most beautiful hikes in colorado

If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. Bridal Veil Falls are the highest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado, at 365 feet high. Most high alpine roads will open up in June each summer. Distance: 6.7 milesElevation Gain: 1,200 feetDifficulty: easy/moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly, Related: The Beginners Guide to Hiking Safely. 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. GREAT Trail's,been on some of them. Photo: Jeff Richards. You will need a, and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. If you time it right, you can even be at the lake to view the first snowfall on the Maroon bells, with the fall colors still bright down below. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. If you are looking for the quintessential Indian Peaks hike, the out-and-back to Crater Lake from Monarch Lake offers a great mix of scenery and terrain, as well as a stunning destination. Known for its striking emerald green waters, the lake often glows under the mountain sun. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). Be sure to check road conditions. Threats of harming another Season: Summer. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. 19. It is very crowded, but also a very well maintained park. This is another great 14er hike to do in the I-70 area. Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. Expect this hiking area to be very busy. Situated at 11,200 feet, the famed hot springs can be reached via the Conundrum Creek Trail. I was disappointed to not see FERN LAKE and other hikes in RMNP on the list. Photo Credit: Erik Sommerfeld; American Institute of Architects. Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Distance: 14 milesElevation gain: 2,444 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Some scrambling required, but nothing too strenuous. Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the, , a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Generally speaking, the high country is referred to as the area at 9,000 feet and above. Known as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, Boulder could keep you occupied for weeks with its multitude of trails in close vicinity to downtown. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. 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. Parts of the trailhead may also be inaccessible during these months. Between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes. This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Distance: 6.7 milesElevation gain: 764 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Back away slowly and be sure to keep a safe distance. There are several large waterfalls along the way including the trails namesake, Cascade Falls, a particularly scenic multitiered waterfall that you will get an up-close look at as the trail switchbacks from the base of the falls to the top. Backdropped by beautiful peaks, the sandy "mountain" rises 699 feet off the ground. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Colorado is known for its abundant sunny weather, mountain views and nearly year-round hiking opportunities. This is a great way to have a visual look at all of the trails in the state. Go for sunrise. Be prepared to not have cell service while you hike. Photo Credit: Melissa Woolf (iStock). , a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. While opting for the alpine wonder is suitable for a wider range of hiking skill levels, Colorado 14er climbing is only recommend for the most experienced hikers. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. The canyon itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and plenty of beautiful scenery. 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. Winter brings solitude through deep snow in the woods. This moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch. Photo Credit: James Walton. Just hike the path of least resistance! Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Colorado, and for good reason. Distance: 4.6 milesElevation gain: 213 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. According to the National Park Service, Star Dune hikers should plan for a five-hour round trip. Youll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s. The Blue Lakes Trail is made up of trails leading to Lower Blue Lake, Upper Blue Lake, and the Blue Lakes Pass. You'll find this 3.2-mile out-and-back adventure hidden right off of Monarch Pass. As I was researching lodging near Estes Park, CO, for our 6th trip to hike Rocky Mountain National Park, I came across this list. Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. Follow the signs to Rogers Pass Lake (pictured), a destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. (Photos Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Nick Wilder). 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. There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. This hike includes two different 14ers! Theres a saying in Colorado that goes west slope best slope. This area of the state isnt as easy to access compared to other hiking areas closer to Denver. Crystal Mill is every photographer's dream. Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery. This famous park near downtown Colorado Springs is a must-see. Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. 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. For more information please visit the RNMP website. Around 2 miles in, the climbing begins in earnest, and the trail changes to a rock-filled talus slope. Location: San Juans, near the town of Telluride. Photo Credit: Bryan Hagan, OutThere Colorado. As the trailhead is located around 11,000 feet in elevation, the tree coverage is pretty sparse right from the beginning. The journey toChasm Lakeis a must for any hiker seeking the mountain's tranquil beauty. This ultimate guide to the best hikes in Colorado gives you an array of local hiking recommendations for all abilities. Clocking in over 27 miles, the Four Pass Loop climbs over four beautiful mountain passes. Nestled in the Indian Peaks Wilderness lies the wow-worthy granite spectacle. Bag four mountain passes and more than 12,000 feet in elevation with this alpine trek near the mountain town of Aspen. Also named Emerald Lake, these majestic alpine waters can be explored near the iconic mountain town of Crested Butte. The standard route features a 14-mile class two climb up the eastern slopes. The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. Photo Credit: marekuliasz (iStock). The trail to the lake isnt particularly difficult, but it is long. Buckskin Pass Trail takes you up and over Buckskin Pass with amazing views in all directions before descending to the scenic Snowmass Lake. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. Carry your poop with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home. Located in the middle of the town and surrounded by neighborhoods and city sprawl, this magical wilderness is a very popular city park in Colorado Springs. The rock formations are spectacular, and there is so much to see in a short distance. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism From Bluebell Road, turn onto the Royal Arch Trail. So it is no wonder why it attracts dedicated hikers to its peaks every year. 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. For killer views of eastern Colorado, Pikes Peak, and the Rocky Mountains check out Devils Head Lookout. best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, The only 4-day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Youll Ever Need. See my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info. (Mercury must be in retrograde.) 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. Winding through spectacular wildflower meadows, scenic beauty awaits hikers and backpackers. Headed back east, Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most unexpectedly beautiful places in Colorado. Local Tip: This trail has been undergoing restoration work and will re-open on June 25th, 2022. The Mount Evans wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes. Especially in the fall and summer season, Rocky Mountain National Park is incredibly busy. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. 20 Most Beautiful Hikes in Colorado. This is one of the best fall hikes in Colorado that doesnt get smashed with people. This stunning hike brings one to one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Check out the famous Gem Lake for stunning views of strange rock pinnacles and mountain vistas. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. On a calm, clear day the mountains reflections in the lake makes for a picture-perfect setting. 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. Be sure to have checked the forecast multiple times, and do always bring extra layers as well as a rain jacket. 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. 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. Waste does not break down this high up. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. If hiking the loop counterclockwise, start on the, , which is best accessed from the Section 16 Trailhead on Gold Camp Road. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. BISON PEAK Bison Peak is considered one of Colorado's best trails for the early summer months. Local Tip: If you love peak bagging check out Grays and Torreys Peak, two famous Colorado 14ers nearby. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. No dogs. Typically the trail is snow-free from mid-June through mid-October. We'd love to hear eyewitness Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock). While there is plenty of hiking all year round, hiking into the high alpine is best during July and August. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. Come spring, the trail explodes in color. Dogs are welcome to use the trail but must be kept on leash. One can encounter snow on Colorado hiking trails all year round. Seeing it dusted in snow is a true treat. Most people opt to backpack this trail since youll find it hard to leave. This is by far the most photographed spot in Colorado. Garden of the Gods Perkins Central Garden Trail (Colorado Springs) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. 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. If so then why not try this stellar out and back hike? Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. Season: Summer; June, July, and August. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. The road is open all year round, but for best conditions, plan to do this hike in June, July, and August. This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. This trail is accessible in the winter, but due to road closures, it would add upwards of 7 miles each way. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. Popular hiking trails include the Garden of the Gods Loop, Rocks and Vistas Garden of the Gods, Susan G. Bretag and Palmer Loop, and Siamese Twins Loop. Be sure to be physically prepared for this hike. Local Tip: If youre into gentle rock climbs, then check out the Longs Peak Cable Route. Thats why they call it breckenwind! Some notable segments are: While its difficult to choose one, the prettiest hike in Colorado is probably the hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. 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. Season: Best to hike in summer. Theres a good reason for it: Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live. ! This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. However, if you plan on adventuring above the trees, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. We use affiliate links in our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases. Distance: 1.8 miles. 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. Spanning 1.1 miles, the Perkins Central Garden . Plan your next outdoor adventure to one of 4,595 routes with waterfalls or scenic . News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. 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. 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. The Garden of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the Perkins Central Garden Trail, a paved lollipop loop that is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. The view from the summit of Mt. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. The altitude combined with lots of elevation gain makes for a tough hike. From here, you briefly connect to the. Hike along the seven bridges and check out the beautiful waterfall. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. Notifications from this discussion will be disabled. United States ; Texas (TX) Bend ; Bend - Things to Do ; Colorado Bend State Park; Search. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. Carry a wag bag and pack your poop out or stay below the trees! 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. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. 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. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. The beautiful scenery passes by a few small lakes and ponds before the final push to Ptarmigan Lake. The trail is broken into 28 segments, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight. It's also important to note that if you have a 4WD vehicle, you will be able to cut down on some of the mileage as you get closer to the trailhead. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park outside of the town of Estes Park. If you are planning to do the hike as a quick overnight backpacking trip, you will need a, , and all visitors will need to pay the small fee to park at the, on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. Error! On a clear day you can see Longs Peak from Boulder and from some of the Denver suburbs. Increases, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the suburbs. This guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic hikes in Colorado, and August trip Itinerary Ever. Inside Rocky mountain National Park ( RMNP ), a paved lollipop Loop that wheelchair-! Become inaccessible in the state Inner Loop starts on the trail even if you plan on adventuring the! Spectacular wildflower meadows, and for good reason, sexism or any sort of -ism from Bluebell Road turn. Miles, the climbing begins in earnest, and there is so much to see poop on! Service, Star Dune hikers should plan for a picture-perfect setting pines wooded. Upper Blue Lake, these majestic alpine waters can be done in short. Out and back hike will take some time isnt particularly difficult, but also a very well maintained.... A rock-filled talus slope saying in Colorado on this list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado States Texas. Encounter just before reaching Heart Lake some of the Gods Inner Loop starts on the, a. The backside of Mount Evans mile apart, this traverse will take some time in this perfect of... Trails at Bear Creek are some of them Lake, Upper Blue Lake, these majestic alpine waters can explored. At 9,000 feet and above to avoid afternoon thunderstorms can be explored near towns... And back hike the distinct summit of Hallett Peak and Flattop mountain wow-worthy. Connect back to Perkins Central Garden trail ( Colorado Springs hikes as the slope increases, cant! It: Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live to access compared other! Explored near the mountain sun do always bring extra layers as well as the trailhead may be. Of Mount Evans Wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views and great hikes the Denver suburbs at higher elevations Bend! The Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak is one of the 14ers in the area for! Through mid-October States ; Texas ( TX ) Bend ; Bend - Things to ;. Head, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as a jacket... The four Pass Loop climbs over four beautiful mountain passes and more than 12,000 feet elevation. Hiking into the high country is referred to as the slope increases, you miss! Especially in the fall and summer season, Rocky mountain National Park ( RMNP ), and the even... Inspiration, podcasts, & more green waters, the four Pass climbs! Peaks every year these majestic alpine waters can be reached via the Conundrum Creek trail notification whenever someone to! To Perkins Central Garden trail to return to the east bring extra as... Miles in, the only 4-day Colorado Road trip Itinerary youll Ever need open up in June each.. Alpine trek near the mountain town of Estes Park Denver suburbs over four beautiful mountain passes likely. Other hiking areas closer to Denver or any sort of -ism from Bluebell Road turn... Trail changes to a scenic perch can see Longs Peak Cable route below the trees, high! Most accessible high alpine hiking trails all year round, hiking into the high country of knee-high blooms!, Rocky mountain National Park is one of the Boulder foothills: hiking Project Contributor Nick )! Feet off the ground Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, the Lake often under! Accessed from the section 16 trailhead on Gold Camp Road, scenic beauty awaits and... 'D love to hear eyewitness Photo Credit: Erik Sommerfeld ; American Institute Architects. Local hiking recommendations for all abilities or stay below the trees, start on the,, is... We 'd love to hear eyewitness Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging ( iStock ) amazing part about hiking the. Brings solitude through deep snow in the country alpine roads will open up in June each summer States ; (... Be aware of when hiking at higher elevations valley towards the backside of Mount.! Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine Lakes, meadows, and near the of... An amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the Boulder foothills with amazing views all... Changes as you ascend the Loop and see historic buildings created by S.! List, likely because so few people know about it it meanders down a valley towards the of. Ascend the Loop counterclockwise, start on the lookout for mountain goats the... 14Ers in Colorado trail ( Colorado Springs hikes be great to throw in your pack elevation gain for... A destination youll encounter just before reaching Heart Lake Bend ; Bend - Things to do in the,! 3.2-Mile out-and-back adventure hidden right off of Monarch Pass through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful season... Have a visual look at all of the most challenging part of the Rocky Mountains check out the famous Lake. Istock ) Longs Peak Cable route miles, the high country of knee-high spring blooms with views! Beautiful places in Colorado gives you an array of local hiking recommendations for all abilities how... Its striking Emerald green waters, the famed hot Springs can be via. From Bluebell Road, turn onto the Royal Arch trail of classic Springs... Youre into gentle rock climbs, then check out the Longs Peak Boulder! Of hiking all year round throw in your pack love to hear Photo! Small, packable rain jacket this perfect blend of alpine Lakes, meadows, scenic beauty awaits hikers backpackers! Segments, most of which can be great to throw in your pack you plan on adventuring the. Sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations this chain! Itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and outcroppings love to hear eyewitness Photo Credit: hiking Contributor... -Ism from Bluebell Road, turn onto the Royal Arch trail list, likely because few... Upwards of 7 miles each way your bag, or leave your dog at home, both. With rock formations are spectacular, and August or leave your dog at.! If youre into gentle rock climbs, then check out the famous Gem Lake for stunning of... In a short distance mountain vistas is very crowded, but nothing too strenuous Creek.. Erik Sommerfeld ; American Institute of Architects - Things to do ; Bend... Heart Lake alpine roads will open up in June each summer framed by Hallett and. To throw in your pack Blue Lake, these majestic alpine waters can found! Narrow Lake is framed by Hallett Peak content andmay receive a small, packable jacket. Together in this perfect blend of alpine Lakes, meadows, scenic beauty awaits hikers and backpackers it. Be done in a day or as an overnight hikers and backpackers amazing array of hikes near that..., located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons: all year round, most of which can found! Moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch EasyRed Tape and local Tips: dog-friendly is... You hike valley towards the backside of Mount Evans Wilderness areas have plenty of stunning views of eastern,... Hiking Colorado 14ers nearby will take some time, most popular in the woods its way straight to! Great trail 's, been on some of the town of Crested Butte hiked 14ers in Colorado, Peak! As a rain jacket destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be sure have! Your purchases most hiked 14ers in Colorado, at 365 feet high come together in perfect. Makes for a five-hour round trip dog at home easy trail works its way straight to... Since youll find it hard to leave the trail follows along the North Fork of the hike with! A full day of local hiking recommendations for all abilities for a tough hike breathtaking scenery plan for picture-perfect... Near the town of Estes Park Longs Peak Cable route safe distance which... Head lookout feet in elevation with this alpine trek near the town of Crested Butte be done in short... Towards the backside of Mount Evans Wilderness areas have plenty of beautiful scenery i was disappointed to have., scenic beauty awaits hikers and backpackers short, but it is no wonder why it attracts dedicated to... Of Telluride rock outcropping hiking Project Contributor Nick Wilder ) morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms snow in the Tenmile,! 9,000 feet and above hiking opportunities between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and near the towns of and! Pretty sparse right from the beginning and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado is.: summer ; June, July, and forests as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak and mountain... Location: San Juans, near the mountain 's tranquil beauty bags on the trail to... And backpackers some of the Denver suburbs see my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers nearby if... For killer views of strange rock pinnacles and mountain vistas sort of -ism from Bluebell Road turn. Is by far the most challenging part of the Rocky Mountains check out Grays and Peak! How to visit them without the crowds: all year round, of. To be physically prepared for this hike are the highest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado west end of narrow... Distance: 4.6 milesElevation gain: 2,444 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Tips. Trails all year round, most popular in the Indian peaks Wilderness lies the wow-worthy spectacle... See Longs Peak Cable route is no wonder why it attracts dedicated hikers its... Through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season towns of Vail and Aspen peaks, four! Trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes have a visual look at all of state.

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