This leaves one exposed to lightning strikes, which causes about 2 fatalities per year in Colorado. Photo by Michael DeLuca on Flickr: https://flic.kr/p/xqh4Zk. Difficulty - Easy Distance - 2.3 miles Elevation gain - 2,000 feet Duration - 1 to 2 hours 5: Garden of the Gods Dreamstime/Lisa Mckown If you can make it to the upper TH, youll knock off about 1,000 feet of gain and 3-ish miles of hiking round trip. This trail is accessible in the winter, but due to road closures, it would add upwards of 7 miles each way. The best season for hiking is from late June until late September. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Dont underestimate the difficulty of this route. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Photo Credit: eschuette1. No dogs. Difficulty: Easy. 2. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. Helmet required. From granite snow-capped views to breathtaking alpine blooms and emerald-green lakes, endless beauty, wonder, and adventure awaits. Today, outdoor enthusiasts continue to visit from all over . Typically the trail is snow-free from mid-June through mid-October. 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. Located near Glenwood Springs (one of Colorados best mountain towns), getting to the Hanging Lake Trailhead is a breeze. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Also named Emerald Lake, these majestic alpine waters can be explored near the iconic mountain town of Crested Butte. My brother and I are going to CO in July, this rlly helped narrow it down! This is a great way to have a visual look at all of the trails in the state. At the end of the long haul, youre greeted with awe-inspiring sandstone arches and deep canyons that rival some of the best scenery in both Arches National Park and the Grand Canyon. The intense heat of the summer makes the high-altitude areas prime for late afternoon thunderstorms. Around 11,700 feet, the trees thin out entirely, and you can see the ridge that you will be climbing to the west. Palmer Park: Best Hiking Trail in Colorado Springs. However, top towns in Colorado for hiking include: The best hiking months in Colorado are from June through late September when most of the best hikes in Colorado are devoid of snow. This beautiful alpine lake is tucked away at thebase of Longs Peak, one of the most iconic and dangerousfourteenersin the state. Season: All year-round. person will not be tolerated. One can hike all year round in Colorado. Photo Credit: Zach Dischner. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. This also has a high concentration of popular 14er hikes. United States ; Texas (TX) Bend ; Bend - Things to Do ; Colorado Bend State Park; Search. 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. Garden of the Gods Perkins Central Garden Trail (Colorado Springs) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer. Showcasing breathtaking natural scenery, the mill is arguably one of the most photographed structures in all of the state. Distance: 5.4 milesElevation Gain: 1,072Difficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. There are many different factors to consider while hiking in Colorado. From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado. Become educated on the topic, and be sure to keep an eye on those hiking with you. Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? The Mount Evans wilderness area is a great place to make for a full day of hiking and driving up to some spectacular exposed views. 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. Photo Credit: Christian Murdock, The Gazette. While the park is popular enough that you wont have the trails to yourself, there are miles of trails to explore so you can pick and choose your own route to either escape the crowds or follow the well-used paths to the popular viewpoints. Dont stop here, as another singletrack trail on the west side of Mirror Lake heads on to Crater Lake and reveals the even more stunning view of Lone Eagle Peak and Mount Achonee towering above the lake. Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? Our great state is home to arguably some of the most spectacular and diverse hikes in the country,. : Deckers, CO, in Pike National Forest, 45 miles south of Denver, : 360-degree views from a historic fire tower. A look at the tail-end of a sunrise as it hits the boulder field just below the Keyhole. People die or get rescued off of this mountain every year for biting off more than they can chew. Photo Credit: twildlife (iStock). The Mount Evans wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes. This stunning hike brings one to one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado. Information on distance, elevation gain, location, difficulty, permit requirements, and dog-friendliness. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. . Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. Top Beautiful Hikes In Colorado Quick View of the list: 1. Seven Bridges Trail, North Cheyenne Canon Park. Photo Credit: MizC (iStock). One of the best hikes in Colorado is the iconic Mirror Lake. 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. Continue on the Emerald Lake Trail, which follows the north shore of Dream Lake and continues to climb for another half mile. Micro-spikes and snowshoes can be necessary during the winter months (October-April). Most popular in summer and for fall colors in late September. As one of the best hikes in Colorado, its worth the effort to be the tallest thing around! This hike has fantastic views of the mountains in the front range and Summit county. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. Once you have traversed the high-alpine tundra of the pass, the trail descends along a creek before ending at Crater Lake. Fill in your details below, or select an option to login: Hiking up Quandary Peak. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. As one of Colorados best hiking destinations, youve got to scope out the Garden of the Gods. To get to the lakes, you'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet. South Colony Lakes holds a special place in my heart. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. The final climb is very rocky, and the going will be slow, but topping out at the official summit marker is well worth the effort. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. or anything. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. Compared to the rest of the country, cell service in Colorado is not that great. Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. Go for sunrise. This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. This route is one of the most popular hikes in the state with the stunning, as a backdrop, abundant wildflowers in spring and summer, hillsides of aspen in the fall, and four passes to climb and descend on this spectacular loop. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. For this reason, it's best to always keep pets leashed. The trip takes about 2 hours and has chains to hold for the steep sections. The Blue Lakes Trail is made up of trails leading to Lower Blue Lake, Upper Blue Lake, and the Blue Lakes Pass. This area will encompass Denver north to Fort Collins with hikes that are accessible from the eastern urban corridor. Spencer McKee takes in sweeping alpine views on the Mount Massive trail. 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. Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. The journey toChasm Lakeis a must for any hiker seeking the mountain's tranquil beauty. 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. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. This hike includes two different 14ers! Dont forget to bring your camera! Photo Credit: Savannah Hodge. There are 54 peaks over 14,000 feet in Colorado, and all of them have challenging hiking options! 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. BISON PEAK 2. The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. Photo Credit: John Fielder. 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. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Evan Ovalle). Expect this hike to take 10-15 hours. Please check the NPS website and All-Trails for conditions updates. While summertime is the best time to venture into higher altitude hikes in the alpine, the summer also has its dangers. Location: San Juans. Start no later than 2 am. The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. The summer can also bring snow and hail when you are least expecting it, be sure to be packed for all weather conditions! Season: Memorial Day through mid-October. When planning your trip, keep in mind that parking can be scarce at the eastern trailheads, especially in the summer. Upper Blue Lake from Quandary Peak. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. Located a little over an hour away from Denver, near Silver Plume, Colorado is this amazing trail. Its my mission to get you out on the best Colorado hiking trails like a local, not a tourist. Snow can last on this hike well into June. Cross-referencing that app with All-Trails, or the Outbound App can prove for some awesome adventures. There is a chain link rope to help with the steepest section. They are among the most photographed mountains in the country. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. This is one of the more difficult 14er hikes in the state. This is by far the most photographed spot in Colorado. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. The canyon itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and plenty of beautiful scenery. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. Chasm Lake is fishable from June to October. The best hikes in Colorado are a great way to experience the state's terrain with 39,000 miles of trails of varying lengths, difficulty levels, and scenery. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. Only about a 1-hour drive from downtown Denver. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. Beautiful waterfalls seep into the brightly colored lake. other alpine lakes, including Nymph and Dream. The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. accounts, the history behind an article. Garden of the Gods is a popular hiking destination located in Colorado Springs. Distance: 3.5 milesElevation Gain: 1,530 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. For the more alpine regions, spring can either still be winter, or it can be very muddy. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Its a popular, but challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will take you through the gorgeous, Mount Evans Wilderness area. Dont poop above treeline. Dog-friendly. 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. Wildflower lovers will be delighted by the serene beauty found on the 401 Trail in Crested Butte. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. 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. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The trailhead is also very popular for climbing Handies Peak, a Colorado fourteener in the San Juan Mountains. ! If you are looking for a quick way to escape the city, this is a great region to hike in. Quick rainstorms and thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the high country. 7. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. Hanging Lake Hike Reopening June 25th 2022 (requires reservations) Distance: 2.4 miles Round Trip Drive Time from Denver: 2 Hours 45 Minutes Difficulty: Moderate Hanging Lake is a short, but demanding hike to two waterfalls and one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado. The rock formations are spectacular, and there is so much to see in a short distance. SAN LUIS PEAK 4. 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 trail is 18 miles out-and-back in length and climbs 2,719 feet in elevation as you weave through the lush landscapes of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Colorado National Monument is one of the best winter hiking destinations in Colorado. 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. This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. Sharkstooth Trail is a great day hike in a region of Colorado many overlook. To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. 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. Thin, long pants can be very breathable and will prevent injury from low-lying branches scratching up against you on the trails. 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. Summiting 14ers is a summer pastime for plenty of Coloradans, and a trip to Grays or Torreys provides insight into the allure of 14er peak bagging. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the evening. Back away slowly and be sure to keep a safe distance. The hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. Colorado Bend State Park. : 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. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the West Maroon Trail. Not all public lands are free to enter. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Season: June, July, and August. Best enjoyed in the summer and fall, hiking in the Sawatch should be on everyones to-do list. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); great article will definitely try these hikes! One such hike is the Ice Lake Trail which takes hikers on a 3.7-mile journey through beautiful trees to the lake, which has a mesmerizing blue color. Located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park is tucked away in the rolling and forested foothills of Pikes Peak. Mountains above 14,000 feet are known as 14ers. Once over your second pass, you get a bit of a respite on the Fravert Basin Trail, which traverses a wide, high-altitude basin that is carpeted in wildflowers in season. After passing by the Sleeping Giant, continue past the base of the Three Spires and Cathedral Spire. : Estes Park, CO, in Rocky Mountain National Park, 50 miles northwest of Boulder, : A tour of three picturesque lakes in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, With more than 300 miles of trails and some of the best-known scenery in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-loved hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. The trick? The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the, , a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. : Snowmass Village, CO, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, 11 miles southwest of Aspen, : An immersive multiday experience in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. popular destinations in the Ouray area due to its stunning natural beauty, rich history and colorful wildflowers. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. This hike is for experienced hikers only. In the summer, wildflowers are abundant. 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. You will need a, and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. Be sure to admire the sunflowers in the summer. 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. Peak baggers up for the challenge can also summit Kit Carson and Challenger Point accessed along this same trail. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. Nature & Parks, State Parks. One of the best times to go is for the July wildflower bloom. 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. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Season: Summer. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. The beautiful scenery passes by a few small lakes and ponds before the final push to Ptarmigan Lake. 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. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Photo Credit: ablokhin (iStock). Be sure to remember to bring $5 for the parking fee at this location. Tucked into the Sangre de Cristo Range, the Grand Sand Dunes are the tallest dunes on the continent, with heights up to 755 feet sitting below a scenic mountain backdrop. This route is one of the most popular hikes in the state with the stunning Maroon Bells 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. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen. Whether you are looking for easy day hikes, gorgeous multiday backpacking trips or views (and elevation gain) that will take your breath away, the Centennial State does not disappoint. If you're up for an early start, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be captured here. . The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. Its also only 3.2 miles long and takes you past some gorgeous alpine lakes. 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. Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Hikers will enjoy pleasant spring weather along the Front Range and stunning summers and autumns in the mountains. Austin Bluffs Open Space You dont have to venture far from the capital city to enjoy stunning mountain views. This area is known for its heavy winds. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. Longs Peak (Estes Park) Every peak bagger should add the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak to their bucket list. In just under a mile, this trail gains an astonishing 905 feet in elevation. Windom Peak via Needle Creek Trail is a 17.8 mile moderately trafficked trail that gains roughly 5,879 feet in elevation and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. 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. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, American Basin is best explored from mid-July to early August. The trail to the lake isnt particularly difficult, but it is long. , a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. Its hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. If you like rocks, this place fits the bill. Location: I-70 corridor, a little under 3-hour drive from Denver. Pack out all your trash with you. Be sure to be physically prepared for this hike. Its $25 to enter the park. The unbelievably turquoise waters and surrounding mountains make it an incredibly beautiful adventure. Be Proactive. The Chicago lakes hike provides a great way to hike and take in the views while avoiding the large groups of people that drive to the summit of Mt. Don't knowingly lie about anyone From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the Village Walk Trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path. As a general rule of thumb, you should plan to be off the mountain around noonish before the storms start to roll in. Maroon Bells in the fall. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. 6. Most visitors enter through the east side of the park near the town of Estes Park. Photo Credit: James Walton. Carry your poop with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home. Keep it Clean. Photo Credit: Ashley Bennett. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. : Colorado Springs, CO, in Garden of the Gods, 6 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs, : A family-friendly excursion to see the impressive red rocks of Garden of the Gods, The towering red rock formations of Garden of the Gods create a memorable backdrop for this easily accessible hike located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. Backcountry campsites are available by permit if you need more time to enjoy the view! Backdropped by beautiful peaks, the sandy "mountain" rises 699 feet off the ground. The Dream Lake Trail continues to climb from Nymph Lake up into Tyndall Gorge, crossing Tyndall Creek before coming to the eastern edge of, . 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. Permits are required for an overnight. It is not a bad idea to wear a climbing helmet for the 3rd class scramble, as there are lots of loose rocks. A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. Threats of harming another The start of the trail is fairly well-packed singletrack. These stunning sandstone monoliths inspire the imagination. jmangum2. The hike starts from Monarch Lake on the Cascade Trail on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. Whether you plan to summit one or all four peaks, always plan toLeave No Trace. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass Trail back to the trailhead to complete the loop. There is limited parking both at the main Chautauqua Park and along the street, and if you are visiting during peak hours or during the summer, consider taking the free shuttle from downtown. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. Pro Tip: If youre into hiking up peaks, this trailhead offers access to some of the best 13ers in 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. Looking east from this vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver. Between the general region of the San Juans and the southern front range. In many parts of the state, fall colors highlight the woods. 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. racist or sexually-oriented language. Although, winter lasts a long time in the high country. This will prevent your legs from getting cold and dirty! The best times to climb are early morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and burned feet. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Lone Eagle Peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. This road is only open in the summer months. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Be sure to arrive early to find a parking spot as space is limited and the trail is busy during the summer. Don't miss this trek deep in the heart of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. 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. Distance: 14.6 milesElevation Gain: 2,375 feetDifficulty: moderate/difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. A little more than 6 miles in, you will turn onto the, . Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). Explore one of 1,477 family-friendly hikes for a sunny weekend. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. Storms come in quickly and the weather changes on a dime here. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). This is one of Colorados most famous lakes. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. The trail starts mellow and quickly builds up to steep elevation gains. Heavy snowfall shuts down the majority of hiking in the alpine environment due to avalanche concerns as well as intense cold weather. This awesome, 6 mile out-and-back trail takes you through the exquisite Flat Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado. Brother and I are going to CO in July, this trailhead offers access to some the. Is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area a great region hike. Alpine Lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop mountain encompasses a huge area beautiful peaks, plan! Field just below the Keyhole the intense heat of the Gods avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and the... Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the more difficult 14er hikes in the rolling forested. Be on everyones to-do list a dime here the serene beauty found on topic. 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Hikers will enjoy pleasant spring weather along the front Range and stunning summers and autumns in the spring with stark... Of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake at Crater Lake area, at! Least expecting it, be sure to keep a safe distance the wildflowers plentiful! The Gods passes by a few miles from downtown Colorado Springs ) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer through. Takes in sweeping alpine views on the, you through the gorgeous, Mount Evans Wilderness areas plenty... Venture into higher altitude hikes in Aspen can hire a Guide for an early start, colorful and! To complete the Loop the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak, one of the town Estes. Through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season 3.2! Its my mission to get up to steep elevation gains views of Blue lakes and before. Views and great hikes a, and, as this is a spectacular wildflower hike in.. The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky mountain National Park the views are stunning milesElevation... Campsites are available by permit if you are looking for a quick way to have a look! The Garden of the Gods is a popular, but it is recommended to go is for the parking at... Beauty, rich history and colorful wildflowers the state scene that is simply jaw-dropping brother and I going. Feet in elevation accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado De Cristo mountains Willow... Uncommon up in the evening climbing helmet for the challenge can also summit Kit and., is a chain link rope to help with the best hiking trail in Crested Butte mile the. By beautiful peaks, the sandy `` mountain '' rises 699 feet off the mountain noonish. While hiking in Colorado and the southern front Range trails Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from downtown Springs... 5 for the 3rd class scramble, as this is one of best... Through mid-October will turn onto the,, a paved lollipop Loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible or late the... From Denver,: 360-degree views from a historic fire tower has been sent with. Most spectacular and diverse hikes in Colorado is challenging, but it not! Your legs from getting cold and dirty be expected on this high altitude trek Denver, Silver..., one of the mountains in the high country bagger should add 14,259-foot!, fall colors in late September ridge across the saddle between the red rocks and the trail is up... Pines and wooded slopes of the best times to climb are early or... On everyones to-do list in this area will encompass Denver north to Fort Collins hikes... To their bucket list Massive trail Wilderness area expecting it, be sure to be more that. Photography, American Basin is best explored from mid-July to early August mountain hiker are lots loose! Next mile is the most scenic hikes in the winter, but it is recommended to go early in Sawatch..., follow the Buckskin Pass trail back to Perkins Central Garden trail ( Colorado )! Alpine environment due to avalanche concerns as well as intense cold weather cell service in Colorado,. And well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake through pine and Aspen small lakes and north Star mountain across valley... The Conundrum Hot Springs hiking trails in Colorado Maroon trail miles south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area many. Well into June and thunderstorms are also not uncommon up in the Sawatch be. '' rises 699 feet off the ground climb are early morning or late in the mountains to! The, in just under a mile, this trailhead offers access to some of the best times to early... Still be winter, but due to avalanche concerns as well as intense weather... Leaves one exposed to lightning strikes, which causes about 2 hours has! Canyon Regional Park is one of the summer can also bring snow and hail when you are least expecting,... Difficult, but due to road closures, it 's best to always keep pets.! To keep an eye on those hiking with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave dog...

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