If you are looking for some incredible hikes around the Rocky Mountains, look no further than colorful Colorado. Whether you are looking for an alpine adventure or a sandy sunset, this state has so many different opportunities to explore. Here are a few of my favorite Colorado trails to hike this summer.
Chautauqua Park: The Flatirons
If you are hanging out in suburban Boulder, Chautauqua Park is a perfect place to go for a day trip. Often times, the park hosts outdoor concerts which are a great way to wrap up a sunny afternoon of hiking. The trail system accommodates hikers of all ages and skill levels and offers access to the Flatirons, which are jagged rock formations that can be rope-climbed or scrambled.
Rope climbing access is clearly marked, but slab bouldering and scrambling routes are free-interpretive and are left to the discretion of the climber. Alternatively, stay on the hiking trails for a trip through forested switch-backs and enjoy the expansive view at the summit. This front-range hike is a great way to spend a sunny day in Boulder!
Switzerland Trail
If you plan to be in the Boulder area but want to hike at elevations that exceed those of the Flatirons, check out the Switzerland Trail. Enjoy a lovely drive through the mountains west of Boulder, then park at the trailhead and get started. The trail takes hikers around a mountain rim and offers stunning panoramic views of the snowcapped peaks in the distance. While the length of the trail is 14 miles, it’s also perfect for a quick out-and-back. Additionally, the trail is popular with mountain bikers and ATVs, so pick your favorite mode of transportation and enjoy the Switzerland Trail.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
For something a little bit different, head to Great Sand Dunes National Park for a little resistance hiking. Located in south-central Colorado, this park is home to Star Dune, which is the tallest sand dune in North America. From the base of the dunes, hikers have a couple of options; ambitious trekkers can take the five-hour hike to the top of Star Dune, but there are plenty of other dunes to conquer in a smaller amount of time. Additionally, note that there are several forested trails which offer some much-needed shade from the blazing sun. Regardless of what you decide to do, bring plenty of water and note that the sand can reach 150 degrees F in peak temperatures!
Rocky Mountain National Park
While we’re on the subject of National Parks, it would be negligent not to mention Rocky Mountain National Park. High above the front range, this reserve offers a panoramic, alpine wonderland to visitors who wish to explore. The National Park Service recommends several day hikes that suit a variety of needs, from waterfall hikes to summit hikes. Ranging in length from 0.3 miles to six miles, these trails take hikers through lush forests and vast alpine tundra to cascading waterfalls and refreshing lakes. Summertime is ideal for any of these trails because the snow has melted and the wildflowers are in full bloom!
However, if you are looking for something a bit more challenging in the park, test your skills at the mighty Long’s Peak. Soaring above the neighboring peaks at 14,259 feet, summiting this “14er” is no small feat. One popular route is the Keyhole Route, but be aware that this is not strictly a hike; it’s a climb, and a technical climb at that. If this would be your first 14er, conquer a few others first before attempting this one. However, if you are a seasoned hiker and climber with proper equipment and a few buddies, go for it! Always check the weather forecast before attempting a trek like this one, but be ready for incredible views at the top.
Ice Lake Basin
Down in southwest Colorado, the San Juan Mountains are home to the Ice Lake Basin trail. This 8 mile loop trail brings hikers across challenging terrain and a 3,000 foot elevation gain to two beautiful blue lakes, aptly named lower and upper. Note that the trail can be covered in snow and the lakes can be frozen over well into June, so be prepared for a variety of temperatures and conditions during your hike. The mountain views and the ice-blue lakes are well worth the work!
Getting to Colorado
You can fly to Denver pretty easily from anywhere in the U.S. with many flights on United and Southwest as well as almost all other carriers. Depending on where you decide to hike, it could make sense to fly into one of Colorado’s smaller airports, but note that flight availability tends to be much more limited and flight prices much higher.
Assuming you do fly into Denver, you’ll most likely want to rent a car. And don’t forget about visiting Timberline Steakhouse, a Priority Pass Restaurant. You can get Priority Pass access from a number of credit cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Platinum Card from American Express.
What are some of your favorite outdoor hikes?
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