Looking for the best hikes in Colorado?
Hiking in Colorado is an extraordinary experience. Colorado’s hiking trails go through diverse landscapes and through a variety of unique geological landforms.
Visitors can have a variety of outdoor adventures in the majestic Rocky Mountains or learn about ancient cultures on the trails at Mesa Verde National Park. Explore alpine lakes and meadows, squeeze yourself through the canyons, or challenge yourself in the national forests on the best hikes in Colorado.
From its steep mountain peaks to the crystal clear alpine lakes and sun-dappled trails, Colorado offers amazing outdoor activities for nature-lovers. See abundant wildlife, chase waterfalls, and discover fossils on the best hikes in Colorado.
Also Read: 20 Best Fall Hikes in Colorado
Best Hikes in Colorado
Colorado is calling!
Known for its spectacular views, Colorado is often referred to as one of the most beautiful places in the United States.
The stunning landscape offers hikers a wide variety of stunning trails to explore.
From grand scenic drives up majestic mountains, to vast rolling meadows scattered with wildflowers, these trails wind through some of the most stunning locations in the state.
Here are the best hikes in Colorado for an awe-inspiring adventure!
Also Read: 18 Best Winter Hikes in Colorado
Perkins Central Garden Loop, Garden of the Gods
Perkins Central Garden Trail is one of the best hiking trails in the Centennial State.
Located in Garden of the Gods Park, it offers easy access to the most distinctive and iconic rock formations in the park.
The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that is packed with awe-inspiring views of the park’s most popular red rock formations.
The trail is paved and relatively flat – an easily one of the top Garden of Gods hikes.
It is a great choice for families and those seeking a leisurely walk in the midst of the park’s stunning natural splendor.
From the trail, you can see the towering Balanced Rock, the Kissing Camels, and the Cathedral Spires.
As you meander along the trail, take time to appreciate the distinct, reddish hue of the rocks – a unique feature that makes the Garden of the Gods a photographer’s paradise.
The loop takes around an hour to complete at a casual pace, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the geological wonders.
Garden of the Gods can be easily visited as a day trip from downtown Colorado Springs.
Also Read: 12 Best Things to do at the Garden of the Gods in winter
Bear Lake Trailhead, Rocky Mountain National Park
If you’re looking for a classic Colorado hiking experience, Bear Lake Trailhead is the perfect location.
The trail follows an easy three-mile loop around the lake and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and crystal clear blue waters.
The hike itself is not too strenuous, but it does gain some elevation.
The trail is surrounded by wildflowers, aspens, and evergreens – a truly spectacular sight!
Along the way, hikers can spot an abundance of wildlife such as elk, moose, deer, and marmots.
The Bear Lake Trailhead is one of the most popular hikes in Colorado and it’s not hard to see why.
Alberta Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park
Alberta Falls is another standout trail located in the heart of the Rocky Mountain National Park.
It’s a popular hiking destination that takes visitors to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park.
The trail is about 1.6 miles round-trip, starting from the Glacier Gorge trailhead and leading hikers through lush forests to the stunning 30-foot waterfall.
The hike is considered relatively easy, making it a fantastic choice for families and novice hikers.
The trail is well-marked and heavily trafficked, offering breathtaking views of aspen trees, roaring creek, and surrounding peaks.
The fall’s cascading waters create a spectacular scene that is particularly arresting during the late spring and early summer when the snowmelt swells its flow.
The Alberta Falls trail is a must-visit hike in Colorado for any outdoor enthusiast exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park.
Also Read: 17 Best Waterfall Hikes in Colorado
Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
Emerald Lake Hiking trail is another incredible trail in Colorado’s most famous national park.
It is situated within the Bear Lake Road Corridor, just off of Trail Ridge Road.
The hike is relatively short at only 2.2 miles round-trip, however, it offers a stunning perspective on Rocky Mountain National Park’s natural beauty and wildlife.
The trail takes hikers to Emerald Lake, which resides in an alpine basin surrounded by majestic mountains, pine forests, and varied wildlife.
The trail is rated as easy to moderate and offers a leisurely yet rewarding journey.
Along the way, you’ll come across wildflowers, alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and perhaps even some elk or deer!
Petroglyph Point Trail, Mesa Verde National Park
Petroglyph Point Trail is a lesser-known gem located in Mesa Verde National Park.
This 2.6-mile round trip trail takes visitors on an educational and scenic journey through the ancient ruins of the Ancestral Puebloans.
The trail follows a moderate grade, starting at the Spruce Treehouse Overlook and winding up to the base of a canyon wall.
Then it goes up to the large petroglyph panel and then back with a hard rock scramble at the end.
You’ll encounter stunning overlooks, meandering creeks, and petroglyphs carved by the Ancestral Puebloans hundreds of years ago.
The trail is a great way to explore Mesa Verde National Park’s ancient history, as well as its incredible natural beauty.
Also Read: 14 Best Hiking Trails in Mesa Verde National Park
Balcony House, Mesa Verde National Park
While not like your typical hikes in Colorado, this guided tour is exciting and worth including in this roundup.
Balcony House is a must-visit cliff dwelling residing in the captivating Mesa Verde National Park.
Dating back to the 13th century, visiting this site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and gain an intimate glimpse into the lives of the ancient Ancestral Puebloans.
The house is comprised of 40 rooms and two kivas, built into a deep alcove facing the canyon.
The trail to Balcony House is a 1-mile round trip, but it is not your typical walk in the park.
It is rated as strenuous, and it’s not hard to see why – the route includes climbing a 32-foot ladder, crawling through a 12-foot-long tunnel, and then scaling the open cliff face with stone steps and two 10-foot ladders.
This thrilling journey offers an adventurous spirit of exploration, making it much more than a typical hiking experience.
The entire tour is ranger-guided and takes approximately one hour, with plenty of time to appreciate the architectural ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloan people.
The Balcony House offers both a physical challenge and a fascinating look into the past, making it a compelling stop for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Be sure to pack plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared for a truly unforgettable experience.
High Dune Trail, Great Sand Dunes National Park
The High Dune Trail, located in Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, is a must-visit to experience the magnificence of Colorado’s sand dunes.
The trail is 2.4 miles round trip.
It offers spectacular views of the tallest sand dunes in North America as well as the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Along the way, you’ll spot an array of wildlife in this unique environment such as bison, elk, mule deer, and coyotes.
The High Dune Trail is a great introduction to the park’s outstanding natural beauty for adventurers of all ages and experience levels.
The hike itself is considered moderate and provides a unique perspective on the park.
Timberline Falls, RMNP
Timberline Falls is a popular trail located in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park.
It’s a 4-mile out and back hike that takes you to one of the park’s most iconic waterfalls.
The falls plunge 300 feet over an impressive granite wall and offer stunning views of the surrounding alpine terrain.
The trail is rated as moderate and gains over 600 feet of elevation.
Along the way, hikers will be treated to views of lush meadows, cascading streams, and colorful wildflowers.
The summit offers plenty of photo opportunities – with spectacular panoramas of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Sky Pond Trail, RMNP
Also in the Glacier Gorge area of RMNP, you will find the Sky Pond Trail.
The almost 9 miles round trip hike begins at the Glacier Gorge trailhead and is famous for its lakes, waterfalls, and views of mountain peaks.
The trailhead is easy to find and well-marked, but the hike itself is quite challenging.
It takes you through pine forests, passes alpine lakes (including The Loch), and offers views of magnificent mountain peaks such as Taylor Peak, Powell Peak, Parry Peak, McHenry’s Peak and more.
Take a break at the stunning Sky Pond and marvel at the cascading waterfalls around you.
The hike takes around 7-8 hours, so make sure to bring plenty of food and water for a full day of hiking in this incredible environment.
The Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge trail should be attempted by experienced hikers because of its distance, scramble towards the end, and high elevations.
Royal Arch Trail, Boulder
The Royal Arch Trail in Boulder, Colorado is a great hike for those looking for an easy to moderate trail.
The trailhead can be found at Chautauqua Park and the round-trip distance is 3.4 miles.
It’s a moderately easy hike, but don’t underestimate it; it offers stunning views of the historic Chautauqua park and the Flatirons.
As you make your way up to Royal Arch, you’ll pass a few different waterfalls.
The trail is surrounded by lush forests, granite slabs, and amazing cliffs with stunning views of Boulder and the surrounding area.
The hike culminates at the magnificent Royal Arch itself – an iconic piece of rock that is a must-see in Boulder.
Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and soak up the breathtaking sights!
Hanging Lake trail, Glenwood Springs
Hanging Lake Trail is a truly exceptional hiking destination located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
This is an awe-inspiring 3-mile round trip trail that takes you through a canyon to a valley, ending at the enchanting Hanging Lake.
As the trail is quite steep and rocky, it is considered moderate to difficult.
The path winds up along Dead Horse Creek and leads to a boardwalk circling the fragile lake ecosystem.
The trail is marked by lush vegetation, vibrant wildflowers, and cascading waterfalls, all contributing to a mesmerizing scenic environment.
The real gem is the remarkable Hanging Lake itself – a cliffside lake known for its clear, turquoise water and the distinctive travertine formations lining its shore.
The trail has an elevation gain of 1,186 feet.
The rewards for completing this rocky trail are worth the effort!
The Hanging Lake Trail hike is particularly renowned for the Spouting Rock – a large waterfall that forcefully gushes out from a hole in the limestone cliff behind the lake.
Please note that due to the trail’s popularity and to protect the fragile ecosystem, permits are required to hike the Hanging Lake Trail.
Bridal Veil Falls Trail, Telluride
Bridal Veil Falls Trail in Telluride is one of the best Colorado hikes for families with older kids.
The trail offers a beautiful journey to one of the remarkable waterfalls in the area.
It is about 4 miles round trip and takes visitors through gorgeous meadows, aspen forests, and lush valleys.
It has an elevation gain of over 1300 feet.
Along the way you’ll discover plenty of wildflowers, wildlife, and breathtaking views of surrounding peaks.
The impressive finale is the 365-foot Bridal Veil Falls – a spectacular waterfall that plunges down from a steep cliff into a small alpine lake below.
The trail culminates at an observation deck with stunning views of the falls.
Bridal Veil Falls Trail is one of Colorado’s gems and a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable and easy hike.
Bear Creek Falls Hike, Telluride
The Bear Creek Hiking Trail in Telluride is a relatively strenuous hike but offers some of the best sights and views in the area.
The 4.6 miles round trip trail begins at Bear Creek Vista and winds through aspen stands, meadows, pine forests, and canyons.
The trail has an elevation gain of 1,050 feet.
It offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and elk along the way.
As you make your way up, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of Telluride’s ski area, a few picturesque alpine lakes, and even 14,000-foot peaks in the distance.
This scenic hike has stunning views of the surrounding San Juan mountain ranges.
The highlight is Bear Creek Falls – a beautiful 70 foot waterfall that cascades down from an enormous cliff into a lush canyon below.
Warner Point Nature trail
In the remote reaches of Western Colorado, you will find Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Among the park’s vast wilderness along the South Rim, you will find the Warner Point Nature trail – an easy and rewarding 1.6 mile round trip trail.
The trail takes visitors through a rocky landscape full of diverse wildlife, wildflowers, and unparalleled views of the Gunnison River far below.
It culminates at the aptly named Warner Point overlook where visitors can take in the spectacular views of the canyon and its surrounding peaks.
The Warner Point Nature Trail is a great hike for those looking for an easy, but rewarding and beautiful experience.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot some bighorn sheep along the way!
Make sure to bring your camera to capture these magnificent sights.
Fossil Discovery Trail, Dinosaur National Monument
The Fossil Discovery Trail at Dinosaur National Monument is amongst the best Colorado hiking trails for kids.
The 1.2 mile one way trail takes visitors through a stunning environment rich with fossil bones from long-extinct animals.
It is one of the best hikes in Colorado to see clam fossils as well as dinosaur bones such as leg bones and vertebrae.
Along the way, you’ll spot several educational signs explaining the geology and history of this incredible area.
The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife like deer, elk, coyotes, and more, so keep your eyes peeled!
At the end of the trail, you’ll find a picnic area with stunning views of Steamboat Rock.
The Fossil Discovery Trail is a great family-friendly hike with plenty to explore and discover.
Technically, it is in the Utah section of the park.
Ouray Perimeter Trail
The Ouray Perimeter Trail is a breath-taking journey of 24.4 miles that takes hikers around the entire city of Ouray, Colorado.
This moderate to strenuous hike offers stunning views of the surrounding San Juan mountain range, historic mining sites, and plenty of alpine lakes and wildflowers along the way.
The path passes through the city’s popular Box Canyon Falls Park, offering plenty of incredible photo opportunities.
Hikers will also come across the iconic Bear Creek Falls as well as many mines, cabins, and ruins from the mining era in Colorado.
The Perimeter Trail is a must-see for anyone looking for a truly unforgettable experience – it’s without a doubt one of the best hikes in Colorado!
Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks as the trail can take up to 8 hours at a leisurely pace!
Dream Lake, Estes Park
Dream Lake in Estes Park is one of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado.
The 3 miles round trip hike begins at the Bear Lake trailhead and leads to a spectacular alpine lake tucked away in an idyllic mountain setting.
The trail winds through lush meadows, aspen forests, and pine groves before culminating at Dream Lake, surrounded by stunning peaks.
The hike has an elevation gain of 681 feet and offers incredible views throughout.
Dream Lake is a great spot for bird watching or simply to take in the tranquility of this mountain oasis.
Molas Pass to Bolam Pass, Durango
This is a 20+ mile long segment of the Colorado Trail near Durango.
The trail features breathtaking views of the San Juan and Weminuche Mountains, as well as glimpses of various alpine lakes.
It is a moderate to difficult hike with some sections that can be quite steep, but it’s definitely worth every bit of effort!
The entire length of the Molas Pass to Bolam Pass hike passes through gorgeous alpine meadows full of wildflowers, aspen forests, and rocky trails.
Keep an eye out for some wildlife like bighorn sheep and deer that often pass by the trail.
The path also follows alongside several creeks which makes a great place to take a break for lunch or just to relax in nature’s beauty.
Ice Lakes Trail, Silverton
Ice Lakes trail, located near Silverton, is a stunning alpine trail that is a must-do for any hiking enthusiast.
This hike is an approximately 8.5-mile round-trip trail, known as one of the most rewarding hikes in Colorado.
It leads you to Ice Lake and Island Lake.
The journey starts from the Ice Lakes Basin trailhead at South Mineral Campground.
It gradually ascends through verdant meadows scattered with a variety of wildflowers, dense forests of fir and spruce, and beautiful creeks.
The trail can be quite challenging due to its steep terrain and high elevation..
…but the breathtaking vistas of blue-green alpine lakes nestled between towering peaks are the perfect reward.
As you ascend, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
It is truly one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado.
The Ice Lakes themselves are simply mesmerizing, with their brilliant turquoise waters set against the backdrop of rugged mountain peaks.
The elevation gain to Ice Lake is 2,430 feet. The elevation gain to Island Lake is 2,552 feet.
Don’t forget to respect the fragile ecosystem and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking this trail.
Fountain Valley Trail, Roxborough State Park
The Fountain Valley Trail in Roxborough State Park is an easy and beautiful hike that takes visitors through some of the most scenic landscapes in Colorado.
This 2.5 mile loop trail passes through lush meadows dotted with wildflowers, diverse wildlife, and awe-inspiring rock formations.
You can spot Fountain Formation – a giant red sandstone spire that towers above the landscape – as you make your way around the loop.
You can also see Lyons formation and Dakota Hogback.
The trail also features several lookout points offering stunning views of the valley and nearby mountains.
Along the way, you can spot a variety of birds, deer, elk, and other wildlife.
It is a perfect day trip from Denver, Colorado.
Maroon Bells Trail, Aspen
If you’re looking for easy yet rewarding hikes in Colorado, look no further than Maroon Bells Scenic Area near Aspen, CO.
The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is an easy 1 mile loop around the lake that provides views of the two iconic 14,000-foot mountains – Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak.
As you make your way along the meandering path, you’ll get to enjoy beautiful wildflowers, grasslands, and meadows.
The trail also offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like elk, deer, and even the occasional bear!
The 3.2-mile round trip Maroon Creek Trail is also worth the challenge.
This breathtakingly beautiful trail starts from the Maroon Bells day use area and passes by pristine alpine lakes, aspen groves, meadows full of wildflowers, and cascading waterfalls.
The trail also provides stunning views of the Maroon Bells along the way.
Both trails are easy enough for most hikers, so you can enjoy all this beautiful landscape has to offer without too much effort.
Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water for your journey.
Maroon Bells Scenic Area is a popular destination anytime of year; however it’s especially stunning during the peak wildflower season in late July or early August.
Crater Lake Trail, Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells is home to some of the most popular hikes in Colorado, and one of them is the Crater Lake Trail.
The 3.6-mile round trip trail will lead you to a pretty alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Along the way, you’ll pass through thick forests of aspen, spruce, and fir trees.
At the end of the trail lies Crater Lake, a pristine alpine lake at an elevation of 10,500 feet.
The breathtakingly blue waters are framed by towering, majestic mountains in all directions.
The scenery here is gorgeous and you will love the incredible views!
Fern Falls Hike, Rocky Mountain National Park
Fern Falls Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is an easy 2-mile round trip hike that is great for families or anyone looking for a peaceful walk in the woods.
The trail passes through lush meadows filled with wildflowers and towering old-growth pine forests.
The highlight of this hike is the majestic Fern Falls at the end of the trail.
The waterfall cascades down a steep rock face and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado.
Along the way, you can also spot an array of wildlife like elk, deer, birds and small mammals.
Monarch Lake Loop Hike, Grand County
Monarch Lake Loop, situated in Grand County, is another splendid hiking spot in Colorado.
With a total round trip distance of approximately 4 miles, this trail offers a relatively easy and family-friendly hiking experience.
Nestled in the serene Arapaho National Forest, the trail skirts the shores of the beautiful Monarch Lake, providing hikers with picturesque lake views throughout the journey.
The trail is also home to abundant wildlife, including moose, deer, and a plethora of bird species, adding to the enchantment of the hike.
The combination of flat and moderately hilly terrain makes it a suitable choice for all skill levels.
Don’t forget to take a moment to soak in the majestic views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, visible across the shimmering waters of the lake.
Quandary Peak, Breckenridge
If you’re up for an adventurous hike and want to summit one of Colorado’s highest peaks, then Quandary Peak is definitely worth checking out.
At 14,265 feet, Quandary Peak is the highest summit in the Tenmile Range.
The summit trail starts at the South Park Trailhead in Breckenridge and has an elevation gain of 3,500 feet over a distance of 3.5 miles.
This is a steep and challenging hike that should not be taken lightly.
Come prepared with plenty of water, food, and appropriate clothing.
The summit trail is challenging but rewarding as hikers make their way to the top.
From the summit of Quandary Peak, hikers can see panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and distant valleys.
Hikers can also enjoy watching birds soaring through the air or spot elks, mountain goats, and mule deer grazing in the meadows.
Quandary Peak is a great choice for experienced hikers who want to challenge themselves with an epic summit hike.
St. Mary’s Glacier, Clear Creek County
St. Mary’s Glacier in Clear Creek County is an easy and accessible 1-mile round trip hike that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
The trail begins at St. Mary’s Lake and follows a stunning stream surrounded by vibrant wildflowers and towering trees.
At the end of the trail, you’ll come upon the glacial lake – a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
The water is icy and crystal clear, making for an ideal place to take a break on your hike or have a picnic.
This popular hike also offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like deer, elk, foxes, and birds.
The breathtaking views of the glacial lake and nearby Rocky Mountains as well as Idaho Springs make this an unforgettable hike!
Mayflower Gulch Trail, Summit County
Mayflower Gulch Trail in Summit County is a relatively easy and family-friendly hike that offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Colorado.
The 4-mile round trip trail passes through fields of wildflowers, lush meadows, and stands of pine trees as you make your way to stunning Mayflower Lake.
Along the way, you can spot an array of wildlife like deer, elk and birds.
The highlight of this hike is the stunning Mayflower Lake at the end of the trail.
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, it makes for the perfect place to take a break or have a picnic lunch.
Upper Fish Creek Falls Trail, Steamboat Springs
Upper Fish Creek Falls Trail is a 5 mile round-trip trail located just outside of Steamboat Springs.
This moderate to difficult hike takes visitors through a picturesque forest filled with aspens, pine trees, and lush meadows.
The trail climbs up to an overlook with birds eye views of the Upper Fish Creek Falls.
This is an impressive 120 foot waterfall that cascades down a steep wall into a pool below.
The hike to the falls is quite strenuous with an elevation gain of 1437 ft.
Make sure you come prepared with snacks and plenty of water.
The Upper Fish Creek Falls Trail is one of the best hikes in Colorado for those looking for a moderate challenge in a stunning natural environment.
South Colony Lakes Trail, Sangre de Cristo Wilderness
The South Colony Lakes Trail is an 8-mile round trip trail located in the awe-inspiring Sangre de Cristo Wilderness.
This strenuous yet rewarding hike takes visitors along a meandering path through dense pine forests and stunning high alpine lakes.
As you make your way up the trail, you can enjoy beautiful views of the towering Sangre de Cristo Mountains and glimpses of various alpine lakes.
The trail ends at South Colony Lakes. Take a break and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the area on reaching the end.
This is one of Colorado’s most spectacular hikes and a great way to experience the majesty of nature!
Colorado Hiking Trail
The Colorado Trail is a long distance trail that deserves a special mention.
The trail is 567 miles long and connects Denver to Durango.
It takes visitors through a variety of terrain, from desert and grassland to high alpine passes and remote forests.
You can hike the entire trail in one go, or break it down into several sections for day hikes.
Along the Colorado trail you will find stunning views of snow-capped peaks, peaceful rivers, vibrant meadows and fields, and plenty of wildlife.
With proper planning and preparation, experienced hikers can complete the hike in 4 to 6 weeks.
The classic Colorado Trail is an epic journey.
It will give you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction on completing this endurance hike.
Colorado is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country.
From family-friendly hikes such as Bridal Veil Falls Trail, to more challenging treks like Sky Pond Trail…
….there’s something here for everyone!
The best part? Every trail offers stunning views of mountain peaks, wildflowers, alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls.
What is your favorite hike in Colorado? Did we miss any hikes in Colorado that should be on this list? Let us know below.