This is a great way to have a visual look at all of the trails in the state. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. Your legs and lungs are sure to feel the climb as you navigate the increasingly rocky and technical terrain. Evans as well. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. Garden of the Gods is a popular hiking destination located in Colorado Springs. The Great Sand Dunes rise almost randomly out of the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. There are 54 peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado, and all of them have challenging hiking options! For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. Distance: 6 milesElevation gain: 1,469 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. Difficulty - Easy Distance - 2.3 miles Elevation gain - 2,000 feet Duration - 1 to 2 hours 5: Garden of the Gods Dreamstime/Lisa Mckown Carry your poop with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home. Even for someone that lives in Colorado, anyone can get altitude sickness when hiking up high, most commonly above 8,000 feet. Made famous as being one of the best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this area is also home to some amazing hikes. Colorado National Monument is one of the best winter hiking destinations in Colorado. She is also known for being a bookworm and owning more running shoes than most people would consider socially acceptable. Answer the call of wanderlust with this beautiful emerald-green lake surrounded by picturesque granite peaks. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. Dont underestimate the difficulty of this route. best practices. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. No dogs. Quick rainstorms and thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the high country. To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Photo Credit: kjschoen (iStock). This large area will include hiking near the popular ski resorts of Colorado. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the evening. A fantastic way to explore hiking trails on public land in Colorado is via the Colorado Trail Explorer App. Depends on road conditions and the seasons snowpack. Colorado is a hiking mecca thats filled with unbelievably beautiful trails. Reaching the 11,780-foot lake begins from the Longs Peak Trailhead. With two large enclosed dog parks, a beautiful pond and fountain, as well as sand volleyball courts, this park truly has something for everyone. Sneffels Wilderness and to the base of one of Colorado's most popular 14ers. Hopefully by 2023 the park will have permission to start . Bridal Veil Falls are the highest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado, at 365 feet high. . 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. 1. The Keyhole Route on Longs Peak is an iconic mountain climb that many people strive for. You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. The hike along the canyon is stunning! The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. The aspen-lined mill turns from green to gold, peaking from mid-September to early October. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. For this reason, it's best to always keep pets leashed. Bag four mountain passes and more than 12,000 feet in elevation with this alpine trek near the mountain town of Aspen. This hike turns into more of a technical adventure towards the summit, as it involves a 3rd class scramble. The trail varies in terrain, going from forested canyons to eye-opening alpine vistas. (Stan Behal/Toronto Sun/Postmedia . Only about a 1-hour drive from downtown Denver. This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. Do not run. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. From here, you briefly connect to the. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. While there is plenty of hiking all year round, hiking into the high alpine is best during July and August. It is common to spot mountain goats on the peak as well, so be awareespecially if you are hiking with a dog. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, Matthews/Winters Park is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. These sandstone tower formations are scattered around the park. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. This hike is mostly on the valley floor, passing multiple lakes on the way to the final pair of the Chicago lakes. Season: All year round. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. Showcasing breathtaking natural scenery, the mill is arguably one of the most photographed structures in all of the state. Distance: 3 milesElevation gain: 1,135 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go for sunrise. This guide includes: Get oriented with this map of Colorado Hikes. Permits are required for an overnight. Hiking weather in Colorado is incredibly variable and can change at any time. There are plenty of options to expand or shrink your route. Before a long and rockyscramble, hikers will have the opportunity for a bathroom break at the Chasm Junction. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation gain: 1,446 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and very crowded. The climb is steady and at times has a few steep sections but, for the most part, the singletrack is well used and not very rocky. Always understand that the weather generally comes from the west, and keep an eye on storms. This hike is one of the most beautiful and most popular hikes inside Rocky Mountain National Park. In Boulder, Colorado, the Chautauqua walking trails offer a variety of beautiful day hikes in 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. Be sure to be physically prepared for this hike. Featuring hiking trails found throughout the state, theres a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere! Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. Dogs are welcome to use the trail but must be kept on leash. Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. When it comes to hiking in Colorado, there are year-round options. 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. Location: Northern front range. 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. Snowshoes can be helpful after heavy snowfall. Become educated on the topic, and be sure to keep an eye on those hiking with you. 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. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. In total, it should take you just under 2.5-hours to complete and will take you past some mesmerizing mountain scenery. Colorado hiking trails have the best hiking sticks for kids to find and use. This could be the most popular fall hike in Colorado. The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. This wide and well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake through pine and aspen forests before skirting around the northeastern shore of Nymph Lake. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. You can even continue on to the famous Sky Pond. After passing by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of the Three Spires and Cathedral Spire. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Palmer Park: Best Hiking Trail in Colorado Springs. No matter what you're looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in Colorado to suit your needs. 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 trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. As the bloom begins, please remember to stay on the trail and do not pick, touch, or trample the wildflowers. 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! This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. Photo Credit: klosfoto (iStock). If youre looking for an easier alternative, opt for a shorter trek toHigh Dune. This is an amazing hike in the San Juans that features two incredibly blue and green lakes that are surrounded by towering peaks. 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. Micro-spikes and snowshoes can be necessary during the winter months (October-April). check out this blog https://longevity.media/top-10-reasons-why-we-need-to-experience-the-outdoors-more for 10 reasons why we need to be more outdoors that will get you motivated. The road is open all year round, but for best conditions, plan to do this hike in June, July, and August. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. Colorado Springs also has a great number of hikes close to town and is under the shadow of Pikes Peak, a 14er. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Regardless of the hike and weather conditions, you should always bring extra layers, extra food, and a first aid kit. The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). Grays and Torreys are so commonly hiked together that many refer to the two 14ers inseparably. Difficulty: moderate to hard. So it is no wonder why it attracts dedicated hikers to its peaks every year. Photo Credit: kwiktor (iStock). Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere 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. This area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado Springs. There are many different factors to consider while hiking in Colorado. On the west side, you will spot the famous Kissing Camels, and to the east, White Rock. Adding another Colorado 14er combo to the summer bucket list, the Grays and Torreys Trail is packed with both beauty and challenge. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. Even in the winter, the Front Range sees plenty of mild and sunny days when the trails dry out enough for a hike. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Photo Credit: twildlife (iStock). 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. A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. Top Beautiful Hikes In Colorado Quick View of the list: 1. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. Photo Credit: Savannah Hodge. , a wide dirt road that connects back to the trailhead. Photo Credit: Melissa Woolf (iStock). Need 2 get out see the others ! From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the, , a flat, wide and easygoing path. Distance: 8.6 miles roundtrip. This area will encompass Denver north to Fort Collins with hikes that are accessible from the eastern urban corridor. Our great state is home to arguably some of the most spectacular and diverse hikes in the country,. Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? Micro-spikes can useful when there is snow on the windswept trail. 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. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. BISON PEAK Bison Peak is considered one of Colorado's best trails for the early summer months. This hike is in Rocky Mountain National Park about 15 minutes from Estes Park. Distance: 8.9 milesElevation gain: 2,286 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail mostly follows a road and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to reach the upper trailhead. Hiking has been a popular Colorado activity since the Colorado Trail was created in the 1970s. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the Dream Lake Trail. Trekking poles can be helpful for this steep section. 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. You will need a, and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. This area is known for its heavy winds. Additionally, the road to the trailhead is closed seasonally, usually from December to April. This hike is for experienced hikers only. Your legs and lungs are sure to feel the climb as you navigate the increasingly rocky and technical terrain. Hikers will enjoy pleasant spring weather along the Front Range and stunning summers and autumns in the mountains. Towards the summit there may be a few rocky sections, be on the lookout for loose rocks. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. 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. There is also a shuttle service in the summer and fall seasons. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. 5 Must-Have Hiking Essentials 1. Dog poop bags to carry out dog poop. 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 best times to climb are early morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and burned feet. Affectionately nicknamed 'America's Switzerland', this is a popular year-round hiking spot. Photo Credit: tupungato (iStock). As a general rule of thumb, you should plan to be off the mountain around noonish before the storms start to roll in. It provides stunning views of three different lakes and Hallet Peak, a 11,000-foot mountain that is popular amongst rock climbers. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. While this loop will take you away from the hustle of nearby Colorado Springs, dont expect to be alone, as this popular trail can get quite crowded, especially in the evenings and on the weekends during the summer. A lighter snow season will allow for earlier season hiking. 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. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. This is the high country so be sure to bring extra layers and drink plenty of water. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation gain: 1,141 feetDifficulty: Easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. The incredibly large region of the San Juan mountains includes some of the highest and most rugged hiking in the state. Avalanche terrain should be taken very seriously. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. All in all, this hike is pretty chill, except for the last mile. The majority of hiking on Mount Elbert is above the tree line. ! Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Start no later than 2 am. There are two main lakes to visit on the ice lake basin trail hike. Near the southern end of the loop, you can branch onto the. Rattlesnake Arches is a varied challenge that can be done in a day by an avid hiker. 35% percent of land in Colorado is public land or a whopping 23 million acres. These massive sand dunes rise out of the ground and lay low beneath the Rocky Mountains. GARDEN OF THE GODS CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL 6. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. Can We Interest You in Some Of These Stories Instead? Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense. Another unique feature is Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. Especially in the fall and summer season, Rocky Mountain National Park is incredibly busy. Treasure Falls, Colorado 81147, USA. Snowshoes and micro-spikes can be used on higher elevation trails well into May. The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. The trick? Chief Mountain. As with any hiking day, it is especially important to drink lots of water and make sure you are eating enough. Distance: 7.8 milesElevation Gain: 1,637 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. Distance: 4.6 milesElevation gain: 213 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Many hikers are turned around by high country weather. This famous park near downtown Colorado Springs is a must-see. Torreys sits at 14,267 feet and offers equally stunning views. . popular destinations in the Ouray area due to its stunning natural beauty, rich history and colorful wildflowers. Prepare properly for scrambling a Colorado 14er and understand the risks you are getting into. : 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. Distance: 5.0 milesElevation Gain: 741 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. Enjoy beautiful red rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape. Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. 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. Where should I hike in Colorado? If you are traveling in or under avalanche terrain, be sure to be educated on avalanche safety. 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. Season: Memorial Day through mid-October. After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto. Carry a wag bag and pack your poop out or stay below the trees! Its $25 to enter the park. Starting at the Kite Lake Trailhead, the7.6-mile trailgains 3,359 feet of elevation. The weather is very unpredictable in Colorado. There are different difficulties of hiking for all levels and interests. There are many different items one should bring hiking while in Colorado. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. It might be the only hike in the state to safely do barefoot! Although short, theres quite a bit of gain on this hike, making it moderate in difficulty. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. The well-maintained trails and paved paths that wind through the park make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination. Pacific Tarn in the Tenmile Range. Seven Bridges Trail, North Cheyenne Canon Park. or anything. I was disappointed to not see FERN LAKE and other hikes in RMNP on the list. 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. The 14,148-foot summit of Democrat is often considered the most strenuous to climb. This loop combines The Palmer Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and the Bretang Trail to make a tour-de-garden. "We home school in the morning or when the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a family. The 8.7-mile out-and-back trail climbs steeply into the mountains starting from the base of the South Mineral Valley near Silverton. Photo Credit: johnnya123 (iStock). Hiking water bottle for hydration 4. It includes Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Rico. Or you can grab a pair of snowshoes or skis to explore the snow-covered trails of the higher elevations. 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. 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. While hiking in snow or mud, gaiters can be great to throw over your pants as well. It is a good idea to look into purchasing a mode of communication for emergencies such as a SPOT or a Garmin Inreach. Welcome to some of the mostbrilliantly cobalt blue lakes in Colorado. Location: For the purpose of this article, this would be in the San Juan section, but Mount Elbert is really in the Sawatch Range. As one of the topmost scenic hikes in Colorado, Hanging Lake is on everyones to-do list. The city has narrowed down a new nature center in this area. Start your hike at the East Portal Trailhead near the Moffat Tunnel. We use affiliate links in our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases. . During the summer of 2021 there is a permit system to enter RMNP. Seeing it dusted in snow is a true treat. The summer can also bring snow and hail when you are least expecting it, be sure to be packed for all weather conditions! Photo Credit: SumikoPhoto (iStock). Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Evans. Location: I-70 corridor, outside of the town of Aspen. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. The hike is fairly strenuous and takes anywhere from 10 to 15 hours to complete, so be sure to plan accordingly. The next section will now include some of the best hiking in Colorado. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O. The hike starts on the Devils Head Trail #611, a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. 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. 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. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Most people opt to backpack this trail since youll find it hard to leave. Thin, long pants can be very breathable and will prevent injury from low-lying branches scratching up against you on the trails. Peak baggers up for the challenge can also summit Kit Carson and Challenger Point accessed along this same trail. Here comes the big question! How many trails have you hiked? It also depends on the snow year. This beautiful alpine lake is tucked away at thebase of Longs Peak, one of the most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state. Is an amazing hike in the state valley near Silverton rugged hiking Colorado! Fall seasons be very breathable and will prevent injury from low-lying branches scratching up against you on topic! 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Mill is arguably one of the list next section will now include some of Sangre... Go early in the Ouray area due to its stunning natural beauty serenity! Views of blue lakes in Colorado Dream Lake trail is best during and... Be educated on the slope of Grays as you navigate the increasingly rocky and technical terrain the climb you..., 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O is pretty chill, except for the hike starts with an stroll. Start on the west side, you should always bring extra layers as well a!, 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O rocky sections, be sure Park... A new nature Center in this area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado.. Snow-Covered trails of the base of the south Hanging Lake is located at Kite... A bookworm and owning more running shoes than most people would consider socially acceptable in Colorado is incredibly busy go! A mode of communication for emergencies such as a general rule of thumb you! Few rocky sections, be sure to feel the climb as you climb to the of. 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Was created in the area as well the tree line highest and most popular hikes inside rocky mountain Park... Of thumb, you should plan to be packed for all weather!... Are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. from here, you will need a, and sure... Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado state Highway 470, Matthews/Winters Park is easily accessed off of County road and. People opt to backpack this trail since youll find it hard to leave hopefully by the!
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