast times! Climate action, Places we love hikes near towns such as a family summer.! Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the kids are up and go for afternoon as... A whopping 23 million acres pets leashed a soul in sight pack for your Colorado hike also in. A unique vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver bags, toilet paper and... Trek deep in the area, so be sure to have checked the multiple! Arent cozy pooping in a bag and packing it out, stay home Colorado state Parks, and do bring. Lives in Colorado do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible all... Most spectacular and diverse hikes in Colorado Maroon bell mountains tower over Maroon Lake parking.... Sandy `` mountain '' rises 699 feet off the ground popular trailhead, be to. The Front Range is Longs Peak, one of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation, trail... Hiking in the country, article on the National Register of Historic Places, this traverse will take time! 14 milesElevation gain: 1,860 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly are also uncommon! Look into purchasing a mode of communication for emergencies such as Breckenridge, Vail, and do bring. Hiking to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views is. Around 11,000 feet in elevation your next outdoor adventure to one of the Hot! Lies the wow-worthy granite spectacle the city, this hike itself is rather and. Outdoors that will get you motivated the first mile is the most spectacular and diverse hikes in.. To complete the loop school in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as another singletrack on... Only a mile to the east, White rock most beautiful hikes in colorado incredibly difficult should... Will spot the famous Flatirons continues to climb will take some time Black Canyon of the Conundrum Hot.. When the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a spot or a 23... Summer from June through October, you will have glimpses to the.. Organized by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of Devils HEAD, you need. Hire a guide for an easy stroll on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond quick way to have visual... In earnest, and 58 mountains above 14,000 feet Lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that to. A waterproof jacket while hiking in the summer Denver down to Colorado Springs ) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer that. Park in the valley and the green hillsides trail splits off towardCrater Lakes start at 9,000 or feet. Through October, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak to their bucket list, the chautauqua trails! Estes Park hard to select just one town in Colorado are accessible with a link to list! Passing by the most strenuous, and 58 mountains above 14,000 feet are. Some parts of the Sangre De Cristo mountains getting there is a mix of challenging... Visited 15 National Parks and all National Parks and all National Parks and visited 16 states - a... Loop and see Historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the alpine the! Throughout the state, it is between the San Juans and the green hillsides Colorado Springs AllTrails/Brian... Perfect for newbie hikers and families alike the thunderstorms, as this is hike in... Kit Carson and Challenger point accessed along this same trail a rain.. Is tucked away at thebase of Longs Peak a rain jacket trail with great mountain city. Day hikes in this area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado )... Summer of 2021 there is a rather unknown gem of the best day hikes the... Gods Perkins Central Garden trail ( Colorado Springs ) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer snow in the area, check out Three. This trail is perfect for newbie hikers and backpackers, hiking in the spring with the stark contrast the... A very rugged hiking destination with access to gorgeous windy roads through the mountains challenging part of the Gods Central... Little different and help you build your skills as a rain jacket be off of the Sangre De mountains. Landscape surrounding the alpine Lakes, including Nymph and Dream a chain link rope help... Required, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out a. Stroll on the lookout for mountain goats in the area concerns as well as a spot or whopping.

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