Colorado is a premier travel destination in the United States for outdoor recreation and jaw-dropping natural scenery. It attracts hikers of all experience levels eager to explore the pristine mountains and wilderness areas. Regardless of age or ability, there’s a hike for everyone to witness Colorado’s captivating landscapes firsthand.
These are the Colorado hikes worth your time:
Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail
Are you prepared to test your physical abilities? The 13-mile trek to the summit of Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail is a serious undertaking. Visit Colorado Springs calls this an advanced hike, as it gains around 7,400 feet in elevation.
Plan to leave your Airbnb early to start the hike so you arrive at the summit before the afternoon thunderstorms roll in. Consider having someone pick you up at the top of Pikes Peak or taking the Cog Railway down to avoid the extra 13 miles back to your car.
West Maroon Pass
West Maroon Pass is a popular hiking route from Crested Butte to Aspen. The nearly 8-mile-long journey shines in the summer months when wildflowers bloom alongside the trail. While it begins as a relatively moderate hike, Travel Crested Butte calls the last mile strenuous.
The West Maroon Pass trail is ideal for experienced hikers. Since it steadily gains elevation, prepare for near-constant exertion. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera for an unforgettable time.
Royal Arch
Royal Arch is a must-try hike in Boulder, Colorado, for beautiful views of the city and the Flatiron rock formations. The out-and-back trail is about three miles long and accessible from the Chautauqua Trailhead.
This classic hiking trail is relatively challenging and popular among locals and tourists. At the endpoint, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning natural rock arch framing the surrounding environment. Pack a cooler with snacks and water for a much-deserved break following the hike.
Emerald Lake
Lace your sneakers and add Emerald Lake to your Rocky Mountain National Park itinerary. Departing from Bear Lake Trailhead, the hike is roughly four miles roundtrip. You’ll pass Nymph and Dream Lakes before arriving at your final destination.
Emerald Lake is an incredibly scenic spot that attracts many hikers. Try to start your hike in the morning, as the trail becomes crowded by tourists in the afternoon. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while admiring the jagged mountain peaks and rolling forests framing Emerald Lake.
Bridal Veil Falls
Head to Telluride to witness Colorado’s tallest waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls. The waterfall towers 365 feet in the air, creating a postcard-worthy scene. Bridal Veil Falls becomes a premier ice-climbing destination when it freezes over in winter.
The trail to Bridal Veil Falls is relatively moderate, covering two miles. There are less than 1,000 feet in elevation gain, making it appropriate for beginner and experienced hikers. Biking is also permitted on the Bridal Veil Falls trail if you prefer to cycle.
Mirror and Crater Lakes via Cascade Creek Trail
Explore the Arapaho National Forest during your hike to Mirror and Crater Lakes. At almost 15 miles out and back, the Cascade Creek Trail is an excellent option for a long day hike or overnight backpacking trip. It meanders through the forest before reaching alpine meadows and ponds.
The lakes sit beneath Lone Eagle Peak, a dramatic mountain rising overhead. Bring your fishing pole and cast some lines before camping by the lake. Hiking here is the perfect introduction to Colorado’s rugged landscapes.
Blue Lakes Trail
Blue Lakes Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Colorado. The almost 9-mile-long route highlights three incredibly vibrant blue lakes. Though this trail is challenging, gaining over 2,500 feet of elevation, the views are worth the effort.
Expect many fellow hikers on the trail to Blue Lakes. Beginning in the town of Ridgway, the hike leads into the Mount Sneffels wilderness area. Look out for Blue Lakes Hut, a charming rest area that hikers can reserve for an overnight stay.
Mount Elbert
Conquer Mount Elbert, Colorado’s tallest peak, during your next vacation. 14ers.com gives the hike a Class 1 difficulty rating on a scale from 1-5, with five being the most technical. It’s an accessible option for those eager to summit their first mountain over 14,000 feet.
The most popular route follows the northeast ridge, crossing portions of the Colorado Trail. Above 13,000 feet, the Mount Elbert trail becomes steeper and more challenging. However, the overall experience is fun and rewarding.
Crystal Mill
Crystal Mill is an instantly recognizable Colorado landmark. While driving to the trailhead, you’ll spot the old abandoned mining town of Gothic. Once parked near the South Park Crystal River, hikers continue down a rough 4-wheeling road.
The Crystal Mill hike follows the river for about three and a half miles, passing water features and aspen groves. Upon reaching the mill, you’ll be enchanted by its historic beauty and charm. This trail is a top pick for fall when the aspens boast gorgeous yellow and orange hues.
Hanging Lake
If you stay in Glenwood Springs, take a day trip to Hanging Lake. The breathtaking 1.2-mile-long trail takes hikers through the rocky Glenwood Canyon terrain. Along the ascent, prepare to gain 1,200 feet in elevation.
Due to the lake’s fragile ecosystem, reservations are required. A limited number are available weekly, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to see the waterfalls that flow into Hanging Lake without damaging the environment.
Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail
Set off on the Glacier Gorge Trail toward Sky Pond for some of Rocky Mountain National Park’s most awe-inspiring scenery. Hikers begin at Glacier Gorge Trailhead, traveling more than four miles into the glacial landscape.
You’ll pass a series of waterfalls and lakes along the route to Sky Pond. After reaching the pond, treat yourself to a rest and savor the mountain views. Though summer is the most popular time to hike Sky Pond, it’s also accessible in winter with the proper technical gear.
Manitou Incline
The Manitou Incline is a deceptively grueling hike in the quaint town of Manitou Springs. Despite being under one mile to the top, it’s known for being physically exhausting. This trail ascends 2,744 steps in one interrupted push.
Manitou Springs calls the Incline an extreme challenge for its steep grades and over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Once at the top of the Manitou Incline, athletes must hike three miles along the Barr Trail to return to the starting point.
Alberta Falls
Alberta Falls is a family-friendly adventure in the Rocky Mountains. The easy trail is ideal for children, seniors, and those with mobility concerns at just over one mile. Hikers of all abilities can tackle this gentle hike.
You’ll gain less than 200 feet in elevation while hiking to Alberta Falls. Given its popularity, the path is straightforward to navigate. The falls tumble 30 feet into Glacier Creek, and the surrounding rock ledges are perfect for a picnic.
Mount Bierstadt
While Mount Bierstadt requires some effort to summit, its sweeping views justify the work. You can reach the peak along a roughly 7-mile-long trail near Guanella Pass. Since there are few technical spots during the hike, Mount Bierstadt is a popular first 14er for many.
You can enjoy unobstructed views of the Mount Evans Wilderness from the summit. Keep an eye out for moose and mountain goats as you hike. Consider a winter ascent if you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge.
Siamese Twins Loop Trail
Marvel at distinctive red rock formations on the Siamese Twins Loop Trail. Located in Garden of the Gods, this 0.5-mile trek is an easy pitstop while driving through the area. The trail is fantastic for families with young children or dogs.
You’ll have idyllic views during your hike to the Siamese Twins. Once you reach the twin rocks, photograph Pikes Peak through their naturally-formed window. There are many opportunities to snap family pictures and create lasting memories at this Garden of the Gods hike.
Get in touch with your wild side at the country’s top national parks
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Camping is the perfect excuse to make lifelong memories with loved ones
Nothing beats trading stories by the campfire and sleeping under the stars. Consider a budget-friendly camping trip for your next family vacation.
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
