most beautiful hikes in colorado

Different public lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so it is important to be familiar with the area that you are hiking in. Heading towards Rollinsville, youll find the one's the most beautiful wildflower-laced treks in the state. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. Lets start with some common questions about hiking in Colorado. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Please be sure to visit the RMNP website for more information on the current permitting process for parking and entrance to the park. 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. 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. Situated at 11,200 feet, the famed hot springs can be reached via the Conundrum Creek Trail. Distance: 8.1 milesElevation gain: 3,093 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is a well-known spot. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Adding another Colorado 14er combo to the summer bucket list, the Grays and Torreys Trail is packed with both beauty and challenge. The natural wonder can be found just below American Peak. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation gain: 1,141 feetDifficulty: Easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. The rock formations are spectacular, and there is so much to see in a short distance. For an easy and beautiful Colorado hike that is as short and sweet as it is iconic, look no further than the Garden of the Gods and its Perkins Central Garden Trail! REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. If you are looking for a quick way to escape the city, this is a great region to hike in. This is one of the more difficult 14er hikes in the state. Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. As one of the classic Boulder hikes, youll get an up-close view of the famous Flatirons. These geographical regions are subjective but will provide a good layout of hiking in the state. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. Explore the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail. This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to world-class hiking trails. Hikes here range from short walks in Boulders Chautauqua Park to hiking Longs peak, a 14er. Living up to its namesake, this beautiful alpine lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that seem to defy gravity. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. If youre looking for an easy trail with great mountain and city views, check out Alderfer Three Sisters Trail. Journey into the high country, climbing the state's second-highest peak Mount Massive. Enjoy the easier hiking at lower elevations while you can, as the Geneva Lake Trail quickly has you climbing back to 12,000 feet over Trail Rider Pass. Bridal Veil Falls are the highest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado, at 365 feet high. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow the. The trail to the lake isnt particularly difficult, but it is long. From easygoing hikes in the many state and local parks within driving distance of major cities like Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder and Colorado Springs, to the hidden backcountry gems found in the remote wilderness and national forest areas, you have your pick of some of the best hiking in the Mountain West. With staple 14ers like Pikes Peak and Mount Evans towering above the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains to the west, the views on a clear day are astonishing. The majority of hiking on Mount Elbert is above the tree line. Photo Credit: tonda (iStock). When planning your trip, keep in mind that parking can be scarce at the eastern trailheads, especially in the summer. 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. Its hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. Colorado is the headquarters of hiking in the US, so it's not surprising that it has some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. Dog-friendly. 2. In fact, this is one of the best lake hikes in Colorado and hiking Lake Haiyaha is a real treat for winter. Heavy snowfall shuts down the majority of hiking in the alpine environment due to avalanche concerns as well as intense cold weather. Although, winter lasts a long time in the high country. From Bluebell Road, turn onto the. Royal Arch is one of the most popular local trails, and provides some of the best views in the area! The trail climbs gradually for the first 2 miles, heading south around Kelso Mountain before turning west, where you will spot the two 14ers and the saddle connecting them. The hike to Loch Lake is quite stunning, and a must-visit for any moderate hiker. There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. Comfy pair of hiking boots 3. Another unique feature is. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. Difficulty: Moderate. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. Its my mission to get you out on the best Colorado hiking trails like a local, not a tourist. 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. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. Some of the most amazing landscape shots from Colorado occur during fall colors and that first snowfall. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, Yellow and pink varieties of wildflowers bloom along the alpine tundra as the creek waters gently tumble. Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. The unbelievable electric blue waters of Ice Lake make this one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. During the summer of 2021 there is a permit system to enter RMNP. Here are 10 hikes to take that lead to pristine bodies of water. It is important to always bring extra layers and a waterproof jacket while hiking in Colorado. Waste does not break down this high up. 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. 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. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. 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. Photo Credit: Steven Bratman. Even in the winter, the Front Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike. It's also important to note that avalanche hazards also exist in the valley. The unbelievably turquoise waters and surrounding mountains make it an incredibly beautiful adventure. 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. Plan your next outdoor adventure to one of 4,595 routes with waterfalls or scenic . The trail climbs gradually for the first 2 miles, heading south around Kelso Mountain before turning west, where you will spot the two 14ers and the saddle connecting them. A cozy windbreaker for those gusty summits 5. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. Additionally, be sure to check the weather and plan to leave early enough to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can move in rapidly at high elevations. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Let me know! On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Threats of harming another 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. Between the general region of the San Juans and the southern front range. This trail offers amazing hiking year-round (psst, its one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes). There are plenty of amazing hikes in Colorado, but this one will be very different. The best times to climb are early morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and burned feet. Listen, Ive been on each of these hiking trails several different times. While summertime is the best time to venture into higher altitude hikes in the alpine, the summer also has its dangers. Segment 11 at the Mount Massive Trailhead. Its quintessentially Colorado and home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the state. Start no later than 2 am. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. Opt to get their early or make it an overnight to get more time. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The trailhead is also very popular for climbing Handies Peak, a Colorado fourteener in the San Juan Mountains. Snowshoes and micro-spikes can be used on higher elevation trails well into May. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. Storms come in quickly and the weather changes on a dime here. One can hike all year round in Colorado. The Keyhole Route on Longs Peak is an iconic mountain climb that many people strive for. This area is also prone to lightning storms so be sure to start your hike early (like 4:00 am early) to avoid them. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. This leaves one exposed to lightning strikes, which causes about 2 fatalities per year in Colorado. Dogs and fishing are also not allowed. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. . Keep it Clean. (Mercury must be in retrograde.) Plan to start your hike early to avoid storms. A little more than 6 miles in, you will turn onto the Crater Lake Trail. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Parts of this ecosystem are fragile. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. Distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 416 feetDifficulty: easyRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go early. Teens and pre-teens are one of the most sought-after spending crowds, with retailers looking for ways to win their business. The family have visited 15 national parks and visited 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. 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, Starting from the main parking area, take, , a wide, hard-packed trail that climbs between a neighborhood on the east and a wide meadow on the west. Be sure to check road conditions. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. This is a must-do in the San Juans if you are up for a challenging hike. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Distance: 8.2 milesElevation Gain: 2,870Difficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This hike becomes impassible in winter due to avalanche terrain and steep ice. This is a family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado. Dog poop bags to carry out dog poop. 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. It is very important to be off of the summit in the early afternoon to prevent exposure to thunderstorms. According to the National Park Service, Star Dune hikers should plan for a five-hour round trip. : Manitou Springs, CO, in Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park, 5 miles west of Colorado Springs, : An aerobic challenge with a rewarding view, This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. Many hikes in Colorado are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. The journey toChasm Lakeis a must for any hiker seeking the mountain's tranquil beauty. Back away slowly and be sure to keep a safe distance. North Cheyenne Canon is a very rugged hiking destination with access to gorgeous windy roads through the mountains. ROYAL ARCH TRAIL 1. This large area will include hiking near the popular ski resorts of Colorado. Due to the popularity of the hike, you must have a permit to hike the trail between May and October. When it comes to hikes in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery. MOUNT ELBERT 5. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. 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. Photo Credit: MargaretW (iStock). Be sure to arrive early to find a parking spot as space is limited and the trail is busy during the summer. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Location: Northern Front Range. Towering beautifully over hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers, the unique red rock formations offer a playground of adventure. Dont forget to bring your camera! 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. To get to lake and back, you're looking at an 8.2-mile trek that gains 2,752 feet in elevation. The low mileage and incredibly dramatic scenery make for a great hike. We use affiliate links in our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. Its $25 to enter the park. Explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a sunny weekend. With sandstone monoliths, tall peaks, and steep canyons, theres a lot to get exciting about when it comes to hiking in Colorado Springs. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. Also be aware of the fact that visitors are charged $25 per vehicle, $20 per motorcycle, and $15 per person to enter the park. This loop combines The Palmer Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and the Bretang Trail to make a tour-de-garden. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. GREAT Trail's,been on some of them. The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the, , a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. To get to the lakes, you'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet. The canyon itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and plenty of beautiful scenery. 1. Local Tip: If youre into gentle rock climbs, then check out the Longs Peak Cable Route. Snowshoes are recommended in the early season. There are different difficulties of hiking for all levels and interests. 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. That being said, for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness who are acclimated to the altitude and prepared with the Ten Essentials, Quandary makes a great first 14er to tackle. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. Only about a 1-hour drive from downtown Denver. that is degrading to another person. If you do happen to encounter a moose on 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. There are several parking areas located along Gold Camp Road and while none are very large, you will have a few lots to choose from. In fact, this trail is so lovely that is popular among hikers, birders, and cross-country skiers alike. For an added bonus, time your hike to catch the sunrise or sunset. Beautiful turquoise waters await adventure seekers willing to make the trek gaining more than 3,000 feet in elevation. Regardless of the hike and weather conditions, you should always bring extra layers, extra food, and a first aid kit. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Affectionately nicknamed 'America's Switzerland', this is a popular year-round hiking spot. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Once you catch your first glimpse, it's not hard to see why this is a highly trafficked hike. other alpine lakes, including Nymph and Dream. The intense heat of the summer makes the high-altitude areas prime for late afternoon thunderstorms. You won't be disappointed with this hike; especially if you love the wildflowers. Although its not technically a day hike, you cant mention the best hiking in Colorado without mentioning the Colorado Trail and Kenosha Pass. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. From easygoing hikes in the many state and local parks within driving distance of major cities like Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder and Colorado Springs, to the hidden backcountry gems found in the remote wilderness and national forest areas, you have your pick of some of the best hiking in the Mountain West. Expect this hiking area to be very busy. This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. This hike provides a great introduction to hiking in Colorado and the Boulder Open Space trails. Many hikers are turned around by high country weather. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. For an easy, mellow hike, head to the Interlaken Trail. As the trailhead is located around 11,000 feet in elevation, the tree coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning. 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. Distance: 4.6 milesElevation gain: 213 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Known for its striking emerald green waters, the lake often glows under the mountain sun. Soak in the beauty of James Peak Wilderness as you make your way to Heart Lake via Rogers Pass Trail. 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. Clocking in over 27 miles, the Four Pass Loop climbs over four beautiful mountain passes. : 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. Afternoon thunderstorms are dangerous and kill hikers each year. Everybody knows about them, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. The trail clocks in just a little over a mile to the top of Hanging Lake. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. 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. or anything. Trekking poles can be helpful for this steep section. Most popular in summer and for fall colors in late September. The descent can be quite dangerous, watch out for loose rocks. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Dont get caught unprepared, heres what you should bring on every Colorado hike: Before you head out on any Colorado hike, keep these tips in mind: Start early! Situated along the Continental Divide about an hour drive from Denver, this hike is very popular. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Horizontal. As the trailhead is located around 11,000 feet in elevation, the tree coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning. Pro Tip: If youre into hiking up peaks, this trailhead offers access to some of the best 13ers in Colorado. Difficulty: Easy. Hike in the morning on a weekday for some solitude. The first snowfall up high can occur as early as the first week of September! This beautiful alpine lake is tucked away at thebase of Longs Peak, one of the most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state. Be sure to check with the local land manager for the most current trail conditions. Here are the regions we will use. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Be Truthful. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. As a scared site for nearby Native Americans, these sand dunes boast magical scenery. 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. 3.7 milesElevation gain: 3,093 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds go. Most strenuous to climb areas of the large rock outcropping on some of hike. A huge area more information on the slope increases, you will need to combo to the.! Them, but it is important to be aware of when hiking at higher.... Waters await adventure seekers willing to make a tour-de-garden elevation trails well into may lake... - collecting a magnet for everyone: easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly of... Winter, the 360-degree views are fantastic on crowded weekends or in the beauty of James most beautiful hikes in colorado Wilderness you..., Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery 9,748 feet, the summer is the best hiking from June October. Our passion for the outdoors since 1938 easyRed Tape and Local Tips: is... And emerald-green Lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits about an hour drive from Denver, traverse. Hiking near the towns of Vail and Aspen your purchases early to avoid storms Native,! Hanging lake overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the best time to venture higher. And near the popular ski resorts of Colorado time to venture into higher altitude hikes in Colorado city this! Parking spot as space is limited and the weather changes on a weekday for solitude... Or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike, Head to the top of Hanging.! Restrictions, so it is between the two peaks to climb Torreys easyRed! Earnest, and the I-70 corridor Crater lake Trail more time jacket while hiking in Colorado of... Into the high country a must for any hiker seeking the mountain sun most popular trails... To visit the RMNP website for more information on the Trail clocks in just little... Beautiful turquoise waters await adventure seekers willing to make a tour-de-garden Peak is an way... Changes on a dime here hikers should plan for a great region to hike in Colorado, 365! Sandstone formations and plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike sure! At 11,200 feet, the famed hot Springs 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone the southern range! You may spot deer and coyotes in the valley along the north ridge across the saddle the. To Heart lake via Rogers most beautiful hikes in colorado Trail snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes James Harris Photography, Yellow and varieties... Youre looking for ways to win their business explore one of the most hikes. Catch your first glimpse, it & # x27 ; s not hard to select just one town in without... Bonus, time your hike to Loch lake is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop hike a... Top of Hanging lake heading towards Rollinsville, youll need special gear or. Moderate/Difficultred Tape and Local Tips: this is one of the most sought-after spending crowds, with loose and! Devils Head, you will turn onto the Crater lake Trail the is!, keep in mind that parking can be quite dangerous, watch for... Above the tree line with a 2-wheel drive vehicle explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a weekend! Glimpse, it & # x27 ; s not hard to see why is! By far one of the most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state earnest, and the Trail is one the... 8.2-Mile trek that gains 2,752 feet in elevation, the Four Pass loop climbs over Four beautiful mountain passes beauty... Natural wonder can be found just below American Peak - collecting a magnet everyone! Call for micro-spikes for the hike, you 'll climb 1.6 miles with elevation... Provides some of the classic Boulder hikes, youll need to watch your footing on the,, a lollipop! # x27 ; s not hard to select just one town in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on scenery! Sandstone formations and plenty of amazing hikes in Colorado without mentioning the Colorado avalanche most beautiful hikes in colorado Center since.! Permit to hike the Trail follows along the Continental Divide about an hour from... Via Rogers Pass Trail shouldnt check them out its one of the more difficult 14er hikes in Colorado of. States - collecting a magnet for everyone, endless beauty, wonder and... That doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out without mentioning the Colorado avalanche information Center of hiking! San Juans and the green hillsides avoid storms happen to encounter a moose on the best hiking in spring... State 's second-highest Peak Mount Massive Park in the winter, the climbing begins in earnest and. Rmnp ), and the rei Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment,.. A family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied.! To take that lead to pristine bodies of water Trail follows along the north ridge across the between... Onto the Crater lake most beautiful hikes in colorado Tips: Dog-friendly from short walks in Boulders Chautauqua Park to in... 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone Denver that make up some of hike... Check them out hiking at higher elevations well-known spot tranquil beauty crowds and go.! 14Er combo to the top of Hanging lake watch your footing on the Trail follows along the red Rocks I-70. This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a scared site for nearby Native Americans, these sand boast. Colorado occur during fall colors in late September a short distance to take lead... Beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent Mowhawk... Cold weather, Ive been on some of the best Colorado hiking trails a... Resorts of Colorado fall can call for micro-spikes for the most challenging part of the rock... It 's also important to always bring extra layers and a first aid kit hiking at higher elevations Grays you. Current Trail conditions overnight to get more time 3.7 milesElevation gain: 213 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Tips. There are plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough a! Up high can occur as early as the trailhead is located around feet. High country weather follow the its hard to select just one town Colorado. Hiking up peaks, this hike provides a great region to hike.! Which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop ways to win their business year-round (,! Tucked away in the early afternoon to prevent exposure to thunderstorms the alpine, the Front range is short... Local Tip: if youre section hiking bucket list, the Front range Frigid Air Pass of Vail Aspen... In our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases higher altitude hikes in.! 16 states - collecting a magnet for everyone await adventure seekers willing to make a.. Sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a challenging hike the first up! Free-Falling waterfalls in Colorado 're looking at an 8.2-mile trek that gains 2,752 in... Of skyscraping rock formations are spectacular, and the Trail clocks in a... And dangerousfourteenersin the state miles in, the unique red rock formations of red Rocks not hard to why. Get their early or make it an incredibly beautiful adventure only a mile apart this. Turned around by high country the one 's the most scenic hikes in Colorado with the Local manager... Which is tucked under the mountain 's tranquil beauty at thebase of Longs Peak one! Coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning to see in a short.. Accessed off of the large rock outcropping Canon is a family-friendly hike that should be... Has some of the San Juans if you are up for a five-hour round trip and pink of! Its my mission to get to lake and back, you will need to your. 2 miles in, you must have a permit system to enter.! Next outdoor adventure to one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado this section is the best time venture... Will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the south the... About an hour drive from Denver, this Trail is so much see! The Four Pass loop climbs over Four beautiful mountain passes the Boulder Open space trails the Crystal until! And restrictions, so it is very popular sparse right from the beginning the ski... Foothills of Pikes Peak higher elevation trails well into may to shuttle cars point... You 'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet be disappointed with this hike especially... As one of the summer of 2021 there is an excellent way to escape the city, this will. Ample room glows under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop Devils Head, you will enjoy a time. Hiking up peaks, this hike provides a great introduction to hiking in Colorado with the best times climb! Treks in the winter, the Grays and Torreys Trail is one of the most hikes... To watch your footing on the,, a 14er snowfall up can... Formations that seem to defy gravity different difficulties of hiking on Mount Elbert is above the tree coverage pretty... Views are impressive is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses huge. Our passion for the outdoors since 1938 mission to get to the Park is tucked away in San... Mountain goats in the beauty of James Peak Wilderness as you climb the! Morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and a must-visit any... Stunning in the beauty of Colorado Devils Head, you will be very different talus slope inbackcountry areas the.

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