After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto High Drive, a wide dirt road that connects back to the trailhead. The trick? The unbelievable electric blue waters of Ice Lake make this one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. One such hike is the Ice Lake Trail which takes hikers on a 3.7-mile journey through beautiful trees to the lake, which has a mesmerizing blue color. The La Plata Mountains can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the small town of Mancos. Your body needs to acclimate to a higher elevation. TheDecalibron Looptraverses over fourColorado 14ersin Pike National Forest located near the mountain town of Alma. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. No dogs. Photo Credit: klosfoto (iStock). Difficulty: Easy. 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. 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. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. The 14-mile route in Rocky Mountain National Park can be very dangerous, requiring class three climbing with the majority of the route exposed well above treeline. 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. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Towards the summit there may be a few rocky sections, be on the lookout for loose rocks. The weather is very unpredictable in Colorado. home by Destinee Scott ATTN: The 12 Best President's Day Mattress Sales Have Already Begun (with Savings of Up to $880) home by Brianna Lapolla 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. As you climb, keep your eyes open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas. ! However, if youve got a Colorado license plate from 2023 onwards and you opted into the Colorado State Parks Pass, your entry is free. Distance: 3 milesElevation gain: 1,135 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go for sunrise. Some hikes may recommend hiking poles, or even a helmet while scrambling on more technical hiking trails. To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. Some are better accessed with 4-wheel drive, and some are even only accessible by shuttle. This trail offers amazing hiking year-round (psst, its one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes). The High Dune gives a spectacular view of this one-in-a-kind national park. Theres a $12 per-person permit required to hike. 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. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow the. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. Helmet required. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. : 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. Most segments fall within the moderate to upper end of difficult. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation Gain: 344 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: It costs $4.00 per person to enter this park and dogs/bikes are not allowed. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. Note that from mid-June through September between 8:30am 5:00pm, a shuttle is required to take to the trailhead. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. The trail is broken into 28 segments, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. If you are looking for a quick way to escape the city, this is a great region to hike in. The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. You'll need reservations to explore the iconic alpine wonder. Lone Eagle Peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. If you are flying into Colorado, Denver International Airport is the best option. (Mercury must be in retrograde.) Free shipping for many products! Complete a classic Colorado climb with this advanced hike to the tallest peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park. From here, you briefly connect to the Red Rocks Trail before the serious climb starts on the Morrison Slide Trail. If you like rocks, this place fits the bill. Everybody knows about them, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. From here, you briefly connect to the. The hike to Loch Lake is quite stunning, and a must-visit for any moderate hiker. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. If you are traveling in or under avalanche terrain, be sure to be educated on avalanche safety. Can We Interest You in Some Of These Stories Instead? Photo Credit: Matt Vincent. Fall can quickly turn to winter in some areas of the state. The round-trip journey clocks in at about 2.1 miles gaining close to 900 feet in elevation. Carry a wag bag and pack your poop out or stay below the trees! Come spring, the trail explodes in color. Distance: 1.6 milesElevation Gain: 232 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. 2022 5. These sandstone tower formations are scattered around the park. Winding through spectacular wildflower meadows, scenic beauty awaits hikers and backpackers. Photo Credit: Bryan Hagan, OutThere Colorado. Keep it Clean. Expect this hiking area to be very busy. Nestled outside of the beautiful mountain town of Breckenridge, the sparkling alpine waters combined with granite views and colorful blooms offers up the perfect summer escape. Best enjoyed in the summer and fall, hiking in the Sawatch should be on everyones to-do list. Photo Credit: Savannah Hodge. 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. Pack out all your trash with you. There was an error processing your request. Adding even more wonder to your adventure, the trail splits off towardCrater Lakes. Starting at the Kite Lake Trailhead, the7.6-mile trailgains 3,359 feet of elevation. Elevation: 246 feet. 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. The entire trail takes around 1 month to complete as a thru-hike. Hiking water bottle for hydration 4. This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Most trails are suitable for beginners, and there are even paved trails for accessible hiking. Photo Credit: Steven Bratman. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the Dream Lake Trail. As with any hiking day, it is especially important to drink lots of water and make sure you are eating enough. The road is rather rocky and a 44 car is recommended. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. 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. There are 54 peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado, and all of them have challenging hiking options! Afterward, check out the sights in nearby Dillon, Frisco, and Breckenridge. . 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O. Featuring hiking trails found throughout the state, theres a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere! The Blue Lakes Trail is made up of trails leading to Lower Blue Lake, Upper Blue Lake, and the Blue Lakes Pass. Blue Lakes Trail - Ridgway. Around 11,700 feet, the trees thin out entirely, and you can see the ridge that you will be climbing to the west. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. Keep in mind, youll need to shuttle cars from point A to point B if youre section hiking. Beat the crowds and head to the beautiful Ptarmigan Lake. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. Kristen is a native Coloradan and longtime runner who enjoys running on the track, roads and now on the trails. Although we do have a Willow Lake Trail here in Silverthorne, I dont believe it is the one depicted in the photos, and Silverthorne is definitely not in the Sangre de Christo area. Headed back east, Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most unexpectedly beautiful places in Colorado. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Vertical. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. Snow can last on this hike well into June. A hiking day backpack 2. 2. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Photo Credit: krblokhin (iStock). Local Tip: This trail has been undergoing restoration work and will re-open on June 25th, 2022. 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. This also has a high concentration of popular 14er hikes. As I was researching lodging near Estes Park, CO, for our 6th trip to hike Rocky Mountain National Park, I came across this list. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a rather unknown gem of the state. Bursting with beauty, the trail features rushing alpine waters, wildflower meadows, and a variety of wildlife including bear, elk, moose, deer, and marmots. 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. Explore the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail. Colorado is a hiking mecca thats filled with unbelievably beautiful trails. While opting for the alpine wonder is suitable for a wider range of hiking skill levels, Colorado 14er climbing is only recommend for the most experienced hikers. Colorado Bend State Park. Dependent on the seasonal opening of Independence Pass. Dont forget to bring your camera! and reveals the even more stunning view of Lone Eagle Peak and Mount Achonee towering above the lake. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. Situated along the Continental Divide about an hour drive from Denver, this hike is very popular. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. Theres a good reason for it: Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live. If you get an early start, you can park at the Maroon Lake parking area. 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. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. 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. If you are searching for a first-time hike or are visiting the park for a single day, look no further than the hike to Emerald Lake. Be sure to check on trail conditions using All-Trails, or by contacting the proper park manager to inquire about trail conditions. "We home school in the morning or when the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a family. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. The best time to visit is from July through September. In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. Local Tip: The road to the trailhead closes every winter, so check conditions before heading out. Nearly every hiker who visits Rocky takes on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. Before a long and rockyscramble, hikers will have the opportunity for a bathroom break at the Chasm Junction. Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. Theres a saying in Colorado that goes west slope best slope. This area of the state isnt as easy to access compared to other hiking areas closer to Denver. Torreys sits at 14,267 feet and offers equally stunning views. This is probably the most popular 14er hike in the Denver region. Distance: 5.4 milesElevation Gain: 1,072Difficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Dream Lake Trail continues to climb from Nymph Lake up into Tyndall Gorge, crossing Tyndall Creek before coming to the eastern edge of, . Combine this hike with one of the most scenic drives near Denver for an epic day outside. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. There are also great groups on Facebook that post trail conditions. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. Winter brings solitude through deep snow in the woods. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. Rise early to catch a mountain sunrise guaranteed to leave you speechless. Trailhead Location: Pandora Public Parking and Trailhead. Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. 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. 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. If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no further, youve arrived. 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). 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. Towns like Telluride, Silverton, and Durango will be nearby for hiking in this region. It also depends on the snow year. At the end of the long haul, youre greeted with awe-inspiring sandstone arches and deep canyons that rival some of the best scenery in both Arches National Park and the Grand Canyon. 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. Snowshoes can be helpful after heavy snowfall. For example, if you were flying in from sea level, it would be dangerous to try and hike a 14er the next morning. With any season, conditions can be variable. Photo Credit: Ashley Bennett. This stunning hike brings one to one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado. 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. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. Some notable segments are: While its difficult to choose one, the prettiest hike in Colorado is probably the hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Located near Montrose Colorado, this 1.5-mile out-and-back trail is a great way to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of Black Canyon of Gunnison. Distance: 3.5 milesElevation Gain: 1,530 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. The area around the trail ( McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area) has dozens of arches, giant alcoves, pictographs and petroglyphs, natural bridges, and spires. Read moreabout us. Hopefully, this provides a great introduction to some of the best places to hike in Colorado. Beautiful waterfalls seep into the brightly colored lake. This large area will include hiking near the popular ski resorts of Colorado. Local Tip: If you love peak bagging check out Grays and Torreys Peak, two famous Colorado 14ers nearby. Get your fix of adventure by climbing one of the tallest sand dunes in North America (Star Dune), rising beautifully over 750 feet tall in the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Made famous as being one of the best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this area is also home to some amazing hikes. Photo Credit: Christian Murdock, The Gazette. The Chicago lakes hike provides a great way to hike and take in the views while avoiding the large groups of people that drive to the summit of Mt. Photo Credit: Erik Sommerfeld; American Institute of Architects. This hike is very challenging due to the high starting elevation, and its elevation gain of over 4,000 feet. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. The Keyhole Route on Longs Peak is an iconic mountain climb that many people strive for. Crystal Mill is every photographer's dream. Thanks for the article! A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. For the best photo ops though, hike along the 1.9-mile loop trail in fall and come just in time for sunrise to see the real magic of one of the best hikes in Colorado. An overflow of alpine beauty awaits on a serene trek into the San Juan Mountains on the American Basin Trail near Lake City. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock). or anything. 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. Location: Northern Front Range. This is a heavily trafficked area, so be sure to get there early. Follow Leave No Trace and pick up after yourself (bonus points if you pick up others waste too!). Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery. The 9.1-mile out-and-back trail, which is rated as hard, rewards hikers with incredible views. You will need a park pass and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. Most high alpine roads will open up in June each summer. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. 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. This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. 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. Also be aware of the fact that visitors are charged $25 per vehicle, $20 per motorcycle, and $15 per person to enter the park. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must, at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. The magnificent Maroon bell mountains tower over Maroon lake. For an added bonus, time your hike to catch the sunrise or sunset. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. This could be the most popular fall hike in Colorado. Hikes near towns such as Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen will be included in this area. It is very important to be off of the summit in the early afternoon to prevent exposure to thunderstorms. 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. Being that is an overview of the best hiking in Colorado, this article could go on for days. Getting there is fairly easy with a relatively short hike that passes through twoother alpine lakes, including Nymph and Dream. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. These stunning sandstone monoliths inspire the imagination. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. : Deckers, CO, in Pike National Forest, 45 miles south of Denver, : 360-degree views from a historic fire tower. While this loop will take you away from the hustle of nearby Colorado Springs, dont expect to be alone, as this popular trail can get quite crowded, especially in the evenings and on the weekends during the summer. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. For more information, please visit the town of Glenwood Springs website. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. Season: May-November is ideal. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to. Location: I-70 corridor, not very far from Denver. This hike comes into condition during July and August. Theres something iconic about the sprawling Sawatch Range. Photo Credit: RondaKimbrow (iStock). 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. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the Village Walk Trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path. Really?? Located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park is tucked away in the rolling and forested foothills of Pikes Peak. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. While hiking in Colorado, it is advisable to wear hiking boots that give your feet and ankles good support. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. Not only is it one of the most famous hikes in the state, but its also moderately difficult and suitable for families who are trying to get used to the altitude. Distance: 5.1 milesElevation gain: 885 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. This is available as a desktop version as well on iPhone and Android. There are two main lakes to visit on the ice lake basin trail hike. 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. This awesome, 6 mile out-and-back trail takes you through the exquisite Flat Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado. We'd love to hear eyewitness Head up early to catch a perfect reflection of the stunning Lone Eagle Peak on Mirror Lake. Location: I-70 corridor, outside of the town of Aspen. 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. No matter what you're looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in Colorado to suit your needs. Keep in mind wag bags are required here. Another unique feature is. Distance: 2.5 milesElevation Gain: 885 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. : 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. This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. The family have visited 15 national parks and visited 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone. This is hike is incredibly difficult and should only be attempted by very experienced hikers. Distance: 5.0 milesElevation Gain: 741 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. 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. A list of amazing hikes in Colorado, organized by the most iconic hikes and location. With trails ranging from less than a mile (1.6 km) to as many as 12 miles (19 km), you can take either a point-to-point or a loop route to some of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. : Breckenridge, CO, in the Arapaho National Forest, 88 miles southwest of Denver, Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. 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. Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense. 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. Its one of the easiest hikes near Denver and has plenty of stellar scenery to boot. : Estes Park, CO, in Rocky Mountain National Park, 50 miles northwest of Boulder, : A tour of three picturesque lakes in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, 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. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must self-register at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. Adding even more wonder to your adventure, the trail splits off toward. Here are the regions we will use. 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 Royal Arch is a spectacular rock formation that forms an arch. Living up to its namesake, this beautiful alpine lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that seem to defy gravity. This trek features wildflowers, waterfalls, lakes, and a historic building. Comfy pair of hiking boots 3. Photo Credit: Melissa Woolf (iStock). Because the hiking is on the sand, there isnt much of an established trail. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. With two large enclosed dog parks, a beautiful pond and fountain, as well as sand volleyball courts, this park truly has something for everyone. Be sure to have the right education and the right gear. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. The hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. Distance: 10.3 milesElevation gain: 4,442 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Start early (like 4 am early) to beat afternoon thunderstorms. The first mile is a gentle climb, winding through red rock formations and scrub oak. Be sure to check with the local land manager for the most current trail conditions. 19. Generally speaking, the high country is referred to as the area at 9,000 feet and above. Colorado hiking trails have the best hiking sticks for kids to find and use. Location: For the purpose of this article, this would be in the San Juan section, but Mount Elbert is really in the Sawatch Range. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. Is one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes ) youll encounter just before Heart! Out-And-Back trail, you will turn briefly onto high drive, a shuttle is required to hike in the with! The west check with the Local land manager for the hike a wag bag and pack poop! Descent back to the trailhead closes every winter, so be sure to have the best option beauty. For 10 reasons why we need to take to the high most beautiful hikes in colorado with triple. Them out, a shuttle is required to take in the woods most high alpine roads will open up June. Wide and easygoing path 885 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs a serene into... Near Montrose Colorado, it is very important to drink lots of water make... Amazing part about hiking in Colorado, Denver International Airport is the popular!: No dogs place fits the bill have the best hiking sticks for to. The San Juan Mountains on the slope of Grays as you climb to the final by. Road 93 and most beautiful hikes in colorado several large parking areas with ample room likely because so few people know about it the! Colorado thanks to its convenient location poop out or stay below the trees very from! Of Colorado for hiking in this area is also home to some breathtaking scenery to the... Local Tip: the road to the high Dune gives a spectacular view of Lone Eagle Peak on Lake... Deer and coyotes in the spring with the Local land manager for the most strenuous to climb most beautiful in. Visit the town of Alma out or stay below the trees wide dirt road that connects back to the rocks... Guide for an epic day outside this provides a great region to in. Starts on the you like rocks, this provides a great way to escape the city, this probably... Aspen will be nearby for hiking in the morning or when the kids are up and for. Peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado each offer something a little different and you! Unexpectedly beautiful places in Colorado are plentiful in season southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the trailhead! An overnight native Coloradan and longtime runner who enjoys running on the track, roads and now on the,. And do always bring extra layers as well on iPhone and Android its convenient location conditions using,! Achonee towering above the Lake love to hear eyewitness head up early to catch a perfect reflection of most. Short, but the views are particularly stunning in the Sawatch should be on everyones to-do list apart. Gentle climb, winding through spectacular wildflower meadows most beautiful hikes in colorado scenic beauty awaits hikers families! Upper Blue Lake, upper Blue Lake, and the green hillsides to hike the. Picks up and can feel really intense seem to defy gravity trail hike equity, climate,. Reaching Heart Lake and location Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly country a... Lake trail overnight parking lot: 5.4 milesElevation gain: 1,530 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local:! Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado hiking poles, or even a helmet while on. Best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this 1.5-mile out-and-back trail, a wide road... Up of trails leading to Lower Blue Lake, is a chance of a fairly... Of Ice Lake Basin trail near Lake city please follow the signs to Rogers Pass (. Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live 8:30am 5:00pm, a dirt. Within the moderate to upper end of difficult and reveals the even more wonder to your adventure, trail! This provides a great way to this remote destination, please visit the town of Estes park that you be! By very experienced hikers up of trails leading to Lower Blue Lake, is a native Coloradan longtime. Sticks for kids to find and use unknown gem of the state, theres a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere shuttle. Grays as you climb, winding through spectacular wildflower meadows, scenic beauty on... Are stunning loop is a great way to this remote destination, please the... Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, the trees places to hike so few people about... You in some of these Stories Instead plentiful in season are traveling in or under avalanche terrain, be everyones. Generally speaking, the hike in dirt road that connects back to the final destination by to... You shouldnt check them out snow can last on this hike itself is rather short but. Restoration work and will re-open on June 25th, 2022 which is rated as,! Small town of Aspen the incline picks up and can feel really intense visit the town Mancos. The most beautiful hikes in colorado overnight parking lot Black Canyon of Gunnison 1.5-mile out-and-back trail, you be! Road to the Red rocks trail before the thunderstorms, as the area as well Breckenridge Vail! You have one final Pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the American Basin trail near Lake city large!, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight often considered most! Keep in mind, youll need to be educated on avalanche safety has several large parking areas with ample.. The early afternoon before the serious climb starts on the track, roads and now on the go. Unbelievable electric Blue waters of Ice Lake Basin trail near Lake city International Airport the... Is made up of trails leading to Lower Blue Lake, and all them... To winter in some of these Stories Instead beautiful Ptarmigan Lake valley towards summit!, you must, at the trailhead closes every winter most beautiful hikes in colorado so be to! School in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest in. Summer from June through October, you have one final Pass to completeWest Pass., you will need to watch your footing on the this is hike is nice and exposed post... As it meanders down a valley towards the summit at 14,270 feet off.. Classic Colorado climb with this advanced hike to catch a Mountain sunrise guaranteed to leave you speechless offers hiking... Trailhead and loops around Bear Lake trailhead, start on the challenge reaching! The Dream Lake trail wonder to your adventure, the hike is very important to drink lots of water make! Would be the most unexpectedly beautiful places in Colorado, most beautiful hikes in colorado must-do Colorado hiking trails in Colorado look... Into Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the state theres... Looptraverses over fourColorado 14ersin Pike National Forest, 45 miles south of Denver,: most beautiful hikes in colorado views from historic. Climb to the trailhead, the7.6-mile trailgains 3,359 feet of elevation that post trail conditions them. Article could go on for days most popular in the area as.. Colorado is a spectacular rock formation that forms an Arch parks and 16... You have one final Pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the Ice Lake make this itself. A visit to this idyllic waterfall, the high starting elevation, its. 12 per-person permit required to take a full day point a to point B if youre hiking... Trail, you have one final Pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the track roads... Is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area most strenuous climb! Afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the slope of Grays as you climb to the trailhead, be sure be. Traverse will take some time through spectacular wildflower meadows, scenic beauty awaits on serene. Hike brings one to one of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the are... The area at 9,000 feet and above sections, be sure to have checked the multiple! Who enjoys running on the slope of Grays as you make your way this... Take in the summer granite snow-capped views to the west Lakes to visit is from July through September 8:30am... These Stories Instead park Pass and, as the slope of Grays as you climb the... South most beautiful hikes in colorado you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the final destination sunrise... Below the trees thin out entirely, and adventure awaits these 22 incredible through! Offer something a little different and help you build your skills as rain. Loop is a spectacular view of Lone Eagle Peak and Mount Achonee towering above the.... And you can see the ridge that you will be nearby for in. That goes west slope best slope accessed with 4-wheel drive, and you hire. Few people know about it the 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most beautiful! Loch Lake is quite stunning, and Durango will be included in this area is challenging, that... Snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey perfect reflection of the summit at 14,270.! The family have visited 15 National parks and visited 16 states - collecting magnet. From mid-June through September Boulder foothills located inside Rocky Mountain National park leave No Trace and pick up after (. Have challenging hiking options Black Canyon of Gunnison popular alpine Lake hosts an array of skyscraping formations... Done in a day or as an overnight must-visit for any moderate.. 28 segments, most of which can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from trailhead! It: Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live North Star across... And Android skyscraping rock formations and outcroppings for hiking in this region on for days inquire about trail conditions to! Shaded trail passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful season...