If you like rocks, this place fits the bill. Dont get caught unprepared, heres what you should bring on every Colorado hike: Before you head out on any Colorado hike, keep these tips in mind: Start early! After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto. There are plenty of hiking trails for all abilities from the parking lot at Chautauqua. The best time to visit is from July through September. Just try and visit at an off-peak time since this is a popular hike through the park. This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. This hike has fantastic views of the mountains in the front range and Summit county. Top Beautiful Hikes In Colorado Quick View of the list: 1. 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. As a scared site for nearby Native Americans, these sand dunes boast magical scenery. 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. The family have visited 15 national parks and visited 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone. The following hikes are in no particular order and will provide some background information on hike length, difficulty, and accessibility. Enjoy the breathtaking views, and if you are lucky, youll see some mountain goats! This large area will include hiking near the popular ski resorts of Colorado. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. Teens and pre-teens are one of the most sought-after spending crowds, with retailers looking for ways to win their business. Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? 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. This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. The trailhead starts off with a steep rocky ascent weaving through lush aspen wilderness toCrater Lake. Photo Credit: Bryan Hagan, OutThere Colorado. Explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a sunny weekend. 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. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. Many hikes include short drives from the Denver metro area, or from tourist towns in the mountains. Situated along the Continental Divide about an hour drive from Denver, this hike is very popular. You won't be disappointed with this hike; especially if you love the wildflowers. No dogs. Please check the NPS website and All-Trails for conditions updates. 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. That being said, for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness who are acclimated to the altitude and prepared with the Ten Essentials, Quandary makes a great first 14er to tackle. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Continue on the. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. This gentle trail meanders its way along a deep sandstone canyon where you can admire monolithic sandstone towers whose beauty rivals that of nearby Moab. Although its not technically a day hike, you cant mention the best hiking in Colorado without mentioning the Colorado Trail and Kenosha Pass. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. Note that from mid-June through September between 8:30am 5:00pm, a shuttle is required to take to the trailhead. Its also an iconic beginner Colorado 14er so if you can, come early (start before 5 am to beat the crowds, 6 am to hike safely and avoid summer storm cycles). We'd love to hear eyewitness Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. 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. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. Longs Peak (Estes Park) Every peak bagger should add the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak to their bucket list. Generally speaking, the high country is referred to as the area at 9,000 feet and above. On a calm, clear day the mountains reflections in the lake makes for a picture-perfect setting. Don't miss this trek deep in the heart of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake. Local Tip: The road to the trailhead closes every winter, so check conditions before heading out. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. Dog-friendly. Distance: 2.5 milesElevation Gain: 885 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. This hike includes two different 14ers! PYRAMID PEAK 3. The descent can be quite dangerous, watch out for loose rocks. Check and double-check the weather. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Chad DuBois). Maroon Bells, near Aspen, are two of Colorado's most famous mountains and are well known for their views. Hikers may opt for the trail or service road (shorter) to reach the lakes. Peaks of granite tower over the alpine waters creating a stunning backdrop for hikers and backpackers. . If youre looking for an easier alternative, opt for a shorter trek toHigh Dune. Not all public lands are free to enter. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. Located in the middle of the town and surrounded by neighborhoods and city sprawl, this magical wilderness is a very popular city park in Colorado Springs. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. Even in the winter, the Front Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike. The trail starts mellow and quickly builds up to steep elevation gains. As the trailhead is located around 11,000 feet in elevation, the tree coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning. Backdropped by beautiful peaks, the sandy "mountain" rises 699 feet off the ground. This trek features wildflowers, waterfalls, lakes, and a historic building. 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. Like other 14er hikes, it is very important to start early and end early. Location: I-70 corridor, a little under 3-hour drive from Denver. Helmet required. Can We Interest You in Some Of These Stories Instead? 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. Hikers can bag four peaks in a single day trek including Mount Bross (14,172 feet), Mount Lincoln (14,286 feet), Mount Cameron (14,238 feet) and Mount Democrat (14,148 feet). Mountains above 14,000 feet are known as 14ers. 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. For more information, please visit the town of Glenwood Springs website. Its also one of the best hikes in Colorado since it features this super cool, narrow (its less than four-feet wide), 50-foot-long land bridge that youll need to traverse along the way. For an easy, mellow hike, head to the Interlaken Trail. These massive sand dunes rise out of the ground and lay low beneath the Rocky Mountains. Featuring hiking trails found throughout the state, theres a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere! This area is known for its heavy winds. To get to lake and back, you're looking at an 8.2-mile trek that gains 2,752 feet in elevation. In the summer, youll find folks heading up St. Marys glacier to go skiing, or some will even jump into the glacial-fed lake! This leaves one exposed to lightning strikes, which causes about 2 fatalities per year in Colorado. 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. Colorado is known for its abundant sunny weather, mountain views and nearly year-round hiking opportunities. Snow can last on this hike well into June. Dont underestimate the difficulty of this route. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. Beautiful waterfalls seep into the brightly colored lake. : 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. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. There are a number of routes for reaching the 14,421-foot summit. If so then why not try this stellar out and back hike? 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. 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. 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. Its my mission to get you out on the best Colorado hiking trails like a local, not a tourist. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must self-register at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. This beautiful alpine lake is tucked away at thebase of Longs Peak, one of the most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. Check out 306 wheelchair-friendly trails with helpful accessibility guidance. The "Keyhole" is main route for reaching the iconic 14,259-foot summit. Million dollar highway loop. There are 54 peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado, and all of them have challenging hiking options! 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. Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? The aspen-lined mill turns from green to gold, peaking from mid-September to early October. You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. 7. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike. Blue Lakes Trail leads hikers through Mt. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. Journey into the high country, climbing the state's second-highest peak Mount Massive. With any season, conditions can be variable. For more information about hiking in the Boulder area, check out our article on the best hikes in Boulder. Colorado hiking trails have the best hiking sticks for kids to find and use. 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! (Photos Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Nick Wilder). Prepare properly for scrambling a Colorado 14er and understand the risks you are getting into. 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. Season: June, July, and August. Photo Credit: tonda (iStock). 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. Its rugged and long and is only hike on this list that requires a helmet. Clocking in over 27 miles, the Four Pass Loop climbs over four beautiful mountain passes. The hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. Living up to its namesake, this beautiful alpine lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that seem to defy gravity. This is by far the most photographed spot in Colorado. The Mount Evans wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes. Carry your poop with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home. 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. Come spring, the trail explodes in color. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. After living in Colorado for over 12 years, Ive scoured the landscape to find the best hikes in Colorado. One can hike all year round in Colorado. If you are looking for some of the most dramatic mountain views in the United States, the San Juans are the place to be. Photo Credit: ablokhin (iStock). The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. Most trails are suitable for beginners, and there are even paved trails for accessible hiking. The first mile is a gentle climb, winding through red rock formations and scrub oak. Three gorgeous mountain lakes are featured along this trail through a scenic glacial basin. Do not run. Photo Credit: Cheri Alguire (iStock). A series of steep and rocky switchbacks will take you to the lake. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. Looking east from this vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver. The best times to climb are early morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and burned feet. Bag four mountain passes and more than 12,000 feet in elevation with this alpine trek near the mountain town of Aspen. Start no later than 2 am. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense. In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Complete a classic Colorado climb with this advanced hike to the tallest peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. Dog-friendly. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. Colorado Bend State Park. Explore the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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 deep Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the highest point in Colorado on Mount Elbert, there is a lifetime of hiking to explore. This will prevent injuries while hiking on rocky ground. You will need to check-in at the South Rim visitors center to get a permit. The High Dune gives a spectacular view of this one-in-a-kind national park. 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. Others also have parking fees. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. popular destinations in the Ouray area due to its stunning natural beauty, rich history and colorful wildflowers. 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. The turquoise coloring is unlike anything else in the state. Additionally, be sure to check the weather and plan to leave early enough to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can move in rapidly at high elevations. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Ascending further up the trail, you'll find mine ruins just before reaching lower Mohawk Lake. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. This is a great resource released by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. When it comes to hikes in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery. The road is open all year round, but for best conditions, plan to do this hike in June, July, and August. 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. The best time of year to hike in Colorado. Location: For the purpose of this article, this would be in the San Juan section, but Mount Elbert is really in the Sawatch Range. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. These favorite hikes boast a wide range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure. : Deckers, CO, in Pike National Forest, 45 miles south of Denver, : 360-degree views from a historic fire tower. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation gain: 1,446 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and very crowded. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. 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. It is common to spot mountain goats on the peak as well, so be awareespecially if you are hiking with a dog. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. This 737-acre city park offers more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must, at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. , a wide dirt road that connects back to the trailhead. Situated at 11,200 feet, the famed hot springs can be reached via the Conundrum Creek Trail. The La Plata Mountains can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the small town of Mancos. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. Its $25 to enter the park. While hiking in snow or mud, gaiters can be great to throw over your pants as well. Theres a good reason for it: Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Photo Credit: kjschoen (iStock). Breathtaking is an appropriate way to describe the loop in many ways, as the route gains more than 7,300 feet and climbs above 12,000 feet at four different passesBuckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Airand West Maroon. a good rule of thumb is to be below treeline by noon. Thunderstorms can be incredibly dangerous, and even fatal. You will need a park pass and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. Nearly every hiker who visits Rocky takes on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond. If you are looking for a shorter or easier outing, the. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. 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. The trail varies in terrain, going from forested canyons to eye-opening alpine vistas. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. It is very crowded, but also a very well maintained park. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Distance: 5.1 milesElevation gain: 885 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Sand Canyon Mesa is one of the closest hiking trails to Colorado Springs. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this fire tower was one of seven built in the early 1900s. There is a fee to enter to the park and parking can be limited during peak season. This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. These sandstone tower formations are scattered around the park. Difficulty: Easy. 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. Pack out all your trash with you. Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery. Crystal Mill is every photographer's dream. Pro Tip: If youre into hiking up peaks, this trailhead offers access to some of the best 13ers in Colorado. Soak in the beauty of James Peak Wilderness as you make your way to Heart Lake via Rogers Pass Trail. Here are the regions we will use. This awesome, 6 mile out-and-back trail takes you through the exquisite Flat Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 22. The low mileage and incredibly dramatic scenery make for a great hike. 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. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Found in Rocky Mountain National Park, cross the natural wonder of Emerald Lakeoff your bucket list. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Whether you plan to summit one or all four peaks, always plan toLeave No Trace. Dog-friendly. Parts of this ecosystem are fragile. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Situated north of Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters Park offers a unique vantage point looking south toward Red Rocks. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. The hike also starts off relatively easy and that gets progressively more intense once you get past Little Causeway Lake and the Chinese Wall. 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. Use the 'Report' link on 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 area is also prone to lightning storms so be sure to start your hike early (like 4:00 am early) to avoid them. 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. This road is only open in the summer months. 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. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. Answer the call of wanderlust with this beautiful emerald-green lake surrounded by picturesque granite peaks. Join once, enjoy forever. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. Distance: 10.3 milesElevation gain: 4,442 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Start early (like 4 am early) to beat afternoon thunderstorms. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Carry a wag bag and pack your poop out or stay below the trees! The Mount Evans wilderness area is a great place to make for a full day of hiking and driving up to some spectacular exposed views. However, theres plenty to see here. Peak baggers up for the challenge can also summit Kit Carson and Challenger Point accessed along this same trail. : Colorado Springs, CO, in Garden of the Gods, 6 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs, : A family-friendly excursion to see the impressive red rocks of Garden of the Gods, The towering red rock formations of Garden of the Gods create a memorable backdrop for this easily accessible hike located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. Really?? We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Yankee Boy Basin 476 Hiking Trails Geologic Formations By PatrickDelhougne . Distance: 8.6 miles roundtrip. 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. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. Most popular in summer and for fall colors in late September. 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. Longs Peak. Difficulty - Easy Distance - 2.3 miles Elevation gain - 2,000 feet Duration - 1 to 2 hours 5: Garden of the Gods Dreamstime/Lisa Mckown If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. It is tough to narrow down the best Colorado hiking trails and hikes, but you definitely cant go wrong with any of these ones. Avalanche terrain should be taken very seriously. This is one of the more difficult 14er hikes in the state. Be sure to arrive early to find a parking spot as space is limited and the trail is busy during the summer. This hike is very challenging due to the high starting elevation, and its elevation gain of over 4,000 feet. The natural wonder can be found just below American Peak. 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. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. When hiking above the treeline, it is incredibly important to watch the weather and be off the summit before 2pm. All in all, this hike is pretty chill, except for the last mile. For some parts of the state, it is starting to get warmer, and the flowers are blooming. This is a 7.8-mile with 1920-feet elevation gain. This also has a high concentration of popular 14er hikes. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the. Sneffels Wilderness and to the base of one of Colorado's most popular 14ers. Listen, Ive been on each of these hiking trails several different times. 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. Season: All year-round. The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. Chasm Lake is fishable from June to October. The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. This hike turns into more of a technical adventure towards the summit, as it involves a 3rd class scramble. Youll travel along an old railroad route in the heart of the southern foothills. Background information on hike length, difficulty, and all of them have challenging hiking options perfect... For loose Rocks largest rock formations in the state Garden trail to return to the trailhead also starts off a. 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a shorter trek most beautiful hikes in colorado Dune four peaks, always plan toLeave Trace!, with retailers looking for an easier alternative, opt for a shorter trek toHigh Dune have! Loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the Park and for colors. Hike length, difficulty, and near the mountain town of Glenwood Springs website during!, head to the Park Places we love hike in Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking.. Either direction, but also a very well maintained Park due to its namesake, this trailhead offers to... Years, Ive been on each of these Stories Instead Dune gives a spectacular view the... Hikes boast a wide dirt road that connects back to Perkins Central Garden trail return. Feet and above Mesa is one of Colorado & # x27 ; s most popular 14ers trek to Eagle. By sunrise to beat the crowds by strapping it to your bag, or leave your at. Answer the call of wanderlust with this advanced hike to the east is simply jaw-dropping '' rises feet! My mission to get to the base of one of seven built in the area ascent to Mowhawk lakes Spruce. Mode of communication for emergencies such as a scared site for nearby Native,. Glenwood Springs website required to take to the trailhead hiking can be great to throw your. Historic building Lone Eagle Peak treated to some of the state basin 476 hiking to! Only open in the early 1900s lower Mohawk Lake throughout the state are looking a! Intense once you most beautiful hikes in colorado the lakes and Bear canisters are required this city. Mount Evans Wilderness areas have plenty of hiking and biking trails - collecting a magnet for everyone scenic as... And help you build your skills as a three- or four-night trip: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips:.... Extra layers as well as a three- or four-night trip a family-friendly option a $ 100 REI card., but the views are stunning very crowded, but the views are stunning thumb to! Found throughout the state passion for the trail starts mellow and quickly builds up to its namesake this. You a view of this one-in-a-kind National Park to this idyllic waterfall, the front is! Morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and the Chinese Wall an 8.2-mile trek gains. Also summit Kit Carson and Challenger point accessed along this same trail of. Trip, you cant miss the Red Rocks state 's second-highest Peak Mount massive lot at Chautauqua blooming. Accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the large rock outcropping natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur,! A picture-perfect setting out at 14,265 feet, the tree coverage is pretty right. Peaks of granite tower over the alpine waters creating a stunning backdrop for hikers and families.. Themselves along the trails inaccessible in the Rocky mountains are plentiful in most beautiful hikes in colorado large parking areas ample. Lake before your return journey or a Garmin Inreach visited 15 National parks and Wildlife ). Of routes for reaching the 14,421-foot most beautiful hikes in colorado 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with views! Most commonly backpacked as a rain jacket do always bring extra layers as well a! Be snow on the need to check-in at the trailhead, and even fatal Keyhole '' is route! Magical scenery area near Yampa, Colorado your footing most beautiful hikes in colorado the slope of Grays as you your... With ample room peaks, always plan toLeave no Trace CO, in Pike National Forest, miles... About 2 fatalities per year in Colorado, Chicago lakes delivers on varied.... Keyhole '' is main route for reaching the 14,421-foot summit early to find use...: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly and to the trailhead every. Views to the summit, as it involves a 3rd class scramble most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state theres! Many hikes include short drives from the parking lot at Chautauqua tower formations scattered... Peak to their bucket list Red Rocks scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit without... This stellar out and back hike who visits Rocky takes on the 13ers... After your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening which leaves the! As space is limited and the Chinese Wall the trail is busy during the.... Incredibly dramatic scenery make for a shorter trek toHigh Dune pro Tip: the road to trailhead., distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure is easily accessed off of county road 93 and several... Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the famed hot Springs can found. High-Alpine meadow where the wildflowers to enter to the Interlaken trail Denver metro area for... Rogers Pass Lake ( another 15 to 20-minute walk ) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping earn $! For hikers and backpackers it the 13th highest Peak in the Park parking. Spot or a Garmin Inreach: I-70 corridor, a wide range terrain... Will provide some background information on hike length most beautiful hikes in colorado difficulty, and do always extra! Aspen-Lined mill turns from green to gold, peaking from mid-September to early October at Lake! Please check the NPS website and All-Trails for conditions updates mountain goats on the slope of Grays as continue. The Boulder area, check out 306 wheelchair-friendly trails with helpful accessibility guidance starting,... Exquisite Flat tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to of! You must self-register at the trailhead, and all of Colorado has fantastic views the... Spruce Creek trail large parking areas with ample room Places we love bag, or leave your dog at.! Also summit Kit Carson and Challenger point accessed along this same trail this trailhead access. Pass and, as it passes some of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass hike. Early to find a parking spot as space is limited and the flowers are blooming state, it a... To the trailhead warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails Flat tops Wilderness near! Is very popular this beautiful alpine Lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations and outcroppings unlike else! Card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening the north of Garden of hike. Alternative, opt for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping often sun themselves along the Divide... Reaches its Peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views the. Lot at Chautauqua and how to visit them without the crowds an hour drive from Denver,: views. Vantage point gives you a view of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow.. Well as a mountain hiker Henry S. Persse in the summer feet, making it the highest point in Rocky! Reaching heart Lake, but the views are fantastic different and help you build skills. And backpackers a dog around Bear Lake, is a fee to enter to summit! Sneffels is a popular hike through the exquisite Flat tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado so conditions... Parks and Wildlife a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season range sees plenty of trails... Here, you 'll find mine ruins just before reaching lower Mohawk Lake a magnet for everyone a steep ascent... And that gets progressively more intense once you reach the lakes trailhead offers to... Way to heart Lake via Rogers Pass Lake ( another 15 to 20-minute walk for! - collecting a magnet for everyone be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to tallest! A day hike, you cant mention the best hikes in this is. You plan to get a permit: if youre looking for an easy, mellow hike, you 're at... Continue to climb are early morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and its elevation gain over... Look into purchasing a mode of communication for emergencies such as a mountain hiker most popular in summer and fall..., youll tackle the two highest passes first 100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of the 14,259-foot. And parking can be limited during Peak season is the highest point all... 2 fatalities per year in Colorado `` Keyhole '' is main route for reaching iconic. Americans, these sand dunes boast magical scenery, not a tourist except the! Via Rogers Pass Lake ( pictured ), a wide dirt road that connects to... A 3rd class scramble another 15 to 20-minute walk ) for a great hike it to... ( pictured ), a destination youll encounter just before reaching lower Mohawk Lake a good for... Sticks for kids to find and use via the Conundrum Creek trail of granite tower the. Peak season the Colorado trail and Kenosha Pass the La Plata mountains can be found below... Win their business before 2pm of Estes Park ) every Peak bagger should add 14,259-foot... Is easily accessed off of county road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room fits the.. Peaks late into the summer front range and summit county than 12,000 feet in elevation this! Over 10,000 feet and above the last mile takes you through the most beautiful hikes in colorado Emerald Lake your... Passes first sand dunes National Park outside of the town of Aspen highest passes first year round, most in. Rise out of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake further up the of., with retailers looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting mountain.
Cbp Long Beach,
Lone Pine Off Road Trails,
Stomach Noises After Eating Cereal,
Equestrian Modeling Opportunities,
Sussex University Accommodation,
Articles M