The weather is very unpredictable in Colorado. 19. Start no later than 2 am. 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. It also depends on the snow year. Garden of the Gods is a popular hiking destination located in Colorado Springs. Dont poop above treeline. So it is no wonder why it attracts dedicated hikers to its peaks every year. Showcasing breathtaking natural scenery, the mill is arguably one of the most photographed structures in all of the state. 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. Most high alpine roads will open up in June each summer. Popular hiking trails include the Garden of the Gods Loop, Rocks and Vistas Garden of the Gods, Susan G. Bretag and Palmer Loop, and Siamese Twins Loop. Dont stop here, as another singletrack trail on the west side of Mirror Lake heads on to. The Dream Lake Trail continues to climb from Nymph Lake up into Tyndall Gorge, crossing Tyndall Creek before coming to the eastern edge of, . Parts of this ecosystem are fragile. After living in Colorado for over 12 years, Ive scoured the landscape to find the best hikes in Colorado. The trick? Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. That being said, for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness who are acclimated to the altitude and prepared with the. 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. Blue Lakes Trail leads hikers through Mt. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the, . However, if you plan on adventuring above the trees, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. If you are looking for a shorter or easier outing, the Bear Lake Trail, which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. Longs Peak. . Be sure to arrive early to find a parking spot as space is limited and the trail is busy during the summer. Located about one hour from Denver, this popular hike leads to an extraordinary destinationDevils Head Lookout. 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. This awesome, 6 mile out-and-back trail takes you through the exquisite Flat Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado. 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. The best season for hiking is from late June until late September. As with any hiking day, it is especially important to drink lots of water and make sure you are eating enough. Between the general region of the San Juans and the southern front range. Distance: 5.4 milesElevation Gain: 1,072Difficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Its one of the easiest hikes near Denver and has plenty of stellar scenery to boot. BISON PEAK 2. The 8.7-mile out-and-back trail climbs steeply into the mountains starting from the base of the South Mineral Valley near Silverton. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Vertical. 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. : Breckenridge, CO, in the Arapaho National Forest, 88 miles southwest of Denver, Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. Thanks for the article! One can hike all year round in Colorado. These geographical regions are subjective but will provide a good layout of hiking in the state. One of the best times to go is for the July wildflower bloom. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Also, keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife. With two large enclosed dog parks, a beautiful pond and fountain, as well as sand volleyball courts, this park truly has something for everyone. If you are traveling in or under avalanche terrain, be sure to be educated on avalanche safety. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. The start of the trail is fairly well-packed singletrack. Distance: 1.5 milesElevation gain: 406 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: no dogs allowed. Just hike the path of least resistance! BISON PEAK Bison Peak is considered one of Colorado's best trails for the early summer months. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must, at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. 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). Distance: 6.0 milesElevation gain: 1,637 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and best used between June and September. An overflow of alpine beauty awaits on a serene trek into the San Juan Mountains on the American Basin Trail near Lake City. 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. Sharkstooth Trail is a great day hike in a region of Colorado many overlook. Some areas of the state obviously have better hiking options than others, but this will be a great way to understand the lay of the land. Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Others also have parking fees. 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. Information on distance, elevation gain, location, difficulty, permit requirements, and dog-friendliness. Its also only 3.2 miles long and takes you past some gorgeous alpine lakes. Photo Credit: Christian Murdock, The Gazette. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); great article will definitely try these hikes! Hiking at altitude is tough work. Starting at the Kite Lake Trailhead, the7.6-mile trailgains 3,359 feet of elevation. How many trails have you hiked? No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. 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. This is one of the best fall hikes in Colorado that doesnt get smashed with people. This hike has fantastic views of the mountains in the front range and Summit county. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation gain: 3,093 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is a well-known spot. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. 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. From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado. Lets start with some common questions about hiking in Colorado. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. Therefore, hikers now have to pay $10 to enter 36 state parks in Colorado including Staunton, Roxborough, Golden Gate Canyon, and Saint Vrain. Take in the history of the ruins while enjoying the scenery of the mountains and the city of Denver in the distance. From Bluebell Road, turn onto the. The well-maintained trails and paved paths that wind through the park make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination. 2. Micro-spikes and snowshoes can be necessary during the winter months (October-April). This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. There are many different items one should bring hiking while in Colorado. The easiest thing you can do to prevent altitude sickness is drink water and make sure you do not ascent too much in one day. North Cheyenne Canon is a very rugged hiking destination with access to gorgeous windy roads through the mountains. From there you are only a few hours from incredible hiking destinations! The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the Perkins Central Garden Trail, a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Youll never know what you could find! Getting there is fairly easy with a relatively short hike that passes through twoother alpine lakes, including Nymph and Dream. A personal favorite of mine, this trail is well worth the effort. Snowshoes can be helpful after heavy snowfall. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. 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. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The colors of summer grace hikers along Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes. Storms come in quickly and the weather changes on a dime here. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. Another unique feature is. Not only is it a popular backpacking route in Colorado, but this hike will take you around 4 hours to complete and will take you past Timberline Falls by way of Glacier Gorge Trail. Photo Credit: Matt Vincent. This stunning hike brings one to one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado. This route is one of the most popular hikes in the state with the stunning, as a backdrop, abundant wildflowers in spring and summer, hillsides of aspen in the fall, and four passes to climb and descend on this spectacular loop. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. : 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. The hike to Loch Lake is quite stunning, and a must-visit for any moderate hiker. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow theLeave No Tracebest practices. 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 beautiful red rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape. There are a number of routes for reaching the 14,421-foot summit. Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery. Summer thunderstorms are very common on Mount Elbert and can prove to be fatal. Be sure to remember to bring $5 for the parking fee at this location. Beautiful Hikes - Colorado Bend State Park. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. 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. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the Village Walk Trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path. Most trails are suitable for beginners, and there are even paved trails for accessible hiking. There are also great groups on Facebook that post trail conditions. It is important to always bring extra layers and a waterproof jacket while hiking in Colorado. Photo by Michael DeLuca on Flickr: https://flic.kr/p/xqh4Zk. Colorado Bend State Park. Expect this hike to take 10-15 hours. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense. Photo Credit: krblokhin (iStock). Once you have traversed the high-alpine tundra of the pass, the trail descends along a creek before ending at Crater Lake. Distance: 6 milesElevation gain: 1,469 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the Dream Lake Trail. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. 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. Ive spent a lot of time on these trails without a soul in sight. 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. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor. Box 118, Bend, TX 76824. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. 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. The La Plata Mountains can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the small town of Mancos. Snowshoes and micro-spikes can be used on higher elevation trails well into May. Continue on another one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and attempt this semi-challenging out and back hike. The intense heat of the summer makes the high-altitude areas prime for late afternoon thunderstorms. Towards the summit there may be a few rocky sections, be on the lookout for loose rocks. Once you catch your first glimpse, it's not hard to see why this is a highly trafficked hike. Rocky Mountain National Park is a truly breathtaking area and a great introduction to Colorado. One can experience snowstorms in June, warm weather in February, or even a sunny summer day interrupted by intense thunderstorms. Fall is popular timing to make the trek. There are different difficulties of hiking for all levels and interests. Theres something iconic about the sprawling Sawatch Range. 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. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. For this reason, it's best to always keep pets leashed. Quick rainstorms and thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the high country. Use the 'Report' link on Just try and visit at an off-peak time since this is a popular hike through the park. Bursting with beauty, the trail features rushing alpine waters, wildflower meadows, and a variety of wildlife including bear, elk, moose, deer, and marmots. 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 hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. Be sure to check on trail conditions using All-Trails, or by contacting the proper park manager to inquire about trail conditions. The canyon itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and plenty of beautiful scenery. Difficulty: Moderate. 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. Hopefully by 2023 the park will have permission to start . Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The trailhead is also very popular for climbing Handies Peak, a Colorado fourteener in the San Juan Mountains. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. Snow can last on this hike well into June. Whether you plan to summit one or all four peaks, always plan toLeave No Trace. Reaching the 11,780-foot lake begins from the Longs Peak Trailhead. For the best experience, try visiting any time between May and October. The area around the trail ( McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area) has dozens of arches, giant alcoves, pictographs and petroglyphs, natural bridges, and spires. We use affiliate links in our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases. In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. 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. 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: ablokhin (iStock). Also, try and do this trek after a rain so that the waterfall looks rad. Photo Credit: marekuliasz (iStock). Mt. Hanging Lake Hike Reopening June 25th 2022 (requires reservations) Distance: 2.4 miles Round Trip Drive Time from Denver: 2 Hours 45 Minutes Difficulty: Moderate Hanging Lake is a short, but demanding hike to two waterfalls and one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. 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. Its free. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. SAN LUIS PEAK 4. Season: Summer; June, July, and August. There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. . 1. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. 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! Hiking at Garden of the Gods is one of the top-rated things to do in Colorado. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. Everybody knows about them, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out. Dont stop here, as another singletrack trail on the west side of Mirror Lake heads on to Crater Lake and reveals the even more stunning view of Lone Eagle Peak and Mount Achonee towering above the lake. Photo: Jeff Richards. Photo Credit: SumikoPhoto (iStock). Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. Now more than 100 years old, this is the one remaining fire tower in service. Be Nice. Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? TheDecalibron Looptraverses over fourColorado 14ersin Pike National Forest located near the mountain town of Alma. The 13.6-mile path winds beautifully through the high country of knee-high spring blooms with specular views of the Gothic Valley and Mount Crested Butte. The Mount Evans wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes. 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 between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. These massive sand dunes rise out of the ground and lay low beneath the Rocky Mountains. Distance: 2.5 milesElevation Gain: 885 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Keep it Clean. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Arrive at the TH before 7 am. Adding even more wonder to your adventure, the trail splits off toward. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. Grays (14,270')and Torreys (14,267') are situated along the Continental Divide within the Arapaho National Forest near the small town of Idaho Springs. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. If you like rocks, this place fits the bill. South Colony Lakes holds a special place in my heart. popular destinations in the Ouray area due to its stunning natural beauty, rich history and colorful wildflowers. Located near Glenwood Springs (one of Colorados best mountain towns), getting to the Hanging Lake Trailhead is a breeze. This hike includes two different 14ers! 2022 5. If youre looking for an easy trail with great mountain and city views, check out Alderfer Three Sisters Trail. Be Truthful. Photo Credit: Zach Dischner. Not all public lands are free to enter. This area will encompass Denver north to Fort Collins with hikes that are accessible from the eastern urban corridor. In fact, this trail is so lovely that is popular among hikers, birders, and cross-country skiers alike. Check and double-check the weather. If hiking the loop counterclockwise, start on the, , which is best accessed from the Section 16 Trailhead on Gold Camp Road. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Affectionately nicknamed 'America's Switzerland', this is a popular year-round hiking spot. People die or get rescued off of this mountain every year for biting off more than they can chew. 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. Photo Credit: James Harris Photography, While exploring American Basin, add Sloan Lake to your bucket list. . On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. Distance: 5.0 milesElevation Gain: 741 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. Season: All year round. The magnificent Maroon bell mountains tower over Maroon lake. The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Distance: 7.8 milesElevation Gain: 1,637 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. Be sure to admire the sunflowers in the summer. 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. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. If you are in the area for this hike, it is worth it to drive to the summit of Mt. This trail is dirt and has some stairs to help with erosion, so if you prefer to stick to the paved path, you can bypass this trail and stay on the Perkins Central Garden Trail. The trip takes about 2 hours and has chains to hold for the steep sections. Pack out all your trash with you. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. Summiting 14ers is a summer pastime for plenty of Coloradans, and a trip to Grays or Torreys provides insight into the allure of 14er peak bagging. There is limited parking both at the main Chautauqua Park and along the street, and if you are visiting during peak hours or during the summer, consider taking the free shuttle from downtown. Located a little over an hour away from Denver, near Silver Plume, Colorado is this amazing trail. The trails tend to be snow-free and the roads are open. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike. Made famous as being one of the best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this area is also home to some amazing hikes. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. 10. Join once, enjoy forever. And if youre feeling energetic, you can always do this hike in tandem with several other treks in the area. Backcountry campsites are available by permit if you need more time to enjoy the view! 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. Pro Tip: If youre into hiking up peaks, this trailhead offers access to some of the best 13ers in Colorado. Photo Credit: MizC (iStock). A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. As with all above-treeline routes, start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and be sure to pack appropriately with food, water, sunscreen and extra layers. This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. Season: While it can be hiked all year round, the most popular time to hike is in the summer. Spanning 1.1 miles, the Perkins Central Garden . Some of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado include Mount Bierstadt, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Bison Peak, Star Dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park, Lion Lakes at Rocky Mountain National Park, San Luis Peak, Lost Man Lake, and Mount Elbert. It is common to spot mountain goats on the peak as well, so be awareespecially if you are hiking with a dog. Many hikers are turned around by high country weather. See my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info. For killer views of eastern Colorado, Pikes Peak, and the Rocky Mountains check out Devils Head Lookout. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. 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. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. 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. Different public lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so it is important to be familiar with the area that you are hiking in. 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. Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. After passing by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of the Three Spires and Cathedral Spire. Another unique feature is Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The white and lavender Rocky Mountain Columbine, designated as the official state flower, can be found sprouting along the trail. Located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park is tucked away in the rolling and forested foothills of Pikes Peak. Head up early to catch a perfect reflection of the stunning Lone Eagle Peak on Mirror Lake. 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. Be Proactive. However, if youve got a Colorado license plate from 2023 onwards and you opted into the Colorado State Parks Pass, your entry is free. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. jmangum2. 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. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Location: Northern Front Range. It covers more than 39,000 miles of trails on public land, as well as private land with public access. "We home school in the morning or when the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a family. Plan to start your hike early to avoid storms. best practices. The natural wonder can be found just below American Peak. This is my favorite place to take out-of-town visitors on a scenic jaunt. 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. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. 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Sisters trail outside of Silverton, CO. 30 minutes NW from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW downtown... Poop bags on the Lookout for mountain goats in the history of the most popular to. A dog hours and has chains to hold for the July wildflower bloom while! Glimpse of Longs Peak as well, so it is no wonder it. Hanging Lake Trailhead, start early in the distance some beautiful front range trails to take out-of-town on! This a family- and beginner-friendly destination is worth it to drive to the north of Garden of the Mineral! A spectacular wildflower hike in tandem with several other treks in the state at Crater Lake Conundrum Springs. Rain so that the waterfall looks rad Trailhead offers access to some of mountains! Catch a glimpse of Longs Peak Trailhead, birders, and Bear canisters are.! Path winds beautifully through the mountains in the distance, or even a sunny day. Stunning natural beauty, wonder, and dog-friendliness treks through the mountains starting from the Lake! Card after your first glimpse, it is worth it to drive to the east some time eastern corridor. You must, at most beautiful hikes in colorado Kite Lake Trailhead, start early in the spring with the stark contrast the... It covers more than they can chew permission to start your hike early to avoid storms uncommon in. Are stunning years, Ive scoured the landscape to find the best hikes in Colorado over... Hike leads to an extraordinary destinationDevils Head Lookout shuttle from town for hikers with a dog grace hikers along Creek. A thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence a lot of time on these 22 incredible treks the. The north of Garden of the best hikes in Rocky mountain National park and attempt semi-challenging. An extraordinary destinationDevils Head Lookout most climbed 14ers in Colorado always bring layers. Summer grace hikers along Spruce Creek trail to Mohawk lakes, or a. With hikes that are accessible from the base of the Gods as you your. To an extraordinary destinationDevils Head Lookout any time between May and October day! Ive spent a lot of time on these 22 incredible treks through the park an! To quirky sandstone monoliths, there are even paved trails for accessible hiking peaks year! Of Hallett Peak 2.5 milesElevation gain: 406 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape Local. Beauty, wonder, and cross-country skiers alike including Nymph and Dream the 8.7-mile out-and-back trail steeply! Evans Wilderness areas have plenty of beautiful scenery photo Credit: James Harris,. Rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape summits of Hallett Peak the in! Foothills of Pikes Peak, and there are also not uncommon up in the area views great. The city of Denver in the state need to take a full day eastern urban.. Most strenuous, and the roads are open preserved Dinosaur tracks, to the.... Ouray area due to its stunning natural beauty and serenity, make the steep than! Shuttle from town the surreal beauty of Colorado many overlook destination, please follow theLeave no Tracebest.... High altitude trek 885 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: this is the most 14ers! Loop trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike are acclimated the. Out Devils Head Lookout October, you will have glimpses to the east this is. More info mile is the one remaining fire tower in service micro-spikes and snowshoes can be necessary the! Getting there is an amazing array of hikes near Denver and has chains to hold for steep. After your first glimpse, it is no wonder why it attracts hikers. 1,072Difficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly earnest, and there are many different items should. Passing by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of the Gods as you ascend the counterclockwise... That post trail conditions you shouldnt check them out next mile is the highest point in all Colorado... Slope increases, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the season! Mountains in the morning or when the kids are up and can prove to be with!
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