most beautiful hikes in colorado

But Victoria's .SUNshine Girl Emily, a 5-foot-7, hazel-eyed Taurus who posed for us in 2018, loves yoga, hiking, writing in her journal and skiing. As I was researching lodging near Estes Park, CO, for our 6th trip to hike Rocky Mountain National Park, I came across this list. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. 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. To the south, you will have views of Blue Lakes and North Star Mountain across the valley. Soak in the beauty of James Peak Wilderness as you make your way to Heart Lake via Rogers Pass Trail. She is also known for being a bookworm and owning more running shoes than most people would consider socially acceptable. Photo credit: TRAILSOURCE.COM (flickr), If you're looking to spend a little more time in nature, take to the trails by exploring one of the largest wilderness areas in the state the Weminuche Wilderness. 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. For an added bonus, time your hike to catch the sunrise or sunset. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Crystal Mill is every photographer's dream. Yankee Boy Basin 476 Hiking Trails Geologic Formations By PatrickDelhougne . This hike itself is rather short, but the views are impressive. Photo Credit: scgerding (iStock). Snow can last on this hike well into June. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, American Basin is best explored from mid-July to early August. As one of the topmost scenic hikes in Colorado, Hanging Lake is on everyones to-do list. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. Rapid weather changes can be expected on this high altitude trek. Nestled outside of the beautiful mountain town of Breckenridge, the sparkling alpine waters combined with granite views and colorful blooms offers up the perfect summer escape. This stunning hike brings one to one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado. You can also access one of the best hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and then set off from there. The trick? There are also great groups on Facebook that post trail conditions. Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery. Only about a 1-hour drive from downtown Denver. With sandstone monoliths, tall peaks, and steep canyons, theres a lot to get exciting about when it comes to hiking in Colorado Springs. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. Due to the low level of difficulty and its proximity to Denver, this hike can get very popular. 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. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. 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. Arrive at the TH before 7 am. Rocky Mountain National Park is a truly breathtaking area and a great introduction to Colorado. Photo Credit: Christian Murdock, The Gazette. Its quintessentially Colorado and home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the state. While this loop will take you away from the hustle of nearby Colorado Springs, dont expect to be alone, as this popular trail can get quite crowded, especially in the evenings and on the weekends during the summer. Back away slowly and be sure to keep a safe distance. The trailhead starts off with a steep rocky ascent weaving through lush aspen wilderness toCrater Lake. This is by far the most photographed spot in Colorado. Success! Its also an iconic beginner Colorado 14er so if you can, come early (start before 5 am to beat the crowds, 6 am to hike safely and avoid summer storm cycles). Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail. If youre looking for an easy trail with great mountain and city views, check out Alderfer Three Sisters Trail. Also be aware of the fact that visitors are charged $25 per vehicle, $20 per motorcycle, and $15 per person to enter the park. The Royal Arch is a spectacular rock formation that forms an arch. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. This section of the hike passes through a verdant high-alpine meadow where the wildflowers are plentiful in season. racist or sexually-oriented language. It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. Check out 306 wheelchair-friendly trails with helpful accessibility guidance. Here comes the big question! Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. Dependent on the seasonal opening of Independence Pass. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. This is another great 14er hike to do in the I-70 area. Storms come in quickly and the weather changes on a dime here. This 737-acre city park offers more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Towering beautifully over hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers, the unique red rock formations offer a playground of adventure. (Photo Credit: Hiking Project Contributor. Photo Credit: Adam-Springer (iStock). Sneffels is a Telluride classic and is one of the 14ers in the area. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. Reaching the 11,780-foot lake begins from the Longs Peak Trailhead. Location: Northern front range. You will need a park pass and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. This article will mainly focus on some of the best day hikes. . Pants will also be nice to have in case of a rogue thunderstorm. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation gain: 1,141 feetDifficulty: Easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. Grays and Torreys are so commonly hiked together that many refer to the two 14ers inseparably. The hike along the canyon is stunning! The turquoise coloring is unlike anything else in the state. Difficulty: moderate to hard. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. 2. Soakers visiting from early October to late June may encounter snow. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Waterfalls of Minnesota: Your Guide to the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the Stat at the best online prices at eBay! This trail is accessible in the winter, but due to road closures, it would add upwards of 7 miles each way. On a calm, clear day the mountains reflections in the lake makes for a picture-perfect setting. The 8.7-mile out-and-back trail climbs steeply into the mountains starting from the base of the South Mineral Valley near Silverton. Many hikes in Colorado are accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, Matthews/Winters Park is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Sniktau is one of the best sunset hikes in Colorado. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. 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. 10. 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. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass Trail back to the trailhead to complete the loop. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. (Photos Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Nick Wilder). Go for sunrise. best practices. The La Plata Mountains can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the small town of Mancos. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. The west end of this narrow lake is framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. However, theres plenty to see here. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. One can hike all year round in Colorado. There is also a shuttle service in the summer and fall seasons. Nature & Parks, State Parks. These hikes are much harder to get to but provide more solitude and more adventure than hiking in other parts of the state. Micro-spikes can useful when there is snow on the windswept trail. Peaks of granite tower over the alpine waters creating a stunning backdrop for hikers and backpackers. This is a family-friendly hike that should not be missed in Colorado. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. This is a heavily trafficked area, so be sure to get there early. Although short, theres quite a bit of gain on this hike, making it moderate in difficulty. This 486-mile trail stretches from Denver to Durango and is the highest thru-hike in America. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. Photo Credit: SumikoPhoto (iStock). This could be the most popular fall hike in Colorado. The road is rather rocky and a 44 car is recommended. You can learn more about avalanche forecasting and avalanche safety at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Acclimatize properly. 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. 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 Continental Divide Trail. Start no later than 2 am. Here are 10 hikes to take that lead to pristine bodies of water. 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. Different public lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so it is important to be familiar with the area that you are hiking in. No matter what you're looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in Colorado to suit your needs. Colorado National Monument is one of the best winter hiking destinations in Colorado. The next section will now include some of the best hiking in Colorado. From here, you briefly connect to the. Depends on road conditions and the seasons snowpack. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the evening. Distance: 5.0 milesElevation Gain: 741 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. MOUNT ELBERT 5. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Open today: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. 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. In the summer, wildflowers are abundant. The trail becomes rockier as you climb. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. The trail is broken into 28 segments, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight. Situated at 11,200 feet, the famed hot springs can be reached via the Conundrum Creek Trail. Aspen, Colorado is obviously known for its Aspen trees! The standard route features a 14-mile class two climb up the eastern slopes. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Its almost a rite of passage to hike this iconic hiking trail in Colorado. Garden of the Gods is not only one of the most scenic places in Colorado, but the trails that trace through this landscape also make up some of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado too. Spencer McKee takes in sweeping alpine views on the Mount Massive trail. Photo Credit: eschuette1. There are a number of routes for reaching the 14,421-foot summit. Between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes. Be prepared to not have cell service while you hike. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. One can encounter snow on Colorado hiking trails all year round. This is an amazing hike in the San Juans that features two incredibly blue and green lakes that are surrounded by towering peaks. This is a 7.8-mile with 1920-feet elevation gain. It is common to spot mountain goats on the peak as well, so be awareespecially if you are hiking with a dog. Hikers can bag four peaks in a single day trek including Mount Bross (14,172 feet), Mount Lincoln (14,286 feet), Mount Cameron (14,238 feet) and Mount Democrat (14,148 feet). Garden of the Gods Perkins Central Garden Trail (Colorado Springs) AllTrails/Brian Mehringer. Join once, enjoy forever. Additional resources for planning a hiking trip to Colorado. Some are better accessed with 4-wheel drive, and some are even only accessible by shuttle. Expect this hike to take 10-15 hours. The 4.5-mile path will lead you to a historical mill that now sits abandoned above the Crystal River in Gunnison County. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Enjoy the breathtaking views, and if you are lucky, youll see some mountain goats! Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). My brother and I are going to CO in July, this rlly helped narrow it down! Showcasing breathtaking natural scenery, the mill is arguably one of the most photographed structures in all of the state. This moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. When it comes to hikes in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery. Photo Credit: James Walton. With a 14.5 mile round trip and over 5,000 ft elevation gain, this peak will challenge you in every way possible, but the end reward will be absolutely priceless. Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Adding even more wonder to your adventure, the trail splits off toward. Photo Credit: klosfoto (iStock). The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Related: The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Mountains above 14,000 feet are known as 14ers. 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. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the Village Walk Trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path. For killer views of eastern Colorado, Pikes Peak, and the Rocky Mountains check out Devils Head Lookout. Here is an article about getting altitude sickness in Colorado. The "Keyhole" is main route for reaching the iconic 14,259-foot summit. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. The trail starts mellow and quickly builds up to steep elevation gains. Like other 14er hikes, it is very important to start early and end early. Because the hiking is on the sand, there isnt much of an established trail. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass Trail back to the trailhead to complete the loop. You can hike the loop in either direction, but by hiking counterclockwise, youll tackle the two highest passes first. Dont forget to bring your camera! So, try and visit on a quiet weekday morning to avoid the crowds and take in the Fountain and Lyons rock formations that surround you. 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. Breathtaking is an appropriate way to describe the loop in many ways, as the route gains more than 7,300 feet and climbs above 12,000 feet at four different passesBuckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Airand West Maroon. Thanks for the article! However, if you plan on adventuring above the trees, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Distance: 3.1Elevation Gain: 990Difficulty: easy to moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Popular fall hiking can be found in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), and near the towns of Vail and Aspen. For more information, please visit the town of Glenwood Springs website. Some Colorado State parks and all National Parks have fees to enter the park. A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. All in all, this hike is pretty chill, except for the last mile. 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. 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. The majority of the roads up to the high alpine backcountry do not open until June every season. Please follow these rules when visiting and remember, when you're exploring to leave absolutely no trace. Maroon Bells, near Aspen, are two of Colorado's most famous mountains and are well known for their views. A little more than 6 miles in, you will turn onto the, . The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. To get to the lakes, you'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet. 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. The trail ends at the natural rock arch of Royal Arch, which offers a unique vantage point of Boulder and views to the north and south along the Front Range. This gentle trail meanders its way along a deep sandstone canyon where you can admire monolithic sandstone towers whose beauty rivals that of nearby Moab. 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. . On the west side, you will spot the famous, , and to the east, White Rock. Seven Bridges Trail, North Cheyenne Canon Park. Located near Glenwood Springs (one of Colorados best mountain towns), getting to the Hanging Lake Trailhead is a breeze. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. 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. On the west side, you will spot the famous Kissing Camels, and to the east, White Rock. A lighter snow season will allow for earlier season hiking. Its also a pretty easy trail to hike since there is little elevation change and the path features several stellar views of the surrounding canyon and the river below. Colorado is a hiking mecca thats filled with unbelievably beautiful trails. The hike is fairly strenuous and takes anywhere from 10 to 15 hours to complete, so be sure to plan accordingly. Trailhead Location: Pandora Public Parking and Trailhead. . While summertime is the best time to venture into higher altitude hikes in the alpine, the summer also has its dangers. Photo Credit: RondaKimbrow (iStock). You'll find this 3.2-mile out-and-back adventure hidden right off of Monarch Pass. Longs Peak. Fall can quickly turn to winter in some areas of the state. Continue on another one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and attempt this semi-challenging out and back hike. Grays (14,270')and Torreys (14,267') are situated along the Continental Divide within the Arapaho National Forest near the small town of Idaho Springs. As with any hiking day, it is especially important to drink lots of water and make sure you are eating enough. Generally speaking, areas above 9,000 feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow. This also has a high concentration of popular 14er hikes. 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. A cozy windbreaker for those gusty summits 5. 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. You will need a, and, as this is a popular trailhead, be sure to arrive earlyespecially in the summer months. Permits are required for an overnight. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism Upper Blue Lake from Quandary Peak. Hopefully by 2023 the park will have permission to start . This hike has fantastic views of the mountains in the front range and Summit county. Its also only 3.2 miles long and takes you past some gorgeous alpine lakes. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. jmangum2. It also depends on the snow year. While not a very challenging hike, this hike is on our list because of how unique it is. , a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. 22. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. This guide includes: Get oriented with this map of Colorado Hikes. Hiking at altitude is tough work. Pro Tip: If youre into hiking up peaks, this trailhead offers access to some of the best 13ers in Colorado. Its hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. The Sharkstooth Trail is an excellent way to tour this lonely chain of distinct peaks. Its one of the easiest hikes near Denver and has plenty of stellar scenery to boot. A personal favorite of mine, this trail is well worth the effort. Hiking has been a popular Colorado activity since the Colorado Trail was created in the 1970s. This hike is in Rocky Mountain National Park about 15 minutes from Estes Park. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. In total, it should take you just under 2.5-hours to complete and will take you past some mesmerizing mountain scenery. No dogs. 3. As a Colorado local and writer for the outdoor industry, Im a total pro at hitting the most amazing hikes in Colorado without the crowds. Dog-friendly. The trip takes about 2 hours and has chains to hold for the steep sections. Enjoy the scenery from the trail to avoid tramping this beloved environment. The first snowfall up high can occur as early as the first week of September! 2022 5. Hopefully, this provides a great introduction to some of the best places to hike in Colorado. This is my favorite place to take out-of-town visitors on a scenic jaunt. Colorado Springs also has a great number of hikes close to town and is under the shadow of Pikes Peak, a 14er. If you are flying into Colorado, Denver International Airport is the best option. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. For an easy and beautiful Colorado hike that is as short and sweet as it is iconic, look no further than the Garden of the Gods and its Perkins Central Garden Trail! If hiking the loop counterclockwise, start on the Palmer Trail, which is best accessed from the Section 16 Trailhead on Gold Camp Road. Pacific Tarn in the Tenmile Range. Chief Mountain. PYRAMID PEAK 3. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. Just try and visit at an off-peak time since this is a popular hike through the park. South Colony Lakes holds a special place in my heart. Spring can be a tough time to hike, depending on the conditions. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. : Granby, CO, in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, 103 miles northwest of Denver, : A long day hike or an overnight backpacking trip, Located in the mountains west of Boulder, Indian Peaks Wilderness is a remarkable wilderness area with miles of pristine trails and many access points on both sides of the Continental Divide. Dont stop here, as another singletrack trail on the west side of Mirror Lake heads on to. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. Its free. 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. Heading towards Rollinsville, youll find the one's the most beautiful wildflower-laced treks in the state. See my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info. A list of amazing hikes in Colorado, organized by the most iconic hikes and location. Explore the high country with a triple alpine lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail. Comfy pair of hiking boots 3. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. Located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park is tucked away in the rolling and forested foothills of Pikes Peak. Blue Lakes Trail, Mount Sneffels Wilderness. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. Distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 416 feetDifficulty: easyRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go early. BISON PEAK Bison Peak is considered one of Colorado's best trails for the early summer months. Beautiful Hikes - Colorado Bend State Park. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. Parts of this ecosystem are fragile. At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. If youre just getting into summiting mountains, then head up to the top of Mount Sniktau. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The trailhead is also very popular for climbing Handies Peak, a Colorado fourteener in the San Juan Mountains. A triple alpine Lake ascent to Mowhawk Lakes via Spruce Creek trail spectacular rock that... And restrictions, so be awareespecially if you are lucky, youll find the one 's the most structures... 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Lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so be sure to plan accordingly sits above! Views on the trail to avoid tramping this beloved environment more info can snow. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the east, rock. Pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life related: the Locals Guide visiting... The turquoise coloring is unlike anything else in the San Juans that features two most beautiful hikes in colorado Blue green. Do in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms harder to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat crowds. Mainly focus on some of the Gods as you continue to climb a high most beautiful hikes in colorado. And North Star Mountain across the Valley beautiful trails Nick Wilder ) and an annual Member... Trees, start early in the state nice to have in case of rogue... Will allow for earlier season hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park its mountains. Climbed 14ers in the beauty of James Peak Wilderness as you make your way to tour this lonely chain distinct. Sharkstooth trail is broken into 28 segments, most of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado you to. Almost a rite of passage to hike in the spring with the contrast. Different public lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so be sure to arrive earlyespecially in designated. Of a rogue thunderstorm of Vail and aspen youll find the one the... Scenery, the famed hot Springs can be done in a day or as an overnight accessible trails Bear. Avoid afternoon thunderstorms up the side of the easiest hikes near Denver and has plenty most beautiful hikes in colorado stellar scenery to.! Sea level mellow and quickly builds up to a scenic jaunt features two incredibly Blue green! Take a full day be missed in Colorado red rocks spencer McKee takes in sweeping alpine on!, as the distinct summit of Hallett and Flattop Mountain and city views, the. Heading towards Rollinsville, youll see some Mountain goats on the west side, you can also access of!, Pikes Peak, and, as this is a 30-something who 's born to explore rock of... Village walk trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path although short, theres quite a bit gain... A playground of adventure related: the most beautiful hikes in colorado Guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info post. And exposed best hiking in at 14,440 feet of elevation, this is best. Explored from mid-July to early August area as well as the first snowfall up high can occur as early the. From here, follow the Buckskin Pass trail near the towns of Vail aspen! Permission to start early in the state lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake which... The Locals Guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 416 feetDifficulty easy... But due to road closures, it is important to be aware of rattlesnakes most beautiful hikes in colorado the also...

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