18 Best Hikes in Colorado For 2023

If you’ve ever set your desktop wallpaper to magical blue-green waters wishing you would be transported there, you’ll be completely happy to know the perfect 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, dashing rivers, and pristine forests, Colorado affords among the most scenic and difficult hikes within the USA. Whether you’re a newbie or an skilled hiker, there are mountaineering trails for you in Colorado.

Hiking in Colorado is an expertise not like some other. The state is house to 53 peaks that rise above 14,000 ft, generally known as “14ers,” and over 40 state parks with a whole bunch of miles of trails.

Top Colorado Hikes

In this text, we’ll discover among the finest hikes in Colorado, from simple family-friendly hikes to more difficult multi-day hikes. We may also present ideas for planning your journey and staying protected whereas on the paths. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, mountaineering in Colorado is an journey you’ll always remember.

At the middle of the perfect hikes in Colorado are the Rocky Mountains, which stay pristine regardless of no matter else is happening in different components 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 can be equally as gorgeous. We embody all of them on this record.

1. Bear Lake Trail

Estes Park

This is a half-mile basic hike for the entire household in Rocky Mountain National Park. It is among the finest hikes in Colorado for households with younger kids because it offers them an opportunity to expertise the wilderness whereas additionally guaranteeing they’re protected and on pretty degree floor.

The path has an elevation achieve of simply 50 ft. Despite being a reasonably simple and flat hike you get completely gorgeous views of the encircling mountains, together with Hallett Peak and Longs Peak. You can attain the trailhead from the Beaver Meadows entrance of the park. This is certainly a Colorado mountaineering path you wish to add to your record if you’re in search of a pleasant simple hike with the household. It can be used as a jumping-off level for different mountaineering trails within the space together with the Emerald Lake Trail.

Book this highly-rated personal tour of Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver the place your information will discover the perfect spots for wildlife, images, elective brief hikes, and walks.

2. Chasm Lake Trail

Estes Park

If you wish to expertise one of the crucial stunning 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 achieve of 2500 ft. It is taken into account a tough path as you’ll be beginning out the path at an elevation of just about 9500 ft, which suggests it’s going to be chilly and you would even be in for lightning. 

You can attain the trailhead to Chasm Lake on the Longs Peak Ranger Station, which is situated on the east aspect of Rocky Mountain National Park, close to the city of Allenspark. From there, you’re going to be handled to 360 levels of the attractive surroundings of the Rockies. The path could have you exploring the tallest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, Long’s Peak. On prime of that, you get to take a look at one of many United States’ most gorgeous alpine lakes, Chasm Lake, which is nestled under Long’s Peak. 

3. Emerald Lake Trail

Estes Park

To stand up shut and private with blue-green water that may have you ever feeling such as you’re in a Disney film you have to do the Emerald Lake Trail. This Rocky Mountain National Park path is straightforward 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 affords unimaginable picture alternatives, particularly through the fall when the aspen timber are altering colours.

If you’re a fisherman you would attempt your hand at fishing for trout, or just chill out and luxuriate in a picnic lunch, which is what we did. There is a motive this is among the hottest Colorado mountaineering trails. Getting to the path is straightforward 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 among the finest hikes within the Rocky Mountains for severe hikers. It is a 9-mile loop with a 2162-foot elevation change. You’ll see unimaginable 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, observe that you will discover snow proper into June and July so it’s a good suggestion to convey poles and snowshoes.   

Visiting Denver, Colorado? This half-day tour takes you to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to see the Red Rocks Amphitheater, Evergreen Lake, and a scenic drive across the Lariat Route. Book it right here and really feel snug with simple cancellation inside 24 hours of the tour.

5. Alberta Falls Trail

Estes Park

The Alberta Falls Trail is among the most gorgeous waterfalls within the Rocky Mountains and that’s saying loads as there are a lot of 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 can be tender 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 probably the greatest day hikes once you’re staying on the town.

6. The Rocky Mountains Colorado Trail 

Denver

Do you even hike if you happen to’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 among the most tough trails in Colorado. 

This is the mom of all of the mountaineering 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 can be hitting a excessive of greater than 13,000 ft within the San Juan Mountains in your uphill climbing. The Colorado Trail is a extremely popular hike since you get the perfect mountaineering in Colorado alongside one route.

Most individuals deal with this hike in segments. If you have been to do the complete hike it could take you anyplace from 4 to six weeks. Luckily, it’s damaged up into 28 segments and you may hike many of those individually. Some of probably the most stunning sections are Segments 5-8. For extra data 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 within the south finish in addition to the final word north finish can refill quick.

That means you’ll have a number of individuals on the hike with you on the prime and backside of the path. However, you’ll get the perfect mountaineering in once you’re within the center. Doing the entire path is finest for skilled hikers as the center components can get somewhat tough.

7. Blue Lakes Trail

This is probably going the perfect 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 achieve of simply 108 ft however getting there is usually a problem as you’ve bought to stand up a steep gravel highway to get to the Blue Lakes trailhead which is best for 4WD automobiles. Alternatively, you’ll be able to simply stroll the gravel highway as much as the trailhead. Just observe this hike is to not be confused with the Blue Lakes Hike close to Telluride. They are 2 totally different hikes.

This place can get fairly busy and the car parking zone is small so, we advocate carpooling and visiting mid-week, when the crowds are at their lowest.

More individuals report seeing mountain goats within the afternoon than within the morning, however each occasions are attainable. In addition to the goats, you’ll the attractive Blue Lakes and beautiful wildflowers when in season. Do observe that there’s scrambling required. 

8. Hanging Lake Trail

Glenwood Springs

Surely the identify 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 may be a lake sitting just under the cliff with remnants of its lake mattress nonetheless on prime 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 preferred 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 by way of the Glenwood Springs trailhead. Hike early to keep away from crowds.

9. Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail

Breckenridge

For probably the greatest hikes in Colorado to get a taste of the entire state, you want this hike It is situated in White River National Park, and the Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes path affords probably the greatest hikes. This is a 7.8-mile hike with a 1920-foot elevation achieve. This is among the finest hikes in Colorado if you’re touring along 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 exterior 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 reasonable 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 actually isn’t going to be simple. You must do some mountaineering if you wish to see Boulder’s iconic flat irons. This flatirons path is concrete and steep to start with however then softens out once you get to the grime path portion.

When you get to the highest you’ll be able to completely spectacular views of the Rocky Mountain vary. To get to the path you’ll be able to take Baseline Road to the Gregory Canyon trailhead the place you’ll be able to 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 situated 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 simple. Despite being a simple hike, there’s lots of journey available alongside the best way with purple rock formations abound.

If you’re fortunate, you may 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 simple and tremendous in style and makes it probably the greatest hikes in Colorado for households. It takes you round Monarch Lake and makes for a pleasant approach to spend time with household. Some animals do frequent the realm with a majority of the sitings being of moose. The trailhead is situated on Highway 125 close to Monarch Lake. Here one can find bogs and parking.

13. Pawnee Pass Trail

Boulder

You can try a glacier as you make your approach 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 when you have younger kids.

It is a superb journey for each intermediate hikers and avid hikers alike with alpine meadows, stunning surroundings, and enjoyable rock scrambles. You will expertise snow and icy patches for a lot 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 within the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.

14. Ice Lakes Basin Trail

Silverton

First and foremost, you have to have mountaineering boots if you wish to do an outside journey on the Ice Lakes Basin Trail mountaineering trails. This path sits in San Juan Forest and also you’re going to have an incline of 3000- ft which is loads for common Colorado hikes. You ought to have poles if you happen to selected going to this mountaineering 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’ll be able to discover. There are switchbacks and as we talked about, steep inclines, however this is among the finest mountaineering trails in Colorado if you happen to like an journey.

15. Crater Lake Trail

Granby

This 3.5-mile path is among the finest hikes in Colorado and doubtless the finest in Aspen. It is situated within the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Area. It was fashioned from geological processes that came about 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’ll be able to drive there on Highway 82 and get off on Maroon Creek Road to park within the parking space.

16. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail

Aspen

The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is a picturesque mountaineering path that can be situated within 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 within the nation.

The trailhead for the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is located at Maroon Lake. From there, hikers can comply with the path because it winds by way of the wilderness space, passing by groves of aspen timber, 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 within the Rocky Mountains, and their towering presence is a sight to behold particularly as they’re mirrored within the lake under. They are often known as probably the most photographed mountains in North America.

The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is rated as reasonable issue, making it accessible to hikers of all ability ranges. The path does get actually busy within the excessive season, however the views are price it. This can be the kicking-off level for the hike to Crater Lake and we’d counsel incorporating that into your day as effectively.

17. South Colony Lakes Trail

Canon City

The South Colony Lakes Trail is a difficult mountaineering path situated within 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 within the space.

The trailhead for the South Colony Lakes Trail is situated on the finish of a dust highway, and the primary few miles of the path are comparatively simple, passing by way of a forest of aspen and pine timber. However, because the path progresses, it turns into steeper and harder, 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 can 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 tough, making it appropriate for skilled hikers who’re in good bodily situation. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, however hikers needs to be ready for steep climbs and probably difficult climate situations.

18. Fish Creek Falls Trail

Steamboat Springs

Fish Creek Falls Trail is a well-liked mountaineering vacation spot situated close to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The trailhead for Fish Creek Falls will be accessed from Fish Creek Falls Road, which is situated roughly three miles from downtown Steamboat Springs.

The path is roughly 4.7 miles spherical journey and affords gorgeous views of the 283-foot Fish Creek Falls. The rocky path is strenuous, with an elevation achieve of roughly 1,450 ft, so be ready for a exercise. Lots of people flip round at Upper Fish Creek Falls, however if you’re extra adventurous you’ll be able to proceed on to Long Lake (this provides one other 7.6 miles to your journey, so be ready).

If you might be in search of a better route you’ll be able to take the straightforward, 0.3-mile paved path to the falls viewing space. Make positive to verify the web site as this path is typically closed because of avalanche danger within the winter and early spring.

Rocky Mountain National Park Entrance Fees

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 supplies you views of beyond-real inexperienced waters and a waterfall that’s magical. If you wish to really feel like an actual explorer out on the mountaineering trails, try the Continental Divide at Wolf Creek Pass. That’s situated within 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 offers you an elevation achieve of 2500 ft with rock scrambles, and steep climbs, and in flip, is taken into account tough.

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 just a few totally different hikes however an amazing place to begin a hike in your highway journey in Colorado proper now can be to go to Rocky Mountain National Park. There you’ve got a number of decisions and you may ask the park ranger which is finest to go on proper now relying on the season and closures.

Map of Colorado Hiking Trails

In Conclusion

There is little question that mountaineering in Colorado is one thing that needs to be added to any outside lover’s bucket record. With one of the crucial stunning National Parks within the US, well-maintained trails, recent mountain air, and the chance for backcountry mountaineering there isn’t any doubt you’ll adore it right here. So seize your sturdy mountaineering boots, do your analysis, and plan your subsequent mountaineering journey in Colorado.