Colorado Hiking Trails that will keep you excited about hiking!
If you think doing one hike in Colorado was your favorite then guess again. I do that all the time. I will hike a trail and think “wow” this is spectacular. Not long later I hike a different trail and think “wow” this one is spectacular. In conclusion, they are all unique and all exceptional.
I put together 23 of the best hikes we did in 2021. Each one was a different adventure and I am excited to share them with you.
Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).
CRYSTAL LAKE TRAIL
Lake City, CO
Crystal Lake Trail sits just beneath the eastern side of Crystal Peak (12,933f ft) and presents a stunning ending to a spectacular hike. Minutes from Lake City, CO you find yourself amid intense forests of aspens and meadows with sweeping views of Lake City far below. Then onto dense pines along ridges with stunning views of the highest peaks and rewarded with a sweet alpine lake. > READ MORE
8.2 miles out & back
Rated: Moderate/strenuous
No restrooms
Elevation gain: 2,960 ft
Highest elevation: 11,760 ft
This hike is an aspen, & wildflower extravaganza. Bring a Wildflower Field Guide with you!
FOREST LAKES TRAIL
Rollinsville, CO
Forest Lake Trail takes you to 2 lovely alpine lakes, one that is tranquil and one that rests among the rugged Continental Divide peaks. Hiking is a gentle wide path in the first mile than an adventure as you hike higher up. Wooden bridges, meadows, dense forests take you up to a mountain paradise hidden at the tree line.
> READ MORE to find if this hike is meant for you! It’s a gem.
8.1 mile out & back
Rated: Hard
Lower & Upper Lakes
Portable Toilets
Elevation Gain: 1,794
SPRUCE CREEK TRAIL
Breckenridge, CO
Spruce Creek Trail loop is beautiful in each season. Starting off meandering through a forest of pines with the added option of hiking to Mohawk Lakes above treeline it’s truly Colorado at its best. Located in stunning Blue River, CO near Breckenridge, CO you can’t go wrong. > READ MORE
4.3-mile loop
Rated: moderate
Open to leashed dogs
No restrooms
Check out our summer hike to Mohawk Lakes via the Spruce Creek Trail. A hike not to miss! One of the most popular trails in Breckenridge, CO
Appropriate Winter Gear is Essential for safety and warmth > CLICK HERE for a look at what I use and wear and why!
ISABELLE GLACIER TRAIL
Ward, CO
Isabelle Glacier Trail is like hiking into a Colorado postcard. Unmatched in its scenic beauty from beginning to end. It’s a hike that screams “this is Colorado”. You can hike to gorgeous Isabelle lake for an easier yet beautiful day or be adventurous and hike on to Isabelle Glacier. > READ MORE
Isabelle Lake
4.2 miles out & back
Rated: moderate
Isabelle Glacier
8.4 miles out & back
Rated: strenuous
Indian Peaks Wilderness
Restrooms
No bikes, no horses
Dogs ok
NOTE: In Late June to Mid Oct this is a fee area and reservations are required as of late Sept. 2021. Located in the Brainard Recreation Area > CLICK HERE for more information. > CLICK HERE for reservations.
What to do if you encounter wildlife >CLICK HERE
MILL CASTLE TRAIL
Gunnison, CO
Mill Castle Trail is so unique and different with its canyon walls, pinnacles, and massive aspens forests that photos simply can’t capture it. A hidden gem with few hikers and a dreamy area for those wanting solitude in the wild.. > READ MORE
Mill Castle Trail
8 miles out and back
Rated: moderate
Mill Castle to Storm Pass
15.5 miles out and back
Rated: strenuous
Gunnison National Forest
I highly recommend carrying Bear Spray on all backcountry trails, even in winter.
BRIDAL VEIL BASIN TRAIL
Telluride, CO
Bridal Veil Basin to Blue Lake will leave you stunned with its scenic beauty. The popular 365′ Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado is the first highlight of many more to come as you hike deeper into the Bridal Veil Basin.
Hiking in the San Juan Mountains never disappoints! Located at the edge of town in Telluride, CO, it is one not to miss! > READ MORE
Rated: moderate/strenuous
Start Elevation: 10,400′ End 12,220″
8.7 miles out & back
Portable Potties
Uncompahgre National Forest
Be Prepared! The right gear makes all the difference for a safe and happy hike > CLICK HERE
HOPE PASS
Twin Lakes, CO
Hope Pass via Willis Gulch Trail is a challenging climb that will test your strength & breathing! An incredible trail that takes you far above treeline to views beyond your expectations. One of Colorado’s exceptional hikes and one of my all-time favorites! > READ MORE
10 miles out & back
Rated: strenuous
3,254′ elevation gain
Highest elevation: 12,508′
No restroom
Leashed dogs ok
Nearest Town: Twin Lakes/Leadville, CO
San Isabel National Forest
LINKINS LAKE TRAIL
Independence Pass, CO
Linkins Lake Trail is short, steep, and gorgeous. For such a small adventure it is packed with everything Colorado. Take a break from the crowds near Aspen, CO, and take in this beauty that starts above the treeline to an Alpine Lake.
More trails leading in several directions from Linkins Lake make this an adventure. You will love it! > READ MORE
Trail #1979
1.6 mile out & back
Rated: moderate
Lake elevation: 12,008′
Popular for fishing
THE CRAGS TRAIL
Divide, CO
Get ready for the unexpected. You won’t be disappointed, instead, you’ll be giddy with awe. Not your normal trek through the Colorado forests when reaching the top. The views and the rock formations will leave you stunned. > READ MORE
4.9 miles out & back
Rated: easy/moderate
Open year round
Gate Closed in Winter to trailhead but can snowshoe in
BUTLER GULCH TRAIL
Empire, CO
Butler Gulch Trail is an incredibly beautiful hike amid a sprinkling of wildflowers, old mining remnants, a waterfall, and snow-capped peaks. Take the loop hike and find unimaginable views that take your breath away while Marmots and Pikas check you out. One of Colorados’ best day hikes, easily accessible from Denver. > READ MORE
5.5 miles out & back
Rated: moderate/strenuous
Dogs ok on leash
No restrooms
Elevation Start 10,500′ – end 12,000+’
HARVARD LAKES
Buena Vista, CO
Harvard Lakes Trail via the Colorado Trail is a casual hike through the forests with intermediate views of the sensational Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas Valley below. Looking for a quiet trail to a couple of sweet lakes situated below Mt. Columbia 14er this is it. > READ MORE
6 mile out & back
Rated: moderate
No restrooms
Start Elevation: 9120 ft.
Ending Elevation: approx: 10,340 ft.
Open to dogs and horses
CATARACT GULCH TRAIL
Lake City, CO
Cataract Gulch Trail is packed with cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and abundant wildflowers. Located in the backcountry, yet accessible by car it’s the perfect hike for day hiking enthusiasts. Reaching Cataract Lake located on the Continental Divide high above the treeline is the perfect ending. > READ MORE
I highly recommend carrying Bear Spray on this trail & leaving your car empty of food.
Cataract Gulch – 4.5 miles out & back
Cataract Lake – 8.6 miles out & back
Moderate/strenous
Restroom
SEVEN BRIDGES TRAIL
Manitou Springs, CO
Seven Bridges Trail is a hike for anyone who loves to enjoy the woods. Waterfalls, bridges, and beautiful forests leave you transfixed and loving every minute as you hike this trail. It’s both enjoyable and gorgeous. Perfect for families, visitors, and newbies to Colorado. > READ MORE
Busy area in summer. Large parking lot but fills up quickly.
3.5 miles out and back
Rated: easy/slightly moderate
Dogs on leash ok
Portable Potties
Parking: Lot 18
CRYSTAL LAKE TRAIL
Breckenridge, CO
Crystal Lakes Trail located near Breckenridge, CO is a haven of alpine scenery. Views of the Ten Mile Range alongside Lower Crystal Lake nestled below the mountain ridges are gorgeous. One beautiful hike through deep forests, wildflower-lined meadows, and Crystal Creek running through it all.. > READ MORE
4.6 miles out & back/Lower Lake
8.4 miles out & back/Upper Lake
Rated: Moderate/Hard
Elevation Gain: 1,604′ 1st Lake
Elevaton Gain: 2,568′ 2nd Lake
No restrooms
MOUNTAIN BOY RIDGE
Independence Pass, CO
Mountian Boy Ridge Trail at the Summit of Independence Pass is a must-do if prepared. Absolutely stunning as you hike past the Summit along Mountain Boy Ridge across the Continental Divide and see views like no other. Bring your boots, hiking essentials, and wander far beyond the lookout. You won’t be disappointed! > READ MORE
6 miles out & back
Rated: difficult
Nearest towns; Aspen, Leadville
Highest elevation: Near 13,000′
Restrooms at Summit
If weather conditions are favorable and you’ve acclimated to high altitude take a wander and see Colorado at its highest! I stress being acclimated to the altitude because it is real and can make you sick. Read here for more info >High Altitude Warning Signs
Know the weather forecast – before hiking above treeline – a good source is mountainweather.com
HUNTER CREEK TRAIL
Aspen, CO
Hunter Creek Trail in Aspen, CO is a hiking, running, and mountain biking haven. A rocky dirt trail that goes alongside beautiful Hunter Creek to Hunter Valley where you find a mixture of single-path trails.
The waterfalls, bridges, and aspen trees along with numerous old buildings were enchanting. > READ MORE
North Hunter Creek – 8.9 miles
Rated: moderate
Lower Hunter Creek Trail 1.7 miles
Rated: easy
Dog Friendly
For a map >CLICK HERE
WHEELER LAKE TRAIL
Hoosier Pass, CO
Wheeler Lake Trail is a hidden gem beyond Montgomery Reservoir that few know about. Not far from Alma, CO, you’ll find Montgomery Reservoir and a great day hike. A gorgeous waterfall to begin or end your day and a trail with views of North Star Mtn, 13,406, Wheeler Mtn. 13,629 ft, and Clinton Peak, 13,813 ft. until reaching beautiful Wheeler Lake at 12 + ft. > READ MORE
Rated easy/moderate
6.5 miles out & back
No restrooms
Nearest Town: Alma, CO
Pike National Forest
EMERALD LAKE TRAIL
Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
Emerald Lake located in Rocky Mountain National Park is a gorgeous hike from start to finish. There is nothing lacking on this trail, it screams Colorado Rockies in spades. One of the most popular hikes in the Park. It took my breath away,
An unforgettable hike. It’s crowded but worth it. > READ MORE
3.5 miles out & back
Rated: easy/moderate
Lake elevation: 10,110 ft
For a trail map, >CLICK HERE.
For shuttle Info, >CLICK HERE
LOST LAKE TRAIL
Nederland, CO
Lost Lake Trail is beautiful and a must-do in springtime in the Colorado Rockies. Has fewer crowds and is a great time to get into the wild. Easy access from Boulder and Denver makes this a favorite front-range hike. > READ MORE
4 mile out & back
Rated: moderate
No restrooms
No horses, bikes
Dogs ok on leash
Shuttlein Summer
Family friendly
Boulder Ranger District; 303-541-2500
DARK CANYON TRAIL
Kebler Pass, CO
Dark Canyon, Irwin, and Dyke Trail Loop is located on Kebler Pass which is known for its massive aspen trees in the fall. Not to leave out its sensational wildflowers in the summer months. Beautiful hike with endless views, incredible forests, beaver dams, and rugged mountains. > READ MORE
5.9 Mile Loop
Rated: moderate
Restroom
Open to dogs, horses
Gunnison National Forest
West Elk Wilderness
Ragged Wilderness
CUB LAKE TRAIL
Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
Cub Lake Trail is located in Rocky Mountain National Park in the Moraine Park area. The trail is packed with lush green meadows, beaver ponds, forest-lined trails, rocky canyon walls, elks herds, and more.
A wildlife wonder and great for a family hike > READ MORE
5.1 miles out & back
Rated: an easy moderate
For a trail map, >CLICK HERE.
For shuttle Info, >CLICK HERE
CRAGS CREST TRAIL
Grans Mesa, CO
Crags Crest Trail on the Grand Mesa designated a National Recreation Trail near Grand Junction, CO is like no other hike you will find in Colorado. Rocky paths, serene forests, and 360º views of western Colorado’s valleys, lakes, and high peaks are incredible. One hike you won’t forget!
Adventurous hike, you will love it. I found it more moderate than hard, just tricky in spots, take it slow and enjoy! > READ MORE
Trail #711
6.5 miles
Rated: hard
Restrooms
Nearest Town: Cedaridge, CO
POLLOCK BENCH TRAIL
Fruita, CO
Pollock Bench Trail in the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area near Grand Junction and Fruita, CO is a pleasant surprise as you hike into its wilder areas. Sensational scenic views of Flume Canyon, Devils Canyon, and the beautiful canyon walls of Pollock Canyon. > READ MORE
There is no shade on this trail! Please have plenty of water, electrolytes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to keep safe from dehydration and sunburn, so common on any hike in Colorado’s wilderness. Have you heard of a hiking umbrella? A great way to prevent sun exposure.
6.5-mile loop
Rated: easy/moderate
Restroom
Ample parking
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HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL!
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Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).
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