Hiking Guide to Colorado: The best trails for all levels

Colorado's rugged beauty is an open invitation for hikers from all walks of life, promising trails that meander through whispering aspen groves, scale the dizzying heights of the Rockies, and unveil panoramas that leave even the chattiest of adventurers speechless. Whether you're lacing up your boots for the first time or have more miles under your belt than a seasoned thru-hiker, we’ve got a slice of this mountain paradise just for you. Our hiking guide is brimming with routes that cater to every level of experience, ensuring that every step is packed with awe-inspiring views and that exhilarating sense of connection with nature. Let’s wander through the best trails Colorado has to offer, where every path promises its own unique blend of challenges and picturesque rewards.

Colorado Trail Section #6 Trailhead, Maroon Lake Trailhead, Blue Lakes Trail, Tonahutu Trailhead, Bear Peak Trail, Moffat Tunnel - East Portal, Devil's Head Lookout, Chautauqua Trail Overlook, South Mesa Trailhead, Conundrum Trailhead, Emerald Lake, Hanging Lake Trailhead

• Colorado Trail Section #6 Trailhead, United States

  
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  The Colorado Trail Section #6 trailhead offers hikers a splendid opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Colorado's rugged terrain. This section of the trail, ideal for intrepid adventurers or those looking for a challenging day trip, features a variety of landscapes from dense forests to alpine meadows, and showcases panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Hikers of all levels can enjoy this trail, but it's advised that novices prepare appropriately or consider shorter segments to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on this scenic but demanding trail.

• Maroon Lake Trailhead in Aspen, United States

  
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  The Maroon Lake Trailhead, situated in the stunning Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, is a quintessential starting point for hikers of all levels venturing into the Colorado Rockies. This trailhead offers access to a variety of hikes, from the gentle meander around Maroon Lake, perfect for families and those seeking a leisurely stroll, to the more challenging day hikes or multi-day treks into the wilderness for panoramic mountain views and encounters with Colorado's famous wildflowers and wildlife. Whether you're an experienced backpacker or a casual hiker, the Maroon Lake Trailhead serves as the gateway to some of the most iconic and picturesque landscapes in Colorado.

• Blue Lakes Trail, United States

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  The Blue Lakes Trail, nestled in the stunning San Juan Mountains of Colorado, offers hikers of all levels an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking alpine scenery. This moderate to difficult trail, spanning roughly 8.6 miles round trip, captivates visitors with its three glacially carved lakes, each a deeper hue of mesmerizing blue, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Sneffels. With its wildflower-strewn paths during the summer and the potential for encountering wildlife, the Blue Lakes Trail is a must-visit for anyone exploring the quintessential beauty of Colorado's high country.

• Tonahutu Trailhead, United States

  
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• Bear Peak Trail in Boulder, United States

  
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  Bear Peak Trail offers a robust challenge for intermediate to advanced hikers seeking to conquer one of Boulder's highest summits. With a rise to 8,461 feet, the trail presents a strenuous 7.1-mile round-trip journey that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Front Range, the Continental Divide, and the Denver metro area. Steep grades, rugged terrain, and the optional scramble to the peak make Bear Peak a must-hike adventure for those looking to experience the quintessential rugged beauty of Colorado's mountain landscape.

• Moffat Tunnel - East Portal, United States

  
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  The East Portal of the Moffat Tunnel serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails in the James Peak Wilderness and surrounding areas of Colorado's Front Range. From this historic tunnel entrance, hikers can embark on a range of trails — from the relatively easy Forest Lakes trail, perfect for families and beginners, to the more challenging paths leading up to higher alpine lakes and peaks for experienced hikers seeking breathtaking vistas and rigorous treks. As a bonus, the area around the East Portal offers a fascinating glimpse into Colorado's railroad and mining history, adding an educational twist to outdoor adventures.

• Devil's Head Lookout, United States

  
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  Devil's Head Lookout offers a unique and rewarding hiking experience ideal for those of intermediate skill levels in Colorado. Positioned within the Pike National Forest, this 2.8-mile round-trip trail culminates with panoramic views from one of the region's last operational fire lookouts. With a moderate elevation gain that reaches an iconic staircase leading to the fire tower, this hike is both historic and scenic, providing a must-see vista for hikers exploring Colorado's diverse landscape.

• Chautauqua Trail Overlook in Boulder, United States

  
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• South Mesa Trailhead in Boulder, United States

  
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  Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the South Mesa Trailhead offers an array of trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels, providing an ideal starting point to explore the diverse landscapes of Colorado. Visitors can choose from gentle paths meandering through verdant meadows blooming with wildflowers to more challenging routes that ascend steeply, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Front Range. Whether you are a day hiker looking for a leisurely stroll or an experienced adventurer seeking a rigorous trek, South Mesa Trailhead is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural beauty and varied terrain Colorado is famous for.

• Conundrum Trailhead in Aspen, United States

  
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  The Conundrum Trailhead is a gateway to adventure for hikers of all levels looking to explore the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, Colorado. As the starting point for the renowned Conundrum Hot Springs hike, this trailhead offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with the payoff being a soak in natural alpine hot springs at an elevation of about 11,200 feet. Whether you're an experienced backpacker or an enthusiastic starter, be prepared for a full-day trek or an overnight experience surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.

• Emerald Lake in Estes Park, United States

  
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  Emerald Lake is a gem nestled within Rocky Mountain National Park, providing a captivating hike for adventurers of all skill levels. The trail leading to the lake spans approximately 3.5 miles round-trip, featuring a moderate elevation gain and showcasing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and vibrant alpine flora. As part of a hiker's guide to Colorado, Emerald Lake is often highlighted as a must-visit for its easy accessibility, clear trail markings, and the rewarding sight of the vivid emerald waters set against a dramatic mountain backdrop.

• Hanging Lake Trailhead, United States

  
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  The Hanging Lake Trailhead in Colorado offers one of the most enchanting hikes in the state, perfect for those seeking a moderate challenge and unforgettable scenery. Starting near Glenwood Springs and ascending to the crystal-clear Hanging Lake, the 1.2-mile trail winds through a stunning canyon with steep and rocky terrain, requiring sturdy footwear and a bit of stamina. A must-visit for all hiking enthusiasts, this trail rewards persistence with breathtaking views of waterfalls and the lake's otherworldly beauty, making it an essential entry in any Colorado hiking guide.