Hello hikers, explore the best hikes in Colorado for your next adventure. For the outdoors and adventure seekers, Colorado is a hiking paradise. With breathtaking landscapes from rugged mountains to serene lakes, the state offers trails suitable for hikers of all levels.
Colorado has all kinds of hiking trails, whether you’re looking for a beginner for a leisurely hike or a trail seeking a challenge.
Today, I will give you a complete guide to the 20 best hikes in Colorado, which will enhance your Colorado hiking experience. Are you interested in learning about Colorado hiking trails?
Best Hikes in Colorado→ Beginners
Flatirons Loop (Boulder)
Difficulty
The Flatirons Loop is an easy-to-moderate hike, making it perfect for beginners. Those who want to explore the beauty of Boulder’s iconic rock formations. The trail offers a gentle introduction to hiking without being too strenuous.
Length
The loop spans about 2.5 miles, allowing hikers to experience a satisfying trek in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace and breaks.
Highlights
Enjoy sweeping views of the Front Range and Boulder cityscape as you pass through charming forests and picturesque meadows. The striking rock formations of the Flatirons present excellent photo opportunities.
Peak Season
Spring and fall showcase the best weather, breathtaking wildflowers and colourful foliage. Summer can be hot, but it’s a popular time for hikers.
Permit
No permit is required to hike the Flatirons Loop, making it accessible to all adventurers.
Time
Allocate around 1.5 to 2 hours for this hike, which allows time to soak in the natural beauty and capture memorable photos.
Hanging Lake Trail (Glenwood Springs)
Difficulty
Hanging Lake is the best hikes in Colorado for beginners. This trail is rated as moderate, with some steep sections that require careful navigation. It’s suitable for beginners looking for a challenge.
Length
The hike is 2.4 miles round trip, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and breaks.
Highlights
Hanging Lake is a National Natural Landmark known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls. It’s a breathtaking sight that rewards all who reach it.
Peak Season
Spring and early summer are ideal for hiking this trail, as the waterfalls are fullest, and the surrounding scenery is lush and green.
Permit
A permit is required to access Hanging Lake Trail, which helps preserve its natural beauty. Be sure to reserve in advance.
Time
Plan for 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the trail and explore the lake and its surroundings.
Chautauqua Trail (Boulder)
Difficulty
The Chautauqua Trail is an easy to moderate hike, perfect for beginners looking for scenic views near Boulder.
Length
At just over 1.2 miles, this trail offers a short but rewarding hiking experience, usually taking about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Highlights
Experience the beauty of the Flatirons up close and enjoy panoramic views of Boulder. The trail is dotted with wildflowers and is the perfect place for a peaceful escape from city life.
Peak Season
Spring and fall are the best seasons for hiking.
Permit
No permit is required, and it is open to all.
Time
Expect to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours on the trail, perfect for a morning hike or a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Best Hikes in Colorado→ For Advanced Hikers
Longs Peak (Rocky Mountain National Park)
Difficulty
Long’s Peak is a challenging hike suitable only for experienced hikers. But if you can take the challenge, you can go.
Length
The round trip is approximately 14 miles, requiring a full day of hiking – usually between 10 and 15 hours.
Highlights
Standing at 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is the highest Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, offering breathtaking views and a different sense of accomplishment to those who reach the summit.
Peak Season
Summer is the best time to attempt this hike, as snow and ice make the trail dangerous during other seasons.
Permit
While no specific permit is required, a park entry fee is required. Planning and preparation are essential for this path.
Time
Allocate a whole day for this hike with an early start to avoid afternoon storms and ensure a safe landing.
Mount Elbert (Leadville)
Difficulty
Mount Elbert is the best hikes in Colorado for experience hikers. Mount Elbert is the highest Peak in Colorado and is a tough challenge for experienced hikers due to its height and length.
Length
The hike is about 9 miles round trip, taking 7 to 10 hours to complete, depending on the hiker’s speed.
Highlights
From its summit at 14,440 feet, hikers treat themselves to panoramic views of Colorado’s rugged terrain and endless mountain ranges.
Peak Season
The best time to hike Mount Elbert is from late spring to early fall when the trail is clear of snow and ice.
Permit
No permit is required, but be sure to prepare for high-altitude hiking.
Time
Plan a full-day hike to safely summit and descend, factoring in time for breaks and acclimatization.
Mount of the Holy Cross (Vail)
Difficulty
This route is rated difficult due to its length, elevation gain and various obstacles. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers.
Length
The circular route is approximately 19 kilometres long and takes 8-12 hours.
Highlights
Named for the distinctive cross-shaped snowfield on its east face, Mount of the Holy Cross offers awe-inspiring views and a sense of solitude and wilderness.
Peak Season
Summer to early fall is the best time to hike, as snow can make the trail hazardous during other months.
Permit
No specific permit is needed, but hikers should check trail conditions and plan accordingly.
Time
Expect to spend a whole day on the trail, allowing time for breaks and thoroughly enjoying the scenery.
Best Hikes in Colorado→ Scenic Hikes
Maroon Bells Scenic Loop (Aspen)
Difficulty
Maroon Bells best hikes in Colorado for scenic views. The loop is an easy to moderate hike, perfect for those looking for breathtaking views without strenuous climbing.
Length
You can complete this loop of about 3 miles in 1.5 to 2 hours.
Highlights
Experience the reflective maroon of Maroon Lake and the iconic Twin Peaks. The trail offers excellent views of the mountains and valleys.
Peak Season
Autumn is particularly popular due to the vibrant foliage, but summer also offers stunning landscapes.
Permit
A shuttle reservation is required to access the trailhead during peak season to ensure a quiet hike.
Time
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, with more time to soak in the scenery and capture amazing photos.
Silverton to Ice Lakes Basin (San Juan Mountains)
Difficulty
The trail was rated moderate to difficult, with significant elevation gain and some steep sections.
Length
The round trip is 7.5 miles, taking approximately 4 to 6 hours to complete.
Highlights
Ice Lake Basin is famous for its turquoise lakes, dramatic peaks and an excellent trail full of wildflowers. Which attracts hikers
Peak Season
Summer is the best time to hike, as the lakes are thawed and the flowers bloom.
Permit
No permit is required, but trail conditions should be checked before setting out.
Time
Allow 4 to 6 hours for this tour, taking breaks and enjoying the stunning views.
Royal Arch Trail (Boulder)
Difficulty
It is a moderately challenging hike with steep sections and rugged rocky terrain. Also suitable for those who are new but can take the challenge.
Length
The trail is a 3.5-mile round trip that takes about 2-3 hours.
Highlights
The highlight is the Royal Arch rock formation, which offers panoramic views of Boulder and beyond.
Peak Season
Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and are the best times to hike.
Permit
No permit is required, but the trail is popular.
Time
Allow 2-3 hours for the hike and enjoy the views from the top.
Best Hikes in Colorado→ For Summit Views
Grays and Torreys Peak (Grays Peak Trailhead in Denver)
Difficulty
This trail is very challenging and suitable for those with summit hiking experience.
Length
The hike is about 8 miles round trip, taking 5 to 7 hours to complete.
Highlights
Gray and Torres Peak are two in Colorado that offer gorgeous summit views and a sense of accomplishment for hikers.
Peak Season
Summer is ideal for trekking, as the trail is free of snow and the weather is favourable.
Permit
No permit is needed, but parking can be limited, so early arrival is recommended.
Time
Allocate 5 to 7 hours for this hike, starting early to avoid afternoon storms.
Quandary Peak (Breckenridge)
Difficulty
Quandary Peak is a best hikes in Colorado for Summit. Quandary Peak is a challenging hike, requiring stamina and preparation for altitude.
Length
The round trip is 6.75 miles, typically taking 4 to 7 hours.
Highlights
From its summit at 14,265 feet, hikers enjoy sweeping views of the Tenmile Range and surrounding desert.
Peak Season
Summer to early fall is the best time to hike, as conditions are most favourable.
Permit
No permit is necessary, but preparation for high-altitude hiking is advised.
Time
Plan for 4 to 7 hours, allowing more time for breaks and acclimatization.
Pikes Peak (Colorado Springs)
Difficulty
It is a challenging hike with long distance and elevation gain. But with some time, beginners can also complete it.
Length
The hike is 13 miles one way via the Barr Trail, requiring a whole day to complete.
Highlights
Standing at 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak offers unparalleled views of the Garden of the Gods from its summit and more spectacular views of Colorado Springs.
Peak Season
Summer is the best time to hike, as the trail is clear and accessible.
Permit
No permit is needed, but arrangements for a ride down should be made unless you plan to hike both ways.
Time
Expect to spend a whole day on the trail, ensuring plenty of time for ascent and descent.
Best Colorado Hiking→ Waterfall
Seven Falls (Colorado Springs)
Difficulty
Seven Falls best hikes in Colorado for waterfall. This hike is easy and perfect for families and those seeking a gentle stroll.
Length
The trail is about 1 mile, taking under an hour to complete.
Highlights
Seven Falls is a cascading waterfall with stunning views, accessible via a scenic canyon.
Peak Season
Summer and fall offer the best conditions, with the falls flowing beautifully.
Permit
An entrance fee is required, covering access and shuttle transport.
Time
Plan for about an hour, allowing time to explore the falls and surrounding area.
Fish Creek Falls (Steamboat Springs)
Difficulty
This is an easy-to-moderate hike that is suitable for beginners.
Length
The trail is a 2.5-mile round trip that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Highlights
Fish Creek Falls is a stunning 280-foot waterfall that is a must-see in the Steamboat Springs area.
Peak Season
Spring is the best time to visit, as the falls are at their most beautiful.
Permit
A small day-use fee is required for access.
Time
Allocate 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing time to enjoy the falls and take photos.
North Fork Falls (Wild Basin, RMNP)
Difficulty
It is an easy to moderate hike, suitable for families and all hikers.
Length
The round trip is 2.2 miles, taking about 1 to 2 hours.
Highlights
North Fork Falls offers beautiful cascades and mind-blowing scenery with a serene, scenic setting.
Peak Season
Summer and autumn are the best times for trekking, with pleasant weather and vivid scenery.
Permit
No permits are required, but an entrance fee is required.
Time
Plan for 1 to 2 hours, allowing more time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Best Family Hikes in Colorado
Bear Lake Loop (Rocky Mountain National Park)
Difficulty
Bear Lake trail is a best hikes in Colorado for Family. This is an easy hike, perfect for families and children.
Length
The loop is just 0.6 miles, taking about 30 minutes to complete.
Highlights
Bear Lake offers spectacular mountain and lake views.
Peak Season
Summer is the best time, with warm weather and clear trails.
Permit
No permit is required, but a park entrance fee applies.
Time
Expect to spend around 30 minutes, making it ideal for families with young children.
Coyote Ridge Trail (Fort Collins)
Difficulty
It is an easy trip, very suitable for families and beginners.
Length
The trail is a 3.6-mile round trip that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Highlights
Coyote Ridge offers lovely foothills views and a chance to spot local wildlife such as deer and birds.
Peak Season
Spring and fall are ideal, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Permit
No permit is needed, and the trail is free to access.
Time
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing more time for exploring and wildlife viewing.
Snowmass Lake Trail (Snowmass Village)
Difficulty
This trail is moderate, with some elevation gain, but it’s accessible to families with older children.
Length
The round trip is 8.5 miles, taking about 4 to 6 hours.
Highlights
Snowmass Lake is an alpine lake surrounded by majestic peaks, offering a great destination for families.
Peak Season
Summer is the best time to hike, with clear trails and vibrant wildflowers.
Permit
No permits are required, but planning for a longer hike is essential.
Time
Allocate 4 to 6 hours for a leisurely pace and plenty of time to enjoy the lake.
Best Overnight Hikes in Colorado (Backpacking Trails)
Four Pass Loop (Maroon Bells, Aspen)
Difficulty: Four Pass trail is a best hikes in Colorado for backpacker. The Four Pass Loop is a challenging multi-day hike that takes adventurers through some of Colorado’s most stunning alpine scenery. Suitable for experienced backpackers.
Length: The round trip is 26 miles, taking about 3 to 4 days
Highlights: This epic loop is a backpacker’s dream, taking you across four high mountains and through stunning alpine terrain. Expect wildflowers, glacial lakes and jaw-dropping views. And this route offers an unforgettable experience of Colorado’s rugged beauty.
Peak Season: Summer and early Fall
Permit: Required for camping
Time: 3-4 days
Sky Pond Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park)
Difficulty: Sky Pond is a scenic alpine lake with moderate to challenging hikes.
Length: The round trip is 9 miles, 6-8 hours (if done in a day)
Highlights: A spectacular trail leading to the beautiful Sky Pond surrounded by waterfalls and rocky cliffs. This great backpacking trip can be done in a day or two.
Peak Season: Summer
Permit: No permit is required
Time: 6-8 hours (if done in a day)
Tips for Hiking in Colorado
When hiking in Colorado, preparation and respect for nature are crucial. Here are some essential tips to make your experience better:
• Acclimating to Altitude: Take time to acclimate to Colorado’s high altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
• Stay hydrated: Carry plenty of water and drink regularly, especially during long hikes.
• Check the weather conditions: Mountain weather can change quickly. Always check the weather forecast and be prepared for unexpected changes.
• Pack clothes: Pack clothes to suit the level, and don’t forget to wear sturdy hiking boots. Bring a hat, sunglasses, camera and sunscreen.
• Leave no trace: Stick to designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect nature by avoiding pesky wildlife.
Good luck on your trip to the best hikes in Colorado. If you think I have missed any place, I will be grateful if you let me know. Share your hike experience in Colorado with “Tale of Journey “.
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