Day hikes in Colorado are in abundance and all have their own unique beauty. However, there are 8 trails that stick out that are so memorable that I’d like to share them with you.

Moderate to strenuous trails that took our breath away and keep us in awe from start to finish.

HOPE LAKE TRAIL

Hope Lake Trail, Telluride, CO, Ophir, San Juan Mountains, SW Colorado trails, hikes Telluride, Colorado, Trout Lake,

TELLURIDE, CO

Hope Lake Trail is one of the most sought-after trails near Telluride, CO, and we had the pleasure of finding out why. Loved it!

High peaks hover above us as we hike through green lush forests, crossing creeks, views all around, and a beautiful alpine lake high above the treeline in a basin lined with 13ers. A true Colorado experience. 

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BOOTH LAKE TRAIL

Booth Lake Trail, hikes Vail,

VAIL, CO

Booth Lake Trail was strenuous, exhilarating, and left us speechless when reaching the tree line. Beautiful from beginning to end with the added bonus of popular 60′ Booth Falls!

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ISABELLE GLACIER TRAIL

Isabelle Lake, Isabelle Glacier Trail, Brainard Recreation Area, hikes in Brainard Recreation Area, day hikes, best hikes near Denver, day hikes, best day hikes in Colorado

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 onto Isabelle Glacier.

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NATIVE LAKES TRAIL

hikes Leadville, day hikes, best hikes in Colorado, hiking, Colorado trails, Turquoise Lake, Leadville trails, Colorado Hikes, Colorado, Mt. Elbert, high altitude hikes,

LEADVILLE, CO

Native Lake Trail, near Leadville CO, is a gem! Totally unexpected and full of diversity. So much variety in terrain and scenery. Spectacular!

You’ll find yourself hiking uphill through dense pines and spruces, crossing creeks, hiking across alpine tundra above treeline then down again with Mt. Massive and the Continental Divide towering over you.

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Hiking Umbrella, My new favorite addition to the trail. Lightweight & perfect for sun & rain protection.

Hiking first aid kit. If you don’t have it, you will need it! A must on every trail adventure.

Osprey backpacks. My personal favorite for day hikes. Fits well and carries everything I need.

BRIDAL VIEL BASIN to BLUE LAKE

Bridal Veil Falls, Bridal veil Basin, blue lake, hikes Telluride, Colorado trails, day hikes, best day hikes in Colorado

TELLURIDE, CO

Bridal Veil Basin to Blue Lake left us 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!

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BLUE LAKES TRAIL

Blue Lakes, Blue Lakes Trail, San Juan Mountains, hikes near Ouray, Ouray, Ridgway, Telluride, SW Colorado trails, hiking, Colorado trails, best hike in Colorado, backcountry trails, day hikes, best day hike in Colorado

RIDGWAY, CO

Blue Lakes Trail was above and beyond our expectations! There is nothing like a hike in the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado.  Looking for a trail that won’t disappoint? This is it!

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> CLICK HERE for practical gear that we love at Crazy About Colorado and have in our backpacks on every hike.

HOPE PASS via WILLIS GULCH

Hope Pass, Colorado Trail, CT, Colorado, day hikes, Twin lakes, Colorado Trails

TWIN LAKES, CO

Hope Pass via Willis Gulch Trail is a challenging climb that will test your strength & breathing! An amazing trail that takes you far above treeline passing picas & marmots. One of my favorite hikes! 

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CATARACT GULCH TRAIL

Cataract Gulch Trail, Lake City hikes, Lake City, Colorado Hikes, Hiking trails,

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 Contentinal Divide high above the treeline is the perfect ending.

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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).

Can't wait to see you on the trail!

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