The 10 Best Trails for Hiking in Colorado (Beginners and Advanced Hikers)

Over the years, the popularity of hiking has surged considerably. Today, hiking is the fourth most-popular outdoor activity in the country.

The top three positions go to running, fishing, and biking.

Among the most beloved hiking trails in the US are in Colorado. The state is renowned for its plentiful sunny weather, breathtaking mountain views, and year-round hiking opportunities. In this guide, we give you some of the best places in Colorado that are truly a hiker’s paradise, whether you are a beginner or an advanced hiker.

Read on to learn more:

The Best Places in Colorado for Hiking

For hikers looking for new trails to explore, Colorado offers endless options. Check out six of the best hikes in Colorado to try out at least once in your lifetime. 

1. Garden of the Gods Inner Loop

This easily accessible hiking trail is minutes away from Colorado Springs. Its paved paths and well-maintained paths make it ideal for beginners. 

Because the park is among the most popular Colorado hiking trails, chances are there’ll be other hikers on the trails. However, you can still choose your own route if you want to escape the crowds. Alternatively, you can take the well-used paths to the most popular viewpoints.

During this hiking trip, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the White Rock, Kissing Camels, and other world-famous rock formations. Towards the southern end of the inner loop, you can take the Sleeping Giant Trail to the Sleeping Giant rock formation.

There are, of course, many other treats you can expect in this Colorado hiking trail. There aren’t any fees for accessing the park, and there’s a free shuttle. For the best experience, time your trip to catch the sunset or the sunrise, and don’t forget your camera.

2. Devil’s Head Lookout

This fantastic hike is located one hour from Denver. The trail leads to the Devil’s Head Lookout, which is among the most extraordinary destinations in the country. 

The Devil’s Head Lookout is among seven fire towers built about a century ago. Today, it’s the only one standing and is listed as a historic place on the National Register. 

After climbing the 143 stairs on the side of the Devil’s Head to the tower, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the Front Range.

The road to the trailhead is usually closed between December and April. During the Summer, however, the trail is busy, so you may want to arrive early, so you don’t miss a parking spot.

3. Monarch Lake to Crater Lake

Hiking in Colorado isn’t complete unless you’ve explored the Indian Peaks Wilderness in the mountains west of Boulder. There are miles of unspoiled trails that you won’t get enough of. The wilderness has lots of access points on either side of the Continental Divide.

There’s an incredible mix of breathtaking scenery and terrain from the Monarch Lake to Crater Lake. If you’re hiking in the Summer, expect an abundance of beautiful wildflowers in addition to the aspen and pine groves along the trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose.

Other treats include spectacular waterfalls, such as the Cascade Falls. There are unforgettable views too, such as the Munt Achonee and The Lone Eagle Peak. 

In case you intend to stay overnight, you’re going to need a permit. There’s a small fee for parking at the Monarch Lake Trailhead, so bring some money.

4. Emerald Lake

Few hiking trails are longer or better known than the Rocky Mountain National Park. The park has over 300 miles of scenic trails. First-time hikers will particularly enjoy a hike to Emerald Lake, which is one of the jewels of the park

The hike to Emerald Lake starts from Bear Lake. Hikers need a park pass. Given that this trailhead is wildly popular, it’s best to arrive early. 

The trail passes through beautiful pine and aspen forests. At the peaceful shore of Nymph Lake, you can catch glimpses of the breathtaking Longs Peak and the summit of Hallett Peak.

The Emerald Lake sits at an incredible 10,000 feet. It’s a picture-perfect destination that you and your family will be sure to enjoy.

5. Quandary Peak

Quandary Peak is located about 90 minutes from Denver. It’s one of the most hiked trails in the state. Although the peak is accessible, hiking there isn’t a simple undertaking.

The trail is ideal for intermediate and advanced hikers as it involves some level of risk. There’s considerable elevation and weather exposure, so be sure to pack enough water, food, and extra clothing. 

The peak is located in the Tenmile range and tops out at 14,265 feet. During the first mile of the climb, you’ll go through a sparse forest that gets progressively thinner as you go higher. The trail gets rockier after every mile.

You may spot mountain goats, pikas, and yellow-bellied marmots on your way up. While the final mile of the trail is very rocky, reaching the official summit marker is worth the effort.

6. Royal Arch

There’s a good reason Boulder is referred to as the mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The multitudes of trails in this area can keep any hiker occupied for days.

The Royal Arch, in particular, is a destination that packs lots of highlights in a considerably manageable distance. The incline, however, isn’t easy, so prepare for a muscle-burning climb. The astonishing views to the north and south of the Royal Arch, however, are well worth the sweat. 

During the peak hours, there’s limited parking at the Chautauqua Park, so it’s best to take the free shuttle from town.

Colorado Has the Perfect Trails for Every Hiker

Whether you are planning your first ever hike or are a seasoned hiker looking for your next adventure, Colorado never disappoints. The best places in Colorado for hikers feature easy one-day trips, backpacking trips, and views that will leave you yearning for more.

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