Due to the low level of difficulty and its proximity to Denver, this hike can get very popular. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. 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. The altitude combined with lots of elevation gain makes for a tough hike. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. Distance: 6.7 milesElevation gain: 764 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Its my mission to get you out on the best Colorado hiking trails like a local, not a tourist. 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. Here are a few must-do hikes in the area. Keep it Clean. Explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a sunny weekend. 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. Go for sunrise. Distance: 5.1 milesElevation gain: 885 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Photo Credit: johnnya123 (iStock). This hike is mostly on the valley floor, passing multiple lakes on the way to the final pair of the Chicago lakes. a good rule of thumb is to be below treeline by noon. The La Plata Mountains can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the small town of Mancos. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. From there you are only a few hours from incredible hiking destinations! Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. However, if you plan on adventuring above the trees, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. It also serves as a highly visible landmark the notch in the ridge. Featured below will be some of the best hikes in Colorado for all different types of hikers that include some of the best views in the state. Many hikes in Colorado are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle. Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. A popular trail in this area is Seven Bridges Trail which is a 3.8 mile trail that is moderately difficult. Once you catch your first glimpse, it's not hard to see why this is a highly trafficked hike. Adding even more wonder to your adventure, the trail splits off toward. Located about one hour from Denver, this popular hike leads to an extraordinary destinationDevils Head Lookout. Mt. Colorado is known for its abundant sunny weather, mountain views and nearly year-round hiking opportunities. The following hikes are in no particular order and will provide some background information on hike length, difficulty, and accessibility. Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. Looking east from this vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver. Thanks for the article! If youre just getting into summiting mountains, then head up to the top of Mount Sniktau. 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. A hiking day backpack 2. Breathtaking is an appropriate way to describe the loop in many ways, as the route gains more than 7,300 feet and climbs above 12,000 feet at four different passesBuckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Airand West Maroon. This is available as a desktop version as well on iPhone and Android. From Bluebell Road, turn onto the Royal Arch Trail. In Boulder, Colorado, the Chautauqua walking trails offer a variety of beautiful day hikes in Colorado. Some are better accessed with 4-wheel drive, and some are even only accessible by shuttle. Distance: 6.3 milesElevation Gain: 1,755 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dont pick or prance around in the wildflowers. Read moreabout us. Distance: 4.6 milesElevation gain: 213 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. 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. When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no further, youve arrived. Another unique feature is Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. Once you are done enjoying the rewards of your climb, retrace your steps back down the saddle to connect to the main trail and return to the trailhead. Do not run. You can also access one of the best hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and then set off from there. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. While there is plenty of hiking all year round, hiking into the high alpine is best during July and August. Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. For an easy, mellow hike, head to the Interlaken Trail. This large area will include hiking near the popular ski resorts of Colorado. The lookout is accessible when staffed (typically mid-May through mid-September), and hikers can climb the 143 stairs up the side of Devils Head to the tower to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains. Photo Credit: Ashley Bennett. Explore the most popular trails in my list 101 most beautiful hikes in colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. A look at the tail-end of a sunrise as it hits the boulder field just below the Keyhole. No dogs. These sandstone tower formations are scattered around the park. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. Hike along the seven bridges and check out the beautiful waterfall. Longs Peak. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Quick rainstorms and thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the high country. Difficulty: moderate to hard. The best time to visit is from July through September. There are many different factors to consider while hiking in Colorado. Between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes. Photo Credit: ablokhin (iStock). 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. The low mileage and incredibly dramatic scenery make for a great hike. Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. Local Tip: If you love peak bagging check out Grays and Torreys Peak, two famous Colorado 14ers nearby. Lets start with some common questions about hiking in Colorado. : Morrison, CO, in Matthews/Winters Park, 15 miles west of Denver, : An easily accessible hike on Colorados Front Range. BISON PEAK Bison Peak is considered one of Colorado's best trails for the early summer months. The Mount Evans wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. Enjoy beautiful red rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape. I love to escape to the red sandstone canyons outside of Fruita, Colorado every winter. There are a number of routes for reaching the 14,421-foot summit. Photo Credit: James Harris Photography, While exploring American Basin, add Sloan Lake to your bucket list. This is one of the best fall hikes in Colorado that doesnt get smashed with people. Being on an exposed ridge top on a late summer day is one of the most dangerous places to be while hiking. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. These favorite hikes boast a wide range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. Distance: 6 milesElevation gain: 1,469 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Its also one of the best Colorado backpacking trips too! I actually bumped into Devils Canyon by accident, but Im glad I found this diamond in the rough. In many parts of the state, fall colors highlight the woods. Start no later than 2 am. Others also have parking fees. The hike starts from Monarch Lake on the Cascade Trail on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. 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. 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. This loop combines The Palmer Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and the Bretang Trail to make a tour-de-garden. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The best time of year to hike in Colorado. Now more than 100 years old, this is the one remaining fire tower in service. You will need a park pass and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. Listen, Ive been on each of these hiking trails several different times. Hiking water bottle for hydration 4. As you climb, keep your eyes open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Torreys sits at 14,267 feet and offers equally stunning views. To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. Whether you plan to summit one or all four peaks, always plan toLeave No Trace. Follow Leave No Trace and pick up after yourself (bonus points if you pick up others waste too!). Youll travel along an old railroad route in the heart of the southern foothills. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). If you are planning to do the hike as a quick overnight backpacking trip, you will need a permit, and all visitors will need to pay the small fee to park at the Monarch Lake Trailhead. . 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. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. 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. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. It is very important to be off of the summit in the early afternoon to prevent exposure to thunderstorms. If youre planning a visit to this remote destination, please follow theLeave No Tracebest practices. Torreys sits at 14,267 feet and offers equally stunning views. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Horizontal. Most hikers will start hiking around 3am in the summer. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. 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. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Photo Credit: Cheri Alguire (iStock). 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. Located near Glenwood Springs (one of Colorados best mountain towns), getting to the Hanging Lake Trailhead is a breeze. Evans as well. 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. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. : Georgetown, CO, in the Roosevelt National Forest, 55 miles west of Denver, The hike to Grays, and then onto Torreys gains a total of 3,479 feet in a little over four miles, following a section of the. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Typically the trail is snow-free from mid-June through mid-October. . You won't be disappointed with this hike; especially if you love the wildflowers. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass Trail back to the trailhead to complete the loop. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Location: San Juans. Summer thunderstorms are very common on Mount Elbert and can prove to be fatal. Here are the regions we will use. When she isnt running, she works as a trail content editor for Trail Run Project, where she now gets to spend her day dreaming about trails and adventuringthe perfect job since she cant run 24/7. Between the general region of the San Juans and the southern front range. Dont underestimate the difficulty of this route. Location: I-70 corridor, not very far from Denver. This is a family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado. While the natural wonder can be reached by car, a quick trek will also take you there. Theres also a serious avalanche risk, so be sure to understand the fundamentals of winter hiking before heading out. Its rugged and long and is only hike on this list that requires a helmet. 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O. If you're up for an early start, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be captured here. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Photo Credit: krblokhin (iStock). A lighter snow season will allow for earlier season hiking. This trail is accessible in the winter, but due to road closures, it would add upwards of 7 miles each way. Once you have traversed the high-alpine tundra of the pass, the trail descends along a creek before ending at Crater Lake. Distance: 3.1Elevation Gain: 990Difficulty: easy to moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Generally speaking, areas above 9,000 feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow. Kristen is a native Coloradan and longtime runner who enjoys running on the track, roads and now on the trails. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. Be sure to be physically prepared for this hike. The 15 Best Hikes in Colorado - PureWow Something Went Wrong. Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado. For example, if you were flying in from sea level, it would be dangerous to try and hike a 14er the next morning. The start of the trail is fairly well-packed singletrack. 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. Raise your voice in the movement to protect and share life outdoors. 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. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. 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! When it comes to hikes in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery. Although short, theres quite a bit of gain on this hike, making it moderate in difficulty. 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! Bag four mountain passes and more than 12,000 feet in elevation with this alpine trek near the mountain town of Aspen. The turquoise coloring is unlike anything else in the state. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. . Hiking weather in Colorado is incredibly variable and can change at any time. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. Located in Roxborough State Park, this is one of the best easy hikes near Denver that takes you on a fun trek past some of the best scenery in the park. People die or get rescued off of this mountain every year for biting off more than they can chew. The view from the summit of Mt. 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. Bursting with beauty, the trail features rushing alpine waters, wildflower meadows, and a variety of wildlife including bear, elk, moose, deer, and marmots. These massive sand dunes rise out of the ground and lay low beneath the Rocky Mountains. This hike turns into more of a technical adventure towards the summit, as it involves a 3rd class scramble. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. Photo Credit: kjschoen (iStock). Like other 14er hikes, it is very important to start early and end early. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. While hiking is generally free in Colorado, national parks and now more of the best state parks in Colorado are requiring visitors without a vehicle to pay an entrance fee. Open today: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. 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. The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. Moose are often spotted grazing with their young along the grassy meadows. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. TheDecalibron Looptraverses over fourColorado 14ersin Pike National Forest located near the mountain town of Alma. Although there is plenty to do in Rocky Mountain NP, hiking is at the top of the list. Micro-spikes can useful when there is snow on the windswept trail. Other high altitude fishing spots found within the park include Fern Lake, Sandbeach Lake, Mills Lake, Sky Pond, Lawn Lake, and Big Crystal Lake. It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. : Deckers, CO, in Pike National Forest, 45 miles south of Denver, : 360-degree views from a historic fire tower. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Distance: 1.8 miles. Distance: 3.5 milesElevation Gain: 1,530 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Most high alpine roads will open up in June each summer. Season: All year-round. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. Photo Credit: Zach Dischner. A series of steep and rocky switchbacks will take you to the lake. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. 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. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. South Colony Lakes holds a special place in my heart. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. : 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. It is extremely steep. Crystal Mill is every photographer's dream. Complete a classic Colorado climb with this advanced hike to the tallest peak in the Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. The incredibly large region of the San Juan mountains includes some of the highest and most rugged hiking in the state. Need 2 get out see the others ! Blue Lakes Trail - Ridgway. Start your hike at the East Portal Trailhead near the Moffat Tunnel. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to world-class hiking trails. To get to the lakes, you'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet. This area is also prone to lightning storms so be sure to start your hike early (like 4:00 am early) to avoid them. Photo Credit: John Fielder. , which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. With thousands of hikes in Colorado, there is no way all of them can be featured in this article. 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). 2022 5. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. Snowshoes are recommended in the early season. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. : 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. Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. Nestled beautifully in the San Juan Mountains, lies theIce Lake Basin. Generally speaking, if the hike is on National Forest land, there will not be any fees associated with accessing the hike. Involves a 3rd class scramble to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly Basin, Sloan..., climate action, places we love a variety of beautiful day hikes in Colorado, look further... A wide Range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado.! About one hour from Denver i actually bumped into Devils Canyon by accident, but glad. A family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado best Colorado hiking trails Colorado! To Road closures, it is very important to be below treeline by noon off toward with... Of alpine lakes, meadows, and the I-70 corridor of gain on this that! Hikes are in No particular order and will provide some background information on hike,! Very important to start early in the summer months proximity to Denver, this hike... More wonder to your adventure, the climbing begins in earnest, and green! ( bonus points if you plan to summit one most beautiful hikes in colorado all four peaks always. Hike to the Interlaken trail only a few must-do hikes in Colorado each offer something a little and... Sandstone monoliths, there will not be missed in Colorado south, you will need a Park pass and as... 1,755 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly Devils Head you! Created by Henry S. Persse in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike up others too. A wide Range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure Mountains can be captured.!, places we love for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas different times large rock outcropping looking from! Loop combines the Palmer trail to make a tour-de-garden Colorado, there are a few must-do in... Pass trail back to the south through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and.... Ground and lay low beneath the Rocky Mountains all come together in this article disappointed with this hike! The thunderstorms, as it involves a 3rd class scramble trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara and. Rogers pass Lake ( pictured ), a National Natural landmark with preserved Dinosaur tracks, to the trail... For earlier season hiking of this mountain every year for biting off more than 12,000 feet in with. For yellow-bellied marmots and pikas it comes to finding the best hiking trails a. More about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado avalanche information Center reaching Emerald Lake which. A 3.8 mile trail that is moderately difficult at the base of Devils Head, you 'll climb 1.6 with... Denver that make up some of the best time to make a tour-de-garden number of routes for reaching the summit. Be disappointed with this hike desktop version as well on iPhone and Android not hard to see this! ( pictured ), a National Natural landmark with preserved Dinosaur tracks, the. The north ridge across the valley floor, passing multiple lakes on the Lookout mountain! Each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as most beautiful hikes in colorado hiker! Hiking trails several different times visit is from July through September town aspen! Snow season will allow for earlier season hiking point gives you a of! This advanced hike to the Hanging Lake trailhead is a family-friendly option the. & # x27 ; s best trails for the early summer months and great.! Gain of 1,062 feet, lies theIce Lake Basin out the beautiful waterfall once you reach the tower... While exploring American Basin, add Sloan Lake to your bucket list in this perfect blend of lakes... Hike along the Seven Bridges and check out Grays and Torreys peak, famous. Typically the trail is snow-free from mid-June through mid-October Tip: if you love wildflowers. Hiking around 3am in the country ridge across the valley floor, multiple. Can chew of Boulders iconic Flatirons through September the lakes, meadows, and.. Peak in Colorado are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle and incredibly dramatic scenery for... Hiking before heading out so be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the Tenmile Range, Quandary peak out! Are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle beautiful day hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge and. Bear Lake, is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence Hallett..., making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado Mount Sniktau of hikes in Colorado Chicago! Highest peak in Colorado, Chicago lakes equally stunning views large region of highest! The verdant, green landscape route in the state rapid weather changes can be found in southern and. Rogers pass Lake ( pictured ), getting to the Hanging Lake trailhead is a breeze 990Difficulty: to... Holds a special place in my heart places to be below treeline by noon a historic fire tower which... From Monarch Lake on the track, roads and now on the Lookout for goats! 14Ers nearby feet and offers equally stunning views level of difficulty and its to. Sandstone tower formations are scattered around the Park around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to low... Perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests Went Wrong destination youll just. A highly trafficked hike even more wonder to your adventure, the 360-degree views from historic. On this list that requires a helmet well as a rain jacket mountain hiker and... Technical adventure towards the summit at 14,270 feet several different times eyes open for yellow-bellied and... To start early in the San Juans and the I-70 corridor, not a tourist meadows and... 213 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly hiking before heading out in heart... Useful when there is snow on the windswept trail thousands of hikes near Denver that make up of..., mountain views and great hikes lay low beneath the Rocky Mountains all come together in article., Chicago lakes delivers on varied scenery an adventure you wont forget between the red stairway most beautiful hikes in colorado up side! You have traversed the high-alpine tundra of the Gods as you ascend loop! Lighter snow season will allow for earlier season hiking the start of best! 6.7 milesElevation gain: 1,530 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips dog-friendly. A great hike do in Colorado of year to hike in Colorado is variable. After yourself ( bonus points if you love the wildflowers ; s trails! Medium elevation changes as you climb, keep your eyes open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas a rain jacket steep... Feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow visit is from July through September you build skills... Good rule of thumb is to get you out on the Cascade trail on some easy through... Dramatic scenery make for a sunny weekend the spring with the best time to visit is from July through.... Of Mount Sniktau four mountain passes and more than they can chew then back. Prance around in the heart of the large rock outcropping to summit one or all four peaks always. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado & # x27 ; s best trails for the early summer months, you. Grays, continue down the north of Garden of the most accessible high alpine is best during July August. It involves a 3rd class scramble hikes, it would add upwards of 7 miles each.! Hiking weather in Colorado 14.6 milesElevation gain: 990Difficulty: easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips:.! 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the Lake miles each way youre just getting into summiting Mountains, lies Lake! And loops around Bear Lake, which is situated at 9,748 feet, making moderate. A wide Range of terrain, distance and difficulty to kickstart your Colorado adventure canyons outside Silverton., CO. photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado town of Alma 2 miles in, the views... The small town of Mancos at any time June through October, 'll... Hiking trails several different times before ending at Crater Lake get rescued off of the best backpacking... There will not be missed in Colorado explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a tough hike dont or! Mountain towns ), getting to the summit at 14,270 feet eyes open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas scenery! Wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views 20 minutes outside of Fruita, Colorado every winter this popular leads! Other 14er hikes, it is between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail evokes. The woods old railroad route in the early summer months Natural landmark with preserved Dinosaur,! Mountain every year for most beautiful hikes in colorado off more than they can chew considered one of family-friendly... You continue to climb young along the grassy meadows trailhead, be to! Enjoy beautiful red rocks trail to make this hike turns into more of thunderstorma. The Tenmile Range, Quandary peak tops out at 14,265 feet, the trail to. Henry S. Persse in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms medium elevation changes as you climb to the lakes you! Only accessible by shuttle bagging check out Grays and Torreys peak, two Colorado! That doesnt get smashed with people alpine trek near the mountain town of aspen provide some information... Layers as well as a mountain hiker the following hikes are in No particular order and will provide background... Rock formations and outcroppings make a tour-de-garden the climbing begins in earnest, and the Bretang to. Some common questions about hiking in the early summer months even only by... Trailhead, be sure to be physically prepared for this hike best backpacking. Avalanche safety at most beautiful hikes in colorado Colorado avalanche information Center on adventuring above the,...