The Colorado Trail
Stretching 485 miles from Denver to Durango, the Colorado Trail is a must-do for seasoned hikers. With an elevation gain of 90,000 feet, this trail offers stunning views of eight mountain ranges and five river systems.
The rugged terrain is demanding, and resupply points are few, making this a challenging trek. However, the rewards are unmatched: jaw-dropping vistas and a true sense of wilderness await hikers who take on this iconic trail.
Blue Lakes Trail
If you’re looking for a short but strenuous hike, Blue Lakes Trail near Ridgway delivers incredible rewards. This 8.5-mile round trip takes you past alpine meadows and wildflower blooms to a series of stunning blue lakes.
The uppermost lake offers epic views of the surrounding mountains, making the climb worth the challenge. It’s a hike that promises both beauty and serenity for experienced hikers seeking a visual feast.
Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is famous for its dramatic red rock formations, and the Perkins Central Garden Loop offers an easy yet scenic 3-mile route.
Here, visitors can enjoy impressive views of the iconic red spires, framed by the majestic Rocky Mountains. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a short, accessible hike with amazing photo opportunities.
Hike the Sneffels Highline Trail
For a breathtaking view of Mount Sneffels and the San Juan Mountains, the Sneffels Highline Trail is a must-do. This 14.5-mile trail offers diverse terrain, starting from dense forests to open meadows, and culminates in panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and vibrant autumn colors.
The trail’s beauty peaks in the fall, when golden aspens dot the landscape against the rugged backdrop of Mount Sneffels.
Mohonk Mountain House
For a family-friendly fall adventure, Mohonk Mountain House offers a wide range of activities. The resort features 85 miles of hiking trails, including horse-drawn carriage rides, making it perfect for families with young children.
The surrounding mountains and lush forests come alive with vibrant colors in autumn, making it an ideal spot to reconnect with nature while enjoying outdoor activities. The resort’s cozy atmosphere adds to the charm.
Chasm Lake
Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is a challenging 8-mile hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of an alpine lake beneath Long’s Peak.
The 2,552-foot elevation gain makes this a strenuous trail, but the crystal-clear waters of Chasm Lake and the surrounding towering peaks make it worth the effort. This hike offers a real sense of the rugged beauty of Colorado’s wilderness.
Quandary Peak
For a truly iconic Colorado experience, hike Quandary Peak, one of the state’s 14ers. This 6.3-mile out-and-back trail offers panoramic summit views and frequent sightings of mountain goats.
With a 3,333-foot elevation gain, it’s a challenging but achievable climb for those with some hiking experience. The reward at the summit is a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Buffalo Canyon Trail
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly hike, Buffalo Canyon Trail in Colorado Springs offers a scenic 0.5-mile round trip. Located in North Cheyenne Cañon, it leads to the base of Cascade Falls, offering a peaceful getaway.
The canyon’s beauty, combined with the soothing sounds of rushing water, makes this an ideal short hike for those new to hiking or looking for a quick escape from city life.
Seven Falls
Seven Falls is one of Colorado Springs’ most iconic natural attractions. The 3-mile round trip hike takes you to a stunning 300-foot waterfall, with a series of scenic stops along the way.
The hike is moderately challenging, with a combination of stairs and trail. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy sweeping views of the falls and the surrounding canyon, truly a breathtaking sight for any nature lover.
The Intemann Trail
For a fun and moderate hike, the Intemann Trail Loop in Colorado Springs offers fantastic views of the Garden of the Gods and surrounding areas. This 6-mile loop is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers.
The trail is a great way to experience the beauty of the region in a relatively short time. As you walk, you’ll see unique rock formations and scenic overlooks, making it a memorable outing for all skill levels.
Little Scraggy Peak
The Little Scraggy Peak Loop, a 13-mile moderate hike near Buffalo Creek, provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. This trail is shared with mountain bikers, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Though a bit longer, it’s perfect for those looking to explore the rugged beauty of the area. The route leads you through dense forests and offers sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains—an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts.
Ute Pass Trail
Ute Pass Trail is a 7.5-mile out-and-back hike following a historic Native American route. The trail offers moderate difficulty with a 1,750-foot elevation gain, making it a great choice for hikers looking for a challenge.
The path offers views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, while also connecting you to the rich history of the region. It’s a rewarding hike for both history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Bross-Lincoln Loop
This trail is part of the Mosquito Range in Colorado and takes hikers near both Mount Lincoln and Mount Bross, two of the state’s iconic 14ers. It’s a popular trail for those aiming to summit these peaks.
As you trek through alpine meadows and rugged terrain, the towering peaks will dominate the skyline, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. This challenging hike is not for the faint-hearted, but the stunning vistas and sense of achievement make it worth every step.
Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass, scenic serenity
Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass is a 6.6-mile moderate hike that takes you through alpine lakes and meadows filled with wildflowers. The views of Long’s Peak are impressive, and the chance to see moose makes this trail extra special.
This hike combines picturesque natural beauty with a moderate challenge, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy Colorado’s high country. The serene lake views and surrounding mountains provide the perfect backdrop.
Best time to hike in Colorado
The best time to hike in Colorado is during the summer (June to August) for high-altitude trails, like the famous 14ers, where you can enjoy mild weather and stunning vistas. However, for a more scenic experience, fall (September to October) offers breathtaking views of golden aspen trees against the rugged mountain backdrop.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time for hiking in the Colorado high country. Apart from hiking, check these stunning and scenic Michigan lakeshore drives to take this fall.
Exploring Colorado’s diverse hiking trails
Colorado is home to over 43 state parks, 4 national parks, and countless national forests, making it a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a challenging climb, the state has a trail for every skill level.
From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the peaceful shores of alpine lakes, Colorado’s hiking trails offer something for everyone. These diverse landscapes ensure that every hike is a new and exciting adventure.
Love hiking? Then you need to explore America’s most breathtaking national trails that stretch across mountains, forests, and deserts.
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