Colorado is a Rocky Mountain state renowned for world-class skiing, stunning national parks, and vibrant outdoor culture. From the soaring peaks of the Rockies to the red rock canyons of the southwest, Colorado offers some of America's most dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Bear Lake to Emerald Lake Loop
Colorado's most popular family hike passing three beautiful alpine lakes through old-growth forest with stunning views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. Wildlife frequently spotted including deer, marmots, and elk.
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2
Maroon Lake to Crater Lake
Colorado's most iconic hike passing the famous Maroon Lake reflection of the Maroon Bells peaks to Crater Lake in the wilderness. Spectacular wildflowers in July and golden aspens in September.
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3
Hanging Lake Trail
Steeply climbing trail to a jewel-like teal lake perched on a cliff edge above Glenwood Canyon. The lake is fed by Spouting Rock waterfall and Bridal Veil waterfall. Permit required year-round.
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4
Pikes Peak via Barr Trail
Epic summit climb to the top of Pikes Peak (14,115 ft) via the famous Barr Trail starting in Manitou Springs. One of Colorado's most iconic fourteener hikes with the historic Barr Camp halfway point.
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5
Chautauqua First Flatiron Trail
Boulder's beloved trail offering dramatic views of the iconic Flatirons rock formations rising above the city. The trail gains elevation steadily through meadows and pine forest with Boulder Valley visible below.
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6
Four Pass Loop
One of Colorado's premier backpacking routes circling through four high mountain passes (Buckskin Pass, Trail Rider Pass, Frigid Air Pass, and West Maroon Pass) with spectacular wilderness scenery throughout.
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7
Garden of the Gods Perkins Central Garden Trail
Walk through Colorado Springs' stunning red rock formations past Balanced Rock, Kissing Camels, and other geological wonders with Pikes Peak as a dramatic backdrop. Family-friendly paved sections available.
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8
Royal Gorge Rim Trail
Dramatic cliff-edge walk along the rim of the Royal Gorge with views 956 feet down to the Arkansas River and the world-famous suspension bridge below. Canyon wildlife including golden eagles and bighorn sheep visible.
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9
Grays and Torreys Peaks
Colorado's most accessible double fourteener hike - summit both Grays Peak (14,270 ft) and Torreys Peak (14,267 ft) in one day from the Stevens Gulch Trailhead near Georgetown. Clear summer days offer four-state views.
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10
South Rim Trail, Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Dramatic cliff-edge walk above one of America's most spectacular canyons with views 2,700 feet down to the Gunnison River. Multiple viewpoints including Painted Wall - Colorado's tallest cliff at 2,250 feet.
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11
Great Sand Dunes High Dune Trail
Hike through North America's tallest sand dunes to the High Dune summit with spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the surreal dune landscape. Walking on loose sand makes this harder than it looks.
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12
Colorado Trail - Segment 1
The start of the epic 486-mile Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango. Waterton Canyon section follows a beautiful river canyon with bighorn sheep before climbing into the mountains.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Colorado.
- Spring
- Wildflowers at lower elevations (April-May), but most high trails remain snow-covered through late May or June. Check conditions at recreation.gov before going.
- Summer
- Best conditions for most trails June-August. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms above treeline. Busy season - arrive at trailheads before 7AM to secure parking.
- Fall
- Spectacular golden aspen foliage September-October. Ideal temperatures with fewer summer crowds. Snow possible at high elevation by mid-October.
- Winter
- Many trails accessible with snowshoes or microspikes. Some require permits. Beautiful and uncrowded but requires appropriate gear and experience.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Afternoon thunderstorms above treeline June-August - always descend below treeline by noon in summer
Hazard: Altitude sickness affects many visitors above 8,000 feet - acclimatize for 24-48 hours before strenuous hikes
Hazard: UV radiation is 40-60% stronger at Colorado's elevation - wear SPF 50+ sunscreen and UV protective clothing
Hazard: Wildlife encounters - black bears (carry bear spray), mountain lions, and moose (more dangerous than bears) present throughout Colorado
Hazard: Flash floods in slot canyons and canyon trails during summer rainstorms - always check weather before canyon hikes
Hazard: Rapidly changing weather - always carry extra warm layers and a waterproof jacket even on clear summer days
Hazard: Dehydration - Colorado's dry climate causes rapid fluid loss; drink 3-4 liters per day when hiking