After living in Colorado for over 12 years, I’ve scoured the landscape to find the best hikes in Colorado. From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado.
This ultimate guide to the best hikes in Colorado gives you an array of local hiking recommendations for all abilities. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker.
About this Guide to the Best Hikes in Colorado
When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no futher, you’ve arrived. I’ve done all the leg work for you, hiking each of these trails over the years to bring you the real stand-out scenery in the Centennial State. This guide includes:
- A list of amazing hikes in Colorado, organized by the most iconic hikes and location.
- Information on distance, elevation gain, location, difficulty, permit requirements, and dog-friendliness.
- Local tips on how to hike in Colorado like a pro
- The best time of year to hike in Colorado.
- A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike.
- Additional resources for planning a hiking trip to Colorado.
The Most Scenic Hikes in Colorado
Colorado is a hiking mecca that’s filled with unbelievably beautiful trails. This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Everybody knows about them, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t check them out.
I’ve spent a lot of time on these trails without a soul in sight. The trick? Go for sunrise. Plan to get to the final destination by sunrise to beat the crowds and be treated to some breathtaking scenery
Mayflower Gulch
This is my favorite place to take out-of-town visitors on a scenic jaunt. The low mileage and incredibly dramatic scenery make for a great hike. Afterward, check out the sights in nearby Dillon, Frisco, and Breckenridge.
Pro Tip: If you’re into hiking Colorado 13ers, this trailhead offers access to some of the best 13ers in Colorado.
Distance: 2.6 miles
Elevation gain: 1,141 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly
Star Dune in Great Sand Dunes National Park
The Great Sand Dunes rise almost randomly out of the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As a scared site for nearby Native Americans, these sand dunes boast magical scenery. Star Dune is the largest of them all.
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 629 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: This isn’t so much of a trail, as it is walking up a steep, squishy sand hill – hence the difficulty. This trail is dog-friendly, but dogs are not allowed past this point.
South Colony Lakes
South Colony lakes holds a special place in my heart. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorado’s most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. Most people opt to backpack this trail since you’ll find it hard to leave.
Distance: 8.9 miles
Elevation gain: 2,286 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: This trail mostly follows a road and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to reach the upper trailhead.
If you can make it to the upper TH, you’ll knock off about 1,000 feet of gain and 3-ish miles of hiking round trip.
Keep in mind wag bags are required here. If you aren’t cozy pooping in a bag and packing it out, stay home.
Hanging Lake
As one of the topmost scenic hikes in Colorado, Hanging Lake is on everyone’s to-do list. There’s a good reason for it: Hanging Lake LOOKS like a place where fairies and gnomes would live.
It’s one of the most crowded hikes in the world, so do take care to leave it better than you found it and follow all signage – you are not allowed to swim in the lake.
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 1,135 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go for sunrise. There’s a $10 permit required to hike. No dogs.
Ice Lake in the San Juan Mountains
The unbelievable electric blue waters of Ice Lake make this one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado.
Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. A personal favorite of mine, this trail is well worth the effort.
Distance: 8.1 miles
Elevation gain: 3,093 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: This is a well-known spot. Opt to get their early or make it an overnight to get more time.
Cascade Creek to Mirror Lake
One of the best hikes in Colorado is the iconic Mirror Lake. Head up early to catch a perfect reflection of the stunning Lone Eagle Peak on Mirror Lake. The trail to the lake isn’t particularly difficult, but it is long.
Distance: 14.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,375 feet
Difficulty: moderate/difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Permits are required for an overnight.
Hiking Trails Near Denver
There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. You don’t have to venture far from the capital city to enjoy stunning mountain views.
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Devil’s Head Lookout
For killer views of eastern Colorado, Pike’s Peak, and the Rocky Mountains check out Devil’s Head Lookout. This moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch. It’s almost a rite of passage to hike this iconic hiking trail in Colorado.
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 885 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly
Alderfer Three Sisters Trail
If you’re looking for an easy trail with great mountain and city views, check out Alderfer Three Sisters Trail. It’s one of the easiest hikes near Denver and has plenty of stellar scenery to boot.
Distance: 6.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Difficulty: easy/moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly
Related: The Beginner’s Guide to Hiking Safely
Mount Sniktau
If you’re just getting into summiting mountains, then head up to the top of Mount Sniktau. Even seasoned mountain hikers will love the glorious views. Sniktau is one of the best sunset hikes in Colorado.
Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,530 feet
Difficulty: moderate/difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly.
Chicago Lakes Trail
Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Evans. When it comes to hikes in Colorado, Chicago Lakes delivers on varied scenery.
Combine this hike with one of the most scenic drives near Denver for an epic day outside.
Distance: 8.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,860 feet
Difficulty: moderate/difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly.
Herman Gulch
Herman Gulch is one of the most accessible high alpine hiking trails in Colorado. This trail offers amazing hiking year-round (psst, it’s one of my favorite Colorado winter hikes). One of the best times to go is for the July wildflower bloom.
Distance: 6.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,755 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Don’t pick or prance around in the wildflowers. Enjoy the scenery from the trail to avoid tramping this beloved environment. Dog-friendly.
Hiking the Sawatch Range
There’s something iconic about the sprawling Sawatch Range. It’s quintessentially Colorado and home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the state.
Best enjoyed in the summer and fall, hiking in the Sawatch should be on everyone’s to-do list.
Mt Elbert North Trail
Hike to the top of Colorado with this tough hike. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. As one of the best hikes in Colorado, it’s worth the effort to be the tallest thing around!
Distance: 10.3 miles
Elevation gain: 4,442 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: Start early (like 4 am early) to beat afternoon thunderstorms. See my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info.
Interlaken Trail
For an easy, mellow hike, head to the Interlaken Trail. Featuring stunning views of the iconic Twin Lakes, this must-do Colorado hiking trail is perfect for newbie hikers and families alike.
Distance: 4.6 miles
Elevation gain: 213 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly
Ptarmigan Lake
Beat the crowds and head to the beautiful Ptarmigan Lake. This is one of the best fall hikes in Colorado that doesn’t get smashed with people. The beautiful scenery passes by a few small lakes and ponds before the final push to Ptarmigan Lake.
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation gain: 1,469 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly
Trails Near Colorado Springs
With sandstone monoliths, tall peaks, and steep canyons, there’s a lot to get exciting about when it comes to hiking in Colorado Springs. Here are a few must-do hikes in the area.
Sand Canyon Mesa
Sand Canyon Mesa is one of the closest hiking trails to Colorado Springs. Thanks to its strategic location, it’s suitable for year-round hiking.
There are plenty of options to expand or shrink your route. Enjoy beautiful red rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape.
Distance: 5.1 miles
Elevation gain: 885 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly.
Garden of the Gods Loop
Hiking at Garden of the Gods is one of the top-rated things to do in Colorado. These stunning sandstone monoliths inspire the imagination.
Most trails are suitable for beginners, and there are even paved trails for accessible hiking. As one of Colorado’s best hiking destinations, you’ve got to scope out the Garden of the Gods.
Distance: 3.7 miles
Elevation gain: 416 feet
Difficulty: easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go early. Dog-friendly.
Seven Bridges Trail
Hike along the seven bridges and check out the beautiful waterfall. Although short, there’s quite a bit of gain on this hike, making it moderate in difficulty.
Distance: 3.7 miles
Elevation gain: 1,033 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly
Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to world-class hiking trails. Although there is plenty to do in Rocky Mountain NP, hiking is at the top of the list.
Related: The Local’s Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.
Dream Lake, Nymph Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Haiyaha
For a mellow introduction to hiking in the park, hit up the 4 iconic alpine lakes along this famous hiking trail. In fact, this is one of the best lake hikes in Colorado and hiking Lake Haiyaha is a real treat for winter.
Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 864
Difficulty: easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: This trail gets crowded and if you can’t park in the Bear Lake Lot, you’ll be taking the bus in. Arrive at the TH before 7 am. No dogs. It’s $25 to enter the park.
Gem Lake via Lumpy Ridge
Just outside of the main area of Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll find the Lumpy Ridge area.
Made famous as being one of the best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this area is also home to some amazing hikes. Check out the famous Gem Lake for stunning views of strange rock pinnacles and mountain vistas.
Distance: 3.1
Elevation Gain: 990
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. It’s free.
Loch Lake Hike
The hike to Loch Lake is quite stunning, and a must-visit for any moderate hiker. The trail varies in terrain, going from forested canyons to eye-opening alpine vistas. You can even continue on to the famous Sky Pond.
Distance: 5.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,072
Difficulty: moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. It’s $25 to enter the park.
Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail
Nearly every hiker who visits Rocky takes on the challenge of reaching Sky Pond. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Living up to its namesake, this beautiful alpine lake hosts an array of skyscraping rock formations that seem to defy gravity.
Distance: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,870
Difficulty: Difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: This hike becomes impassible in winter due to avalanche terrain and steep ice. No dogs. It’s $25 to enter the park.
Longs Peak
The Keyhole Route on Longs Peak is an iconic mountain climb that many people strive for. It’s rugged and long and is only hike on this list that requires a helmet.
Don’t attempt Longs Peak unless you are an experienced mountain hiker who isn’t afraid of exposure to steep drops and knows a thing or two about scrambling.
Distance: 14.5 miles
Elevation gain: 4,911 feet
Difficulty: extremely difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. Prepare properly for scrambling a Colorado 14er and understand the risks you are getting into.
People die or get rescued off of this mountain every year for biting off more than they can chew. Helmet required. Start no later than 2 am. No dogs.
Hikes on the Western Slope
There’s a saying in Colorado that goes “west slope best slope.” This area of the state isn’t as easy to access compared to other hiking areas closer to Denver. However, there’s plenty to see here.
Devil’s Canyon
I actually bumped into Devil’s Canyon by accident, but I’m glad I found this diamond in the rough. The canyon itself features gorgeous sandstone formations and plenty of beautiful scenery. Seeing it dusted in snow is a true treat.
Distance: 6.7 miles
Elevation gain: 764 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly
Rattlesnake Arches
I love to escape to the red sandstone canyons outside of Fruita, Colorado every winter. Rattlesnake Arches is a varied challenge that can be done in a day by an avid hiker.
It’s also one of the best Colorado backpacking trips too! At the end of the long haul, you’re greeted with awe-inspiring sandstone arches and deep canyons that rival some of the best scenery in both Arches National Park and the Grand Canyon.
Distance: 14 miles
Elevation gain: 2,444 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: Some scrambling required, but nothing too strenuous. Dog-friendly.
Colorado Trail
Although it’s not technically a day hike, you can’t mention the best hiking in Colorado without mentioning the Colorado Trail. This 486-mile trail stretches from Denver to Durango and is the highest thru-hike in America.
The trail is broken into 28 segments, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight.
The entire trail takes around 1 month to complete as a thru-hike. Keep in mind, you’ll need to shuttle cars from point A to point B if you’re section hiking. Most segments fall within the moderate to upper end of difficult. Some notable segments are:
- Segment 1 near Denver (no dogs allowed)
- Segment 6 over Kenosha Pass
- Segment 7 in the Tenmile Range
- Segment 11 at the Mount Massive Trailhead
- Segment 24 at Stony Pass
- Segment 25 at Molas Pass
The Best Time to Hike in Colorado
When it comes to hiking in Colorado, there are year-round options. The best season for hiking is from late June until late September. The trails tend to be snow-free and the roads are open.
However, if you plan on adventuring above the trees, start early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. a good rule of thumb is to be below treeline by noon.
However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. There’s also a serious avalanche risk, so be sure to understand the fundamentals of winter hiking before heading out.
What to Bring on a Colorado Hike
Don’t get caught unprepared, here’s what you should bring on every Colorado hike:
- The 10 Essentials
- Plenty of extra water and snacks
- Extra sun protection
- Rain jacket
- Fleece layer or puffy jacket
- Hiking poles (optional: see if you need hiking poles)
- Non-cotton clothing. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer.
- Sturdy, comfortable footwear
- A small baggie to pack out trash such as fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper, and other waste.
- Dog poop bags to carry out dog poop. Carry your poop with you by strapping it to your bag, or leave your dog at home. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail – even if you are planning to pick it up later.
- A camera
Tips for Hiking in Colorado
Before you head out on any Colorado hike, keep these tips in mind:
- Start early! Afternoon thunderstorms are dangerous and kill hikers each year.
- Acclimatize properly. Hiking at altitude is tough work. Plan on resting more and drinking water often.
- Follow Leave No Trace and pick up after yourself (bonus points if you pick up other’s waste too!).
- Don’t poop above treeline. Waste does not break down this high up. Carry a wag bag and pack your poop out or stay below the trees!
- Check and double-check the weather. Storms come in quickly and the weather changes on a dime here. Always understand that the weather generally comes from the west, and keep an eye on storms.
Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. How many trails have you hiked? Let me know!
Planning a trip to Colorado? Check out these kick-ass resources:
- The only 4-day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need
- Where to Camp in Colorado
- Tips for Visiting Colorado
- Fantastic hot springs in Colorado
- The most scenic drives in Colorado
