If you’ve ever set your desktop wallpaper to magical blue-green waters wishing you may be transported there, you’ll be glad to know the very best hikes in Colorado will try this. Colorado is understood for its gorgeous pure magnificence in addition to its abundance of out of doors adventures together with some epic hikes. With its rugged mountains, speeding rivers, and pristine forests, Colorado presents among the most scenic and difficult hikes in the USA. Whether you’re a newbie or an skilled hiker, there are climbing trails for you in Colorado.
Hiking in Colorado is an expertise not like another. The state is house to 53 peaks that rise above 14,000 ft, often known as “14ers,” and over 40 state parks with a whole bunch of miles of trails.
Top Colorado Hikes
In this text, we are going to discover among the greatest hikes in Colorado, from straightforward family-friendly hikes to more difficult multi-day hikes. We will even present suggestions for planning your journey and staying secure whereas on the paths. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, climbing in Colorado is an journey you’ll always remember.
At the middle of the very best hikes in Colorado are the Rocky Mountains, which stay pristine regardless of no matter else is occurring in different elements of the US. The Rocky Mountain National Park is house to gems of the visible sort. And surrounding these mountains are many different Colorado parks which might be equally as gorgeous. We embrace all of them in this checklist.
1. Bear Lake Trail
Estes Park
This is a half-mile traditional hike for the entire household in Rocky Mountain National Park. It is without doubt one of the greatest hikes in Colorado for households with younger youngsters because it offers them an opportunity to expertise the wilderness whereas additionally making certain they’re secure and on pretty stage floor.
The path has an elevation acquire of simply 50 ft. Despite being a reasonably straightforward and flat hike you get completely gorgeous views of the encompassing mountains, together with Hallett Peak and Longs Peak. You can attain the trailhead from the Beaver Meadows entrance of the park. This is unquestionably a Colorado climbing path you need to add to your checklist in case you are searching for a pleasant straightforward hike with the household. It can also be used as a jumping-off level for different climbing trails in the realm together with the Emerald Lake Trail.
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2. Chasm Lake Trail
Estes Park
If you need to expertise one of the vital lovely crystal clear alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s best to try the Chasm Lake Trail. The path is 8.5 miles lengthy and has an elevation acquire of 2500 ft. It is taken into account a troublesome path as you’ll be beginning out the path at an elevation of virtually 9500 ft, which implies it’s going to be chilly and you may even be in for lightning.
You can attain the trailhead to Chasm Lake on the Longs Peak Ranger Station, which is positioned on the east facet of Rocky Mountain National Park, close to the city of Allenspark. From there, you’re going to be handled to 360 levels of the gorgeous surroundings of the Rockies. The path can have you exploring the tallest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, Long’s Peak. On high of that, you get to take a look at one of many United States’ most gorgeous alpine lakes, Chasm Lake, which is nestled beneath Long’s Peak.
3. Emerald Lake Trail
Estes Park
To rise up shut and private with blue-green water that may have you ever feeling such as you’re in a Disney film it’s essential to do the Emerald Lake Trail. This Rocky Mountain National Park path is simple at simply 3.6 miles with an elevation change of 650 ft.
The path winds by way of aspen groves and pine forests, alongside mountain streams, and previous a number of different smaller lakes earlier than reaching the gorgeous Emerald Lake. Along the best way, you’re going to see Nymph Lake, and Dream Lake and undergo a gorge alongside Tyndall Creek. Once you attain Emerald Lake itself your jaw will drop. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks and presents unbelievable photograph alternatives, particularly through the fall when the aspen bushes are altering colours.
If you’re a fisherman you may attempt your hand at fishing for trout, or just chill out and revel in a picnic lunch, which is what we did. There is a purpose this is without doubt one of the hottest Colorado climbing trails. Getting to the path is simple as a result of it’s on Bear Lake Road and also you begin the hike on the Bear Lake Trailhead.
If you might be visiting throughout excessive season, attempt to arrive earlier than sundown or take the park’s shuttle service because the car parking zone on the trailhead fills up quick.
4. Glacier Gorge Trail – Sky Pond Trail
Estes Park
This is without doubt one of the greatest hikes in the Rocky Mountains for critical hikers. It is a 9-mile loop with a 2162-foot elevation change. You’ll see unbelievable views at Sky Pond in addition to from Glass Lake and Timberline Falls is the piece de resistance.
You can get to the hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead, however the car parking zone is small so arrive early. Also, word that you’ll find snow proper into June and July so it’s a good suggestion to carry poles and snowshoes.
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5. Alberta Falls Trail
Estes Park
The Alberta Falls Trail is without doubt one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the Rocky Mountains and that’s saying lots as there are numerous once you go to Colorado. The Alberta Falls path is a 1.7-mile out-and-back hike with elevation modifications of 232 ft which might be gentle and gradual.
Along the best way, you see attractive aspens and expertise the winding and musical Chaos Creek. The falls themselves drop about 30 ft and as you stand there surrounded by the Rockies, it actually offers you an appreciation for the ability of Mother Nature. You can attain the path by heading out on Bear Lake Road to the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. That’s about 12 miles from Estes Park and makes for among the finest day hikes once you’re staying in city.
6. The Rocky Mountains Colorado Trail
Denver
Do you even hike when you’ve by no means been on the Colorado Trail? The Colorado Trail is an nearly 500-mile hike that crosses by way of the state. The path runs from Durango to the Waterton Canyon Trailhead in Durango and is without doubt one of the most troublesome trails in Colorado.
This is the mom of all of the climbing trails in Colorado. When you get on this path, relaxation assured that you’re going to see a big swath of Colorado full with rolling hills and rocky inclines. Along the path, you’re experiencing 8 mountain ranges and will probably be hitting a excessive of greater than 13,000 ft in the San Juan Mountains in your uphill climbing. The Colorado Trail is a highly regarded hike since you get the very best climbing in Colorado alongside one route.
Most folks sort out this hike in segments. If you had been to do the whole hike it will take you anyplace from 4 to six weeks. Luckily, it’s damaged up into 28 segments and you’ll hike many of those individually. Some of probably the most lovely sections are Segments 5-8. For extra info on every phase try The Colorado Trail Foundation.
Along the best way, you’re going to see wildlife like bighorn sheep simply moseying round. You’re additionally going to be leaping over tiny creeks and strolling alongside rivers because the Rockies watch on. The parking space in the south finish in addition to the final word north finish can refill quick.
That means you’ll have a number of folks on the hike with you on the high and backside of the path. However, you’ll get the very best climbing in once you’re in the center. Doing the entire path is greatest for skilled hikers as the center elements can get just a little troublesome.
7. Blue Lakes Trail
This is probably going the very best hike in Colorado to see mountain goats as a herd is understood to roam the realm. The hike is simply 1 mile lengthy with an elevation acquire of simply 108 ft however getting there is usually a problem as you’ve bought to rise up a steep gravel street to get to the Blue Lakes trailhead which is healthier for 4WD autos. Alternatively, you possibly can simply stroll the gravel street as much as the trailhead. Just word this hike is to not be confused with the Blue Lakes Hike close to Telluride. They are 2 completely different hikes.
This place can get fairly busy and the car parking zone is small so, we suggest carpooling and visiting mid-week, when the crowds are at their lowest.
More folks report seeing mountain goats in the afternoon than in the morning, however each occasions are attainable. In addition to the goats, you’ll the gorgeous Blue Lakes and wonderful wildflowers when in season. Do word that there’s scrambling required.
8. Hanging Lake Trail
Glenwood Springs
Surely the title alone entices many. What precisely is a dangling lake? Well, this hanging lake is a results of some geological actions that pushed the lake mattress off the cliff it was on. The results of that could be a lake sitting just under the cliff with remnants of its lake mattress nonetheless on high of the cliff from which a waterfall drops into it.
The lake itself is a crayon blue-green and all of that magnificence has made the Hanging Lake Trail a well-liked hike in Colorado. This is a 3-mile hike in White River National Forest, taking you proper into the thick of the park. You can get to the path through the Glenwood Springs trailhead. Hike early to keep away from crowds.
9. Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail
Breckenridge
For among the finest hikes in Colorado to get a taste of the entire state, you want this hike It is positioned in White River National Park, and the Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes path presents among the finest hikes. This is a 7.8-mile hike with a 1920-foot elevation acquire. This is without doubt one of the greatest hikes in Colorado in case you are touring together with your canine as many trails don’t let enable your pooch on the paths.
You can begin your hike on the Spruce Creek Trailhead which is discovered simply outdoors of Breckenridge on Spruce Creek Road. You’ll be crossing streams and trying out waterfalls alongside the best way. The starting of the path is average alongside the Mohawk Lakes however will get steep midway by way of at Mayflower Lake. The views of Lower Mohawk Lake after which Upper Mohawk Lake are gorgeous.
10. First and Second Flatirons Loop Trail
Boulder
This 2.7-mile path goes to take you thru among the most gorgeous surroundings in Colorado, but it surely definitely isn’t going to be straightforward. You must do some mountaineering if you wish to see Boulder’s iconic flat irons. This flatirons path is concrete and steep in the start however then softens out once you get to the dust path portion.
When you get to the highest you possibly can completely spectacular views of the Rocky Mountain vary. To get to the path you possibly can take Baseline Road to the Gregory Canyon trailhead the place you possibly can park and begin your journey. You can do the path in about 2 hours at a leisurely tempo.
11. Fountain Valley Trail (Garden of the Gods)
Colorado Springs
The Fountain Valley Trail is 2.2 miles lengthy with a 324 elevation change. The path is positioned in Roxborough State Park, close to Colorado Springs, which is taken into account the Garden of the Gods and contains the Gods trails, and is taken into account fairly straightforward. Despite being a straightforward hike, there’s numerous journey available alongside the best way with purple rock formations abound.
If you’re fortunate, you would possibly even see a fox or mule deer poke their head up from behind a kind of formations. You can get to the trailhead from Willow Creek Trail close to the doorway of Roxborough State Park.
12. Monarch Lake Loop Trail
Granby
This 4.2-mile path in Arapaho National Forest is tremendous straightforward and tremendous fashionable and makes it among the finest hikes in Colorado for households. It takes you round Monarch Lake and makes for a pleasant strategy to spend time with household. Some animals do frequent the realm with a majority of the sitings being of moose. The trailhead is positioned on Highway 125 close to Monarch Lake. Here you will see that bogs and parking.
13. Pawnee Pass Trail
Boulder
You can try a glacier as you make your means alongside Pawnee Pass Trail to Isabelle Lake. After that, you’re doing a little switchbacks to get to gorgeous views. You’ll see Mount Audobon and Apache Peak. The Pawnee Pass Trail is 10 miles lengthy with an elevation change of near 3000 ft so it’s not precisely a family-fit journey you probably have younger youngsters.
It is a superb journey for each intermediate hikers and avid hikers alike with alpine meadows, lovely surroundings, and enjoyable rock scrambles. You will expertise snow and icy patches for many of the yr past the July and August months. You can get to the Pawnee Pass trailhead from Brainard Lake Road to the Brainard Lake Conservation Area. The precise trailhead inside Brainard Lake is on the Long Lake trailhead which is in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.
14. Ice Lakes Basin Trail
Silverton
First and foremost, it’s essential to have climbing boots if you wish to do an outside journey on the Ice Lakes Basin Trail climbing trails. This path sits in San Juan Forest and also you’re going to have an incline of 3000- ft which is lots for common Colorado hikes. You ought to have poles when you selected going to this climbing vacation spot.
There are steep climbs however you might be additionally rewarded with views of ice lakes, together with an island lake, and even an outdated stone constructing you possibly can discover. There are switchbacks and as we talked about, steep inclines, however this is without doubt one of the greatest climbing trails in Colorado when you like an journey.
15. Crater Lake Trail
Granby
This 3.5-mile path is without doubt one of the greatest hikes in Colorado and possibly the very best in Aspen. It is positioned in the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Area. It was fashioned from geological processes that befell 1000’s of years in the past when glaciers began floating away and left what we all know as Crater Lake.
If you’re staying in Aspen then there’s a shuttle that may take you to the trailhead from Rubey Park. Alternatively, you possibly can drive there on Highway 82 and get off on Maroon Creek Road to park in the parking space.
16. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail
Aspen
The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is a picturesque climbing path that can also be positioned in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, close to Aspen, Colorado. The path spans roughly 3.3 miles and takes hikers by way of among the most gorgeous pure landscapes in the nation.
The trailhead for the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is located at Maroon Lake. From there, hikers can observe the path because it winds by way of the wilderness space, passing by groves of aspen bushes, cascading waterfalls, and fields of wildflowers.
One of the highlights of the path is the chance to catch breathtaking views of the Maroon Bells themselves. These majestic peaks are among the most iconic in the Rocky Mountains, and their towering presence is a sight to behold particularly as they’re mirrored in the lake beneath. They are also referred to as probably the most photographed mountains in North America.
The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is rated as average problem, making it accessible to hikers of all ability ranges. The path does get actually busy in the excessive season, however the views are value it. This can also be the kicking-off level for the hike to Crater Lake and we’d recommend incorporating that into your day as effectively.
17. South Colony Lakes Trail
Canon City
The South Colony Lakes Trail is a difficult climbing path positioned in the Sangre de Cristo Range of the Rocky Mountains, close to Westcliffe, Colorado. The path is about 12 miles and takes you thru among the most gorgeous pure landscapes in the realm.
The trailhead for the South Colony Lakes Trail is positioned on the finish of a dust street, and the primary few miles of the path are comparatively straightforward, passing by way of a forest of aspen and pine bushes. However, because the path progresses, it turns into steeper and tougher, with switchbacks and rocky terrain.
One of the highlights of the South Colony Lakes Trail is the chance to view a number of peaks which might be over 14,000 ft in elevation, together with Crestone Peak and Crestone Needle. These majestic peaks are among the most difficult to climb in Colorado, and their towering presence is awe-inspiring.
The South Colony Lakes Trail is rated as troublesome, making it appropriate for skilled hikers who’re in good bodily situation. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, however hikers ought to be ready for steep climbs and doubtlessly difficult climate situations.
18. Fish Creek Falls Trail
Steamboat Springs
Fish Creek Falls Trail is a well-liked climbing vacation spot positioned close to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The trailhead for Fish Creek Falls may be accessed from Fish Creek Falls Road, which is positioned roughly three miles from downtown Steamboat Springs.
The path is roughly 4.7 miles spherical journey and presents gorgeous views of the 283-foot Fish Creek Falls. The rocky path is strenuous, with an elevation acquire of roughly 1,450 ft, so be ready for a exercise. Lots of people flip round at Upper Fish Creek Falls, however in case you are extra adventurous you possibly can proceed on to Long Lake (this provides one other 7.6 miles to your journey, so be ready).
If you might be searching for a better route you possibly can take the straightforward, 0.3-mile paved path to the falls viewing space. Make positive to test the web site as this path is usually closed as a consequence of avalanche danger in the winter and early spring.
Rocky Mountain National Park Entrance Fees
The first half of this information to the very best hikes in Colorado focuses on among the greatest Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes. We then department out to discover extra of Colorado in the second half of the information. Read this whole information to the very best Rocky Mountain National Park hikes
Note: Reservations Required for Rocky Mountain National Park: From May 26 by way of October 22, 2023, guests to Rocky Mountain National Park will want a timed entry allow and an entrance cross to recreate in the park. Visit the RM National Park web site for extra particulars and path closures.
Get your Pocket Guide to the Best Easy Day Hikes of Rocky Mountain National Park Pick up your map of the Rocky Mountain National Park Trails on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
What is probably the most scenic hike in Colorado?
One of probably the most scenic hikes in Colorado is the Alberta Falls Trail which provides you views of beyond-real inexperienced waters and a waterfall that’s magical. If you need to really feel like an actual explorer out on the climbing trails, try the Continental Divide at Wolf Creek Pass. That’s positioned in the San Juan Mountain vary and offers you gorgeous views.
What’s the toughest hike in Colorado?
The Classic Colorado Trail might be one of many hardest hikes in Colorado as a result of it’s lengthy and takes you over many geographical landscapes. To do that hike, you’ve bought to dig in for the lengthy haul and be ready to camp and expertise incremental climate.
The Square Top Mountain Trail provides you with an elevation acquire of 2500 ft with rock scrambles, and steep climbs, and in flip, is taken into account troublesome.
How many hikes are in Colorado?
There are a whole bunch of hikes in Colorado. You can’t put a quantity to it as a result of many are mixed and others are off-trail.
Where can I hike in Colorado proper now?
You can do a couple of completely different hikes however a terrific place to begin a hike in your street journey in Colorado proper now could be to go to Rocky Mountain National Park. There you’ve got a number of decisions and you’ll ask the park ranger which is greatest to go on proper now relying on the season and closures.
Map of Colorado Hiking Trails
In Conclusion
There is little question that climbing in Colorado is one thing that ought to be added to any out of doors lover’s bucket checklist. With one of the vital lovely National Parks in the US, well-maintained trails, contemporary mountain air, and the chance for backcountry climbing there isn’t any doubt you’re going to adore it right here. So seize your sturdy climbing boots, do your analysis, and plan your subsequent climbing journey in Colorado.