A Guide to the Best Hikes in Colorado

20 May 2026

If you're craving jaw-dropping views, fresh mountain air, and trails that challenge both body and soul, Colorado is your ultimate hiking playground. From towering peaks to lush valleys, this state has a trail for every kind of hiker. Strap on your boots, grab some trail mix, and let’s dive into the best hikes in Colorado!

1. Hanging Lake Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet

Ever seen a place so stunning you thought it was photoshopped? That’s Hanging Lake. This short but steep hike outside of Glenwood Springs rewards you with a crystal-clear, turquoise lake that looks straight out of a fantasy novel. The trail is rocky, with a few areas where you may need to scramble, but trust me—it's worth every step.

? Pro Tip: Permits are required, so book in advance. Also, no swimming—this fragile ecosystem needs protection!

2. Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 9.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,758 feet

This Rocky Mountain National Park jewel delivers everything: waterfalls, alpine lakes, and a heart-pounding ascent. You pass Alberta Falls first (a beauty in its own right), but the real magic happens once you reach The Loch, Timberline Falls, and finally, the stunning Sky Pond.

Brace yourself—the final stretch requires a scramble up a waterfall. Yes, you read that right. It’s slippery, steep, and a bit nerve-racking, but you'll feel like a total badass when you reach the top.

3. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 160 feet

Not all great hikes have to make you sweat buckets. The Maroon Bells, often dubbed the most photographed mountains in North America, are best enjoyed via this breathtaking, leisurely trail. The reflections of the peaks in Maroon Lake at sunrise? Unreal.

If you want a longer adventure, take the trail deeper into the valley. Otherwise, just enjoy this easy stroll and soak it all in.

? Pro Tip: The area gets insanely crowded. Plan to visit early in the morning or late afternoon.

4. Grays and Torreys Peaks (14ers Double Whammy)

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 3,600 feet

Ready to bag your first 14er (or two)? These twin peaks are two of Colorado's most accessible 14,000-foot mountains. The trail is steep but manageable, and on a clear day, the panoramic views from both summits will steal your breath—literally and figuratively.

Start early (we're talking before sunrise) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. And don't forget: altitude sickness is real, so hydrate and acclimate before attempting these giants.

5. Ice Lakes Basin

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 8.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,982 feet

If "otherworldly" is what you’re after, Ice Lakes Basin in the San Juan Mountains is calling your name. The hike climbs relentlessly through wildflower-filled meadows before delivering you to alpine lakes so blue they seem unreal.

This trail is no joke, but the reward? Pure magic. The kind of beauty that makes you forget how sore your legs are.

6. The Manitou Incline

Difficulty: Extreme
Distance: 1 mile (but feels like 10)
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet

Think you're in shape? This brutal staircase of over 2,700 railroad tie steps in Manitou Springs will put you to the test. It’s essentially a vertical climb straight into the sky, and your legs will be screaming for mercy before you even hit the halfway point.

But reaching the top? That feeling of triumph is unbeatable. And hey, you can always take the scenic Barr Trail down instead of punishing your knees on the descent.

7. Royal Arch Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,492 feet

Located in Boulder’s Chautauqua Park, this hike is a killer leg workout with some of the best views over the city. The massive sandstone arch at the top makes all the uphill slogging totally worth it.

It’s a local favorite, so expect company on the trail. But the good news? This means you’ll always have someone to share the “why did I do this to myself” struggle with on the way up.

8. Blue Lakes Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,509 feet

Tucked away in the Uncompahgre National Forest, the Blue Lakes Trail is a dreamlike escape into the wilderness, featuring not one, not two, but three dazzling alpine lakes. The scenery shifts from dense forest to open meadows to jagged peaks, keeping things interesting the entire way.

? Pro Tip: Bring layers—weather up here changes faster than your mood before coffee.

9. The Crater Lake Trail (Maroon Bells Area)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 692 feet

Starting at Maroon Lake, this hike takes you further into the rugged beauty of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The lake at the end is jaw-dropping, with the iconic peaks reflecting on the water like a perfect postcard.

It’s short enough to be doable but still gives you a solid taste of alpine adventure. Ideal for those who want epic views without committing to an all-day trek.

10. Mount Bierstadt (A “Beginner” 14er)

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 7.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,850 feet

Hiking a 14er is on many outdoor adventurers’ bucket lists, and Mount Bierstadt is often recommended as a “starter” peak. Don’t let that fool you—this hike is still tough. The altitude alone can wreck you if you’re not prepared.

But the summit? Absolutely worth the sweat, struggle, and occasional questioning of your life choices. Plus, the sunrise views are unreal.

Final Thoughts

Colorado is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle scenic strolls to grueling high-altitude climbs. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or just looking for a fun weekend adventure, there’s a trail here with your name on it. Just remember: Start early, check the weather, stay hydrated, and leave no trace. Now go hit the trails—you’ve got mountains to conquer!