Colorado is one of the most enchanting places you can live and visit. And seeing it from its many fantastic hiking trails is probably the best way to grasp its majesty and beauty.
I put together our most captivating hikes for exploring Colorado. Some take you to alpine lakes, some with eye-popping peak views, some wandering across alpine tundra, and all are incredible.
WILLOW LAKES via GORE RANGE TRAIL
Willow Lakes, nestled high in the Gore Range surrounded by its jagged rugged peaks, is breathtaking — one of Colorado’s best day hikes or weekend backpacking adventures.
The Gore Range never disappoints!
11.6 miles out & back — Strenuous — Silverthorne, CO
HOPE PASS via WILLIS GULCH TRAIL
A loved hike of ours is Hope Pass via Willis Gulch Trail. A challenging climb that will test your strength & breathing! An incredible trail that takes you far above treeline to striking views beyond your expectations.
Unbeatable beauty at the foot of Independence Pass.
10 miles out & back — Strenuous — Twin Lakes/Leadville, CO
LOST MAN LAKE TRAIL
Lost Man Trail is a Colorado gem! It is near the Summit of Independence Pass, a high alpine wonder with unstoppable views and two gorgeous alpine lakes.
I can’t recommend it enough!
5.5 miles out and back — Moderately challenging — Independence Pass
HAGERMAN TUNNEL TRAIL
Hagerman Tunnel Trail, also known as Midland Trail is famous for its stunning scenery throughout your hike. It is one of our favorite trails with history, an alpine lake, and gorgeous panoramic views.
5.5-mile loop — Easy/moderate — Leadville, CO
OURAY PERIMETER TRAIL
Ouray Perimeter Trail, I’d call this more of an adventure than a hike with so many natural sites along the trail. Bridges, aspen fields, unusual rocks, cliff drops, waterfalls, mining tunnels, and views! It’s approx. 5-6 miles of not knowing what to expect on the next corner.
Great fun and a great hike!
5.9 mile loop — Moderate/strenuous — Ouray, CO
MOHAWK LAKES TRAIL
Mohawk Lakes Trail is one of Colorado’s favorite day hikes. This hike has it all. You begin at 10,390′ elevation and reach 12,000′, with alpine lakes, old cabins, creek crossings, summer wildflowers, a dazzling waterfall, and incredible views.
It is Colorado at its best!
The trail begins at Spruce Creek Trailhead — 6 miles out and back to the lower lake — 6.7 miles out and back to the upper lake Moderate/strenuous — Breckenridge, CO
WASHINGTON GULCH TRAIL
Washington Gulch trail is an alpine treat with wildflowers galore and eye-popping peak views that leave you in awe and often stopping to take it all in.
Hiking near Crested Butte, CO, never disappoints.!
7.5 miles out & back — Moderate/strenuous — Crested Butte, CO
When hiking, you should always be aware of > altitude sickness while hiking in the Rocky Mountains at higher elevations. Be prepared for extreme sun exposure, cooler temperatures, wind, and unpredictable weather conditions. Ensure you have the > appropriate gear to keep you safe.
HOPE LAKE TRAIL
Hope Lake Trail is one of the most sought-after trails near Telluride, CO, and we had the pleasure of finding out why — we loved it!
High peaks hover above us as we hike through lush green forests, crossing creeks, views all around, and a beautiful alpine lake high above the treeline in a basin lined with 13ers.
5.3 miles out and back — Moderate — Ophir, CO
BOOTH LAKE TRAIL
Booth Lake Trail was strenuous and exhilarating, leaving us speechless when reaching the tree line. Beautiful from beginning to end with the bonus of popular 60′ Booth Falls!
10 miles out and back — Strenuous — Vail, CO
Osprey Backpacks – My favorite
Counter Assault Bear Spray – Be safer!
BRIDAL VEIL BASIN to BLUE LAKE TRAIL
Bridal Veil Basin to Blue Lake will leave you stunned with its scenic beauty. The famous 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 lets you down!
8.7 miles out & back — Moderate/strenuous — Telluride, CO
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