The Best Colorado Hikes to Add to Your Bucket List

Last Updated on January 17, 2024 by foxintheforest

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.

Listen, I’ve been on each of these hiking trails several different times. As a Colorado local and writer for the outdoor industry, I’m a total pro at hitting the most amazing hikes in Colorado without the crowds.

It’s my mission to get you out on the best Colorado hiking trails like a local, not a tourist. Inside this guide you’ll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds.

About this Guide to the Best Hikes in Colorado

When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no further, 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.

Map of Colorado Hikes You’ve Got to Check Out

Get oriented with this map of Colorado Hikes. Featuring hiking trails found throughout the state, there’s a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere!

Colorado hikes map
Check out the interactive map to save locations that interest you.

Are Colorado Hikes Crowded?

Listen, this is a list of the best hikes in Colorado, not the least crowded. However, these hikes are crowded for a reason. But if you’re like me and you don’t enjoy hiking with tons of other people, I wanted to put in a nod to how to handle the crowds.

Each hike will have a crowd-level designation. Here’s what it breaks down to if you want a sense of solitude.

  • Not too busy: you will see people, but fewer crowds than the rest of the list.
  • Busy: Does see crowds, but it’s never too overwhelming.
  • Crowded permit: Snag the first timeslot to have the least amount of crowds
  • Crowded: Start before 8 am
  • Extreme crowds: some of the busiest trails on the list. See each trail for a start time.

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. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado and is home to some of the best Colorado wildflowers of them all.

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 up peaks, 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
Crowds: Busy throughout the year. Start by 8 am.

best hiking trails in colorado

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.
Crowds: Not too busy. Climbing sand hills kind of sucks.

hiking trails in colorado

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.
Busy to crowded: If you’re backpacking here, it’s considered crowded.

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.

best hikes in colorado

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.

Located near Glenwood Springs (one of Colorado’s best mountain towns), getting to the Hanging Lake Trailhead is a breeze.

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.

Local Tip: This trail has been undergoing restoration work and will re-open on June 25th, 2022.

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 $12 per-person permit required to hike. No dogs.
Crowds: Busy with permits. I’ve done this multiple times – the 6 am timeslot is best.

Local Tip: Hanging Lake has been experiencing temporary closures due to trail maintenance from the 2021 landslides. Always check on the permit website for the most accurate and up-to-date info!

4 days in colorado

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.
Crowds: Extreme crowds. Honestly, it’s a shame. It’s a lovely hike – super beautiful, but the Insta-hungry, disrespectful visitors make this hike pretty over-rated. We started at 6 am and the parking lot was almost full. Plan to start before dawn if you want to miss the bad behavior.

One of the best things to do in Colorado is go hiking. These are the best hiking trails in Colorado according to a local. Explore the most scenic spots in Colorado along these amazing hikes. This list includes hikes near Denver, Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes National Park and more. Get amazing hiking recommendations for your vacation to Colorado. #hiking #colorado #outdoors

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.
Crowds: Busy to crowded. Start by 8 am.

things to do in Colorado in the summer

Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail

Easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, Maroon Bells is home to some of the best hikes in Aspen.

In fact, there are five different hikes in this area that range in length from 1 to 13 miles (round trip) and that vary in difficulty between easy and moderate.

For the best photo ops though, hike along the 1.9-mile loop trail in fall and come just in time for sunrise to see the real magic of one of the best hikes in Colorado.

If you want you can also do the Aspen to Crested Butte hike while you’re in the area.

Distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 49 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: No dogs are allowed and you’ll need an advanced parking reservation or shuttle reservation when the road to the trailhead is open.
Crowds: Crowded with permits. The reservations make this not-so-bad, but it can be extremely crowded with tourists if you’re here in the middle of the day.

where to go in Colorado

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.

Fountain Valley Trail

Located in Roxborough State Park, this is one of the best easy hikes near Denver that takes you on a fun trek past some of the best scenery in the park.

In fact, this trail is so lovely that is popular among hikers, birders, and cross-country skiers alike.

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.

You’ll also experience medium elevation changes as you ascend the loop and see historic buildings created by Henry S. Persse in the early 1900s.

Distance: 2.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 344 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: It costs $4.00 per person to enter this park and dogs/bikes are not allowed.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. The park does fill up on weekends and wait times are long. Be here by 8 am to avoid crowds.

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
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Be here by 7 am to avoid crowds.

Mount Bierstadt Trail

Located a little over an hour away from Denver, near Silver Plume, Colorado is this amazing trail. It’s a popular, but challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will take you through the gorgeous, Mt Blue Sky (formerly Mt Evans) Wilderness area.

It’s 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).

Local Tip: The road to the trailhead closes every winter, so check conditions before heading out. Typically the trail is snow-free from mid-June through mid-October.

Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation gain: 2,782 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dogs allowed on a leash
Crowds: Extremely crowded. In my opinion, Bierstadt is better than Quandary overall as a 14er, but this peak boarders on over-rated.

beautiful colorado hikes

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
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Visit during the week if you want to avoid crowds.

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.

Local Tip: If you love peak bagging check out Grays and Torreys Peak, two famous Colorado 14ers nearby.

Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,530 feet
Difficulty: moderate/difficult
Red Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly.
Crowds: Busy to crowded. It can be packed at the start of the trail, but most people are just venturing a few hundred yards from their car. If you want some solitude, consider a sunset jaunt.

mount sniktau sunset hike

Chicago Lakes Trail

Chicago Lakes starts off steep and mellows out as it meanders down a valley towards the backside of Mount Blue Sky. 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.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Start by 7 am.

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.
Crowds: Extremely crowded (year-round at this point). This is one of the most crowded trailheads in all of Colorado. Plan a pre-dawn hike if you want a sense of solitude, otherwise this trail is over-rated.

best hiking trails in Colorado

First and Second Flatiron

This is one of the best hikes in Colorado that sits just outside of Boulder – meaning that it is only about a 30-minute drive away from Denver.

As one of the classic Boulder hikes, you’ll get an up-close view of the famous Flatirons. The trail starts mellow and quickly builds up to steep elevation gains. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you.

There’s plenty of parking but if you can’t find a spot in the lot (paid), you can pay to park along any of the neighborhood roads.

Distance: 3.6 miles
Elevation gain: 1,446 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and very crowded. Hike in the morning on a weekday for some solitude.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. I really don’t get the hype for this one, but people love it! Don’t expect to find any solitude here as it’s pretty much always got plenty of people on it.

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 hikes in Buena Vista.

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.
Crowds: Crowded to extremely crowded. There are two ways to get to the top of Elbert, but it’s busy. Start at 3 am if you want some solitude.

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
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Plan a hike before 7 am for some solitude.

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
Crowds: Busy to crowded. Plan an 8 am start.

best hikes in colorado

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.
Crowds: Crowded. Start before 8 am.

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 and enjoy one of the fun things to do in Colorado Springs.

Distance: 3.7 miles
Elevation gain:
416 feet
Difficulty:
easy
Red Tape and Local Tips:
Beat the crowds and go early. Dog-friendly.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Plan for a sunrise walk or visit during the week to avoid the crowds.

One of the best things to do in Colorado is go hiking. These are the best hiking trails in Colorado according to a local. Explore the most scenic spots in Colorado along these amazing hikes. This list includes hikes near Denver, Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes National Park and more. Get amazing hiking recommendations for your vacation to Colorado. #hiking #colorado #outdoors

Seven Bridges Trail

Hike along the seven bridges and check out the beautiful waterfall. You’ll travel along an old railroad route in the heart of the southern foothills. Between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes.

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
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Plan a pre-dawn hike if you want solitude, but honestly it probably isn’t worth the early wake up for this one.

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 – including the famous Emerald Lake 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.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. This is one of the most popular trails in the state and the lake of parking doesn’t stop anyone. If you want any sense of solitude, start by 4:30 am and see a sunrise here. Even still, expect people, but you’ll be hanging out with handfuls instead of hundreds.

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.
Crowds: Crowded. Plan to start your hike by 7 am if you want to avoid crowds.

hikes in rocky mountain national park

Timberline Falls Hike

Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? If so then why not try this stellar out-and-back hike?

Not only is it a popular backpacking route in Colorado, but this hike will take you around 4 hours to complete and will take you past Timberline Falls by way of Glacier Gorge Trail.

And if you’re feeling energetic, you can always do this hike in tandem with several other treks in the area.

Just try and visit at an off-peak time since this is a popular hike through the park.

Distance: 7.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,637 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and it’s $25 to enter the park.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Plan a pre-dawn hike if you want solitude. The Glacier Gorge TH fills up by 3:30 am on weekends in the summer.

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.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Plan a pre-dawn hike if you want solitude. However, if you want to do this, I’d suggest linking the Loch with a few other points of interest in the neighborhood!

Fern Falls via Fern Lake Trailhead

Continue on another one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and attempt this semi-challenging out and back hike.

In total, it should take you just under 2.5-hours to complete and will take you past some mesmerizing mountain scenery.

All in all, this hike is pretty chill, except for the last mile. Because as you make your way to this idyllic waterfall, the incline picks up and can feel really intense.

Also, try and do this trek after a rain so that the waterfall looks rad.

Distance: 5.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 741 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and it’s $25 to enter the park.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Not as bad as other RMNP hikes, but you’ll want a 7 am start at the latest for solitude.

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.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. Start at 3:30 am if you want solitude (and parking). The early start is for parking, the lot will fill, then you’ll be forced to wait for the bus or start at the Bear Lake Trail, which adds quite a bit of mileage.

best hikes in colorado

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.

Local Tip: If you’re into gentle rock climbs, then check out the Longs Peak Cable Route. You’ll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you won’t forget.

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.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. I personally think the Keyhole route is really over-rated (hot take, but I don’t like to scramble peaks in a line of people). If you want solitude, start at 12 am. There will still be people (a lot of climbers on the Diamond start this early), but it won’t be as bad as a 2 am start. We started from the trailhead at 2 am and we were one of the last cars in the lot.

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.

Alberta Falls Hike

Tucked away in Rocky Mountain National Park, the hike to Alberta Falls is an easy, out and back trail that will take you to some stunning falls in the park with incredible views.

If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best.

You can also access one of the best hikes in Colorado from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead and then set off from there.

Distance: 1.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 232 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and it’s $25 to enter the park.
Crowds: Extremely crowded. It’s not worth a pre-dawn start, but if you start by 6 am you’ll avoid most crowds.

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.

Warner Point Nature Trail, Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Located near Montrose Colorado, this 1.5-mile out-and-back trail is a great way to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of Black Canyon of Gunnison.

It’s also a pretty easy hike in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison since there is little elevation change and the path features several stellar views of the surrounding canyon and the river below.

For the best experience, try visiting any time between May and October. Also be aware of the fact that visitors are charged $25 per vehicle, $20 per motorcycle, and $15 per person to enter the park.

Local Tip: If you’re. up for the challenge, hiking to the bottom of the canyon is possible, but you’ll need to check in with the rangers at the visitor center first. The trip takes about 2 hours and has chains to hold for the steep sections.

Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation gain: 406 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Red Tape and Local Tips: no dogs allowed
Crowds: Busy

Devil’s Causeway

This awesome, 6 mile out-and-back trail takes you through the exquisite Flat Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado.

It’s also one of the best hikes in Colorado since it features this super cool, narrow (it’s less than four-feet wide), 50-foot-long land bridge that you’ll need to traverse along the way.

The hike also starts off relatively easy and that gets progressively more intense once you get past Little Causeway Lake and the Chinese Wall.

Distance: 6.0 miles
Elevation gain: 1,637 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Red Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and best used between June and September. This area is also prone to lightning storms so be sure to start your hike early (like 4:00 am early) to avoid them.
Crowds: Busy

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
Crowds: Busy

best winter hiking in colorado

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.
Crowds: Barely busy – the 4×4 road or long mileage keeps people away.

Colorado Trail

Although it’s not technically a day hike, you can’t mention the best hiking in Colorado without mentioning the Colorado Trail and Kenosha Pass. 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

Crowds: Varies GREATLY. Anything that’s near the Front Range is busy to crowded. Most of the trail is at least busy, especially anything within day-tripping range.

best places to hike in colorado

Best Hikes in Colorado FAQ

What is the Prettiest Hike in Colorado?

While it’s difficult to choose one, the prettiest hike in Colorado is probably the hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Not only is it one of the most famous hikes in the state, but it’s also moderately difficult and suitable for families who are trying to get used to the altitude. It’s also only 3.2 miles long and takes you past some gorgeous alpine lakes.

What Town in Colorado has the Best Hiking?

It’s hard to select just one town in Colorado with the best hiking. However, top towns in Colorado for hiking include:

What are the Best Hiking Months in Colorado?

The best hiking months in Colorado are from June through late September when most of the best hikes in Colorado are devoid of snow.

Plus, many of the state’s most scenic byways, like Mount Evans Scenic Byway, are open so you can definitely go for a lovely drive either before or after your hike and enjoy the best Colorado summer vacation.

Is Hiking in Colorado Free?

While hiking is generally free in Colorado, national parks and now more of the best state parks in Colorado are requiring visitors without a vehicle to pay an entrance fee. Boulder also has a pay-to-park requirement for all of their open space parks. A few hikes outside of these zones (most notably the Maroon Bells and Hanging Lake) require paid permits to access.

Therefore, hikers now have to pay $10 to enter 36 state parks in Colorado including Staunton, Roxborough, Golden Gate Canyon, and Saint Vrain. However, if you’ve got a Colorado license plate from 2023 onwards and you opted into the Colorado State Parks Pass, your entry is free.

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:

What to wear:

  • Sunshirt
  • Noncotton socks
  • Hiking footwear with good traction that you are comfortable wearing all day. 
  • Non-cotton shorts for hiking
  • Or non-cotton, pants for hiking. Convertible pants are great too!
  • Non-cotton shirt for hiking

What to bring:

amazing hiking in colorado

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. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, you’ll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself.

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:

One of the best things to do in Colorado is go hiking. These are the best hiking trails in Colorado according to a local. Explore the most scenic spots in Colorado along these amazing hikes. This list includes hikes near Denver, Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes National Park and more. Get amazing hiking recommendations for your vacation to Colorado. #hiking #colorado #outdoors
One of the best things to do in Colorado is go hiking. These are the best hiking trails in Colorado according to a local. Explore the most scenic spots in Colorado along these amazing hikes. This list includes hikes near Denver, Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes National Park and more. Get amazing hiking recommendations for your vacation to Colorado. #hiking #colorado #outdoors

Meg Atteberry
Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

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Meg Atteberry standing on a mountain sticking her tongue out

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.