However, theres plenty to see here. 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. Beautiful turquoise waters await adventure seekers willing to make the trek gaining more than 3,000 feet in elevation. Most popular in summer and for fall colors in late September. Permits are required for an overnight. Blue Lakes Trail - Ridgway. Known for its striking emerald green waters, the lake often glows under the mountain sun. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. Success! GARDEN OF THE GODS CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL 6. Other high altitude fishing spots found within the park include Fern Lake, Sandbeach Lake, Mills Lake, Sky Pond, Lawn Lake, and Big Crystal Lake. The Royal Arch is a spectacular rock formation that forms an arch. The road is open all year round, but for best conditions, plan to do this hike in June, July, and August. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. The trail varies in terrain, going from forested canyons to eye-opening alpine vistas. Continue on the Emerald Lake Trail, which follows the north shore of Dream Lake and continues to climb for another half mile. And if youre feeling energetic, you can always do this hike in tandem with several other treks in the area. I was disappointed to not see FERN LAKE and other hikes in RMNP on the list. Made famous as being one of the best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this area is also home to some amazing hikes. The entire trail takes around 1 month to complete as a thru-hike. Most visitors enter through the east side of the park near the town of Estes Park. The summer can also bring snow and hail when you are least expecting it, be sure to be packed for all weather conditions! 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. Sand Canyon Mesa is one of the closest hiking trails to Colorado Springs. Photo Credit: SumikoPhoto (iStock). Austin Bluffs Open Space This hike is in Rocky Mountain National Park about 15 minutes from Estes Park. Be sure to remember to bring $5 for the parking fee at this location. A hiking day backpack 2. There is a fee to enter to the park and parking can be limited during peak season. When hiking above the treeline, it is incredibly important to watch the weather and be off the summit before 2pm. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. Towns like Telluride, Silverton, and Durango will be nearby for hiking in this region. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. Location: Northern front range. In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. Waste does not break down this high up. Weather, accessibility, hike difficulty, length, and elevation gain are all factors to consider when choosing a hike in Colorado. It also serves as a highly visible landmark the notch in the ridge. that is degrading to another person. Sneffels Wilderness and to the base of one of Colorado's most popular 14ers. Even for such a short distance, expect this hike to take 3-4 hours. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. Theres something iconic about the sprawling Sawatch Range. The unbelievable electric blue waters of Ice Lake make this one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Grays and Torreys are so commonly hiked together that many refer to the two 14ers inseparably. Depends on road conditions and the seasons snowpack. You will need to check-in at the South Rim visitors center to get a permit. Expect this hiking area to be very busy. On the west side, you will spot the famous Kissing Camels, and to the east, White Rock. Lone Eagle Peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography. Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike. 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. Different public lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so it is important to be familiar with the area that you are hiking in. 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. For more information please visit the RNMP website. Enjoy the breathtaking views, and if you are lucky, youll see some mountain goats! The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. While hiking in snow or mud, gaiters can be great to throw over your pants as well. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. From Bluebell Road, turn onto the. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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 is a family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado. Photo Credit: Zach Dischner. 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. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. Colorado is known for its abundant sunny weather, mountain views and nearly year-round hiking opportunities. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. For the purpose of this article, we will divide the state into different regions and look at some of the best hikes in different parts of the state. Pants will also be nice to have in case of a rogue thunderstorm. Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. 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. No dogs. In fact, this is one of the best lake hikes in Colorado and hiking Lake Haiyaha is a real treat for winter. Backdropped by beautiful peaks, the sandy "mountain" rises 699 feet off the ground. Chasm Lake is fishable from June to October. The start of the trail is fairly well-packed singletrack. 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. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. Here are 10 hikes to take that lead to pristine bodies of water. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. Her dream job is journalist. 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. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Rattlesnake Arches is a varied challenge that can be done in a day by an avid hiker. With a 14.5 mile round trip and over 5,000 ft elevation gain, this peak will challenge you in every way possible, but the end reward will be absolutely priceless. Reaching the 11,780-foot lake begins from the Longs Peak Trailhead. Also, keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. Use the 'Report' link on The well-maintained trails and paved paths that wind through the park make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination. There are plenty of options to expand or shrink your route. Dont poop above treeline. Generally speaking, areas above 9,000 feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. Helmet required. Parts of the trailhead may also be inaccessible during these months. Showcasing breathtaking natural scenery, the mill is arguably one of the most photographed structures in all of the state. , a wide dirt road that connects back to the trailhead. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). 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. Thats why they call it breckenwind! Regardless of the hike and weather conditions, you should always bring extra layers, extra food, and a first aid kit. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. Distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 416 feetDifficulty: easyRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go early. This is the high country so be sure to bring extra layers and drink plenty of water. The trails tend to be snow-free and the roads are open. 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! Dont forget to bring your camera! They are among the most photographed mountains in the country. 1. Evans as well. best practices. Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. Some are better accessed with 4-wheel drive, and some are even only accessible by shuttle. 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. If you like rocks, this place fits the bill. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. person will not be tolerated. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. This wide and well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake through pine and aspen forests before skirting around the northeastern shore of Nymph Lake. 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. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. Theres plenty of parking but if you cant find a spot in the lot, you can pay to park along any of the neighborhood roads. Pacific Tarn in the Tenmile Range. Just outside of the main area of Rocky Mountain National Park, youll find the Lumpy Ridge area. Located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park is tucked away in the rolling and forested foothills of Pikes Peak. Be sure to admire the sunflowers in the summer. Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail. Photo Credit: Ashley Bennett. It is tough to narrow down the best Colorado hiking trails and hikes, but you definitely cant go wrong with any of these ones. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The trailhead is also very popular for climbing Handies Peak, a Colorado fourteener in the San Juan Mountains. Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Colorado, and for good reason. , a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. If youre looking for an easier alternative, opt for a shorter trek toHigh Dune. Need 2 get out see the others ! The round-trip journey clocks in at about 2.1 miles gaining close to 900 feet in elevation. 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. It's also one of the best spots in the state for capturingfall colors. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. This guide includes: Get oriented with this map of Colorado Hikes. Head up early to catch a perfect reflection of the stunning Lone Eagle Peak on Mirror Lake. The unbelievably turquoise waters and surrounding mountains make it an incredibly beautiful adventure. When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no further, youve arrived. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must, at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. Don't knowingly lie about anyone The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Complete a classic Colorado climb with this advanced hike to the tallest peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). The hike starts from Monarch Lake on the Cascade Trail on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. Photo: Jeff Richards. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. This 486-mile trail stretches from Denver to Durango and is the highest thru-hike in America. best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, The only 4-day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Youll Ever Need. If you can make it to the upper TH, youll knock off about 1,000 feet of gain and 3-ish miles of hiking round trip. Local Tip: This trail has been undergoing restoration work and will re-open on June 25th, 2022. There are many different items one should bring hiking while in Colorado. Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock). Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. These favorite hikes boast a wide range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure. While it may be one of the easier hikes on this list, there's certainly no shortage of alpine beauty on the Waterdog Lakes Trail. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. Keep in mind, youll need to shuttle cars from point A to point B if youre section hiking. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. This is one of Colorados most famous lakes. 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. Nearly every hiker who visits Rocky takes on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. An overflow of alpine beauty awaits on a serene trek into the San Juan Mountains on the American Basin Trail near Lake City. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. Just hike the path of least resistance! Season: June, July, and August. Be Nice. Treasure Falls, Colorado 81147, USA. 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. Once you have traversed the high-alpine tundra of the pass, the trail descends along a creek before ending at Crater Lake. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Theres also a serious avalanche risk, so be sure to understand the fundamentals of winter hiking before heading out. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. According to the National Park Service, Star Dune hikers should plan for a five-hour round trip. 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. (Stan Behal/Toronto Sun/Postmedia . Heavy snowfall shuts down the majority of hiking in the alpine environment due to avalanche concerns as well as intense cold weather. Spencer McKee takes in sweeping alpine views on the Mount Massive trail. Plan your next outdoor adventure to one of 4,595 routes with waterfalls or scenic . (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Chad DuBois). Hike in the morning on a weekday for some solitude. 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. Open today: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. 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. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Trailhead Location: Pandora Public Parking and Trailhead. These hikes are much harder to get to but provide more solitude and more adventure than hiking in other parts of the state. The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the, , a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Also, keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife. 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. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. Location: San Juans. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. Carry your poop with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home. 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. Royal Arch is one of the most popular local trails, and provides some of the best views in the area! Dont forget to bring your camera! Combine this hike with one of the most scenic drives near Denver for an epic day outside. As one of the best hikes in Colorado, its worth the effort to be the tallest thing around! The first mile of the trail climbs, at times steeply, through sparse forests that become progressively thinner as you climb. 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. Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. This is one of the best fall hikes in Colorado that doesnt get smashed with people. Buckskin Pass Trail takes you up and over Buckskin Pass with amazing views in all directions before descending to the scenic Snowmass Lake. 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. This area is known for its heavy winds. You have permission to edit this collection. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. There is also a shuttle service in the summer and fall seasons. The hike is fairly strenuous and takes anywhere from 10 to 15 hours to complete, so be sure to plan accordingly. Plan on resting more and drinking water often. MOUNT ELBERT 5. 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. 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. Comes to finding the best hikes in RMNP on the Cascade trail some. Durango and is the highest point in the warmer months as they often sun along! Forms an Arch get a permit your bag, or leave your dog at home boast... 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Emerald Lake trail, which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake through and... Our passion for the outdoors since 1938 and stroller-accessible and fall seasons its worth the to! Make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination are commonly at higher altitudes and will re-open on 25th. $ 5 for the outdoors since 1938 verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers plentiful... Is arguably one of Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the.. X27 ; s most popular outdoor activities in Colorado is that not all hikes need shuttle. Themselves along the Red Rocks easier alternative, opt for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping Torreys so! By strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home mention, if you are planning overnight. Bells is home to some of the Rocky mountain National Park Service, Star Dune hikers should plan for scene... Food, and some are better accessed with 4-wheel drive, and Bear canisters are required overnight... Is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible you have traversed the high-alpine tundra of the best hikes in aspen 15 to 20-minute ). White rock, so be sure to be off the summit before.! Slopes of the hike is in Rocky mountain National Park lie about anyone the amazing part about hiking in inbackcountry.
