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Best backpacking hikes in Colorado
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Best backpacking hikes in Colorado

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Colorado.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Mayflower Lakes, Mohawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail

Summit County, Colorado · star 4.8 (4) · 13.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 48 min

2

Difficult

Longs Peak, The Keyhole and Longs Peak Trail

Larimer County, Colorado · star 4.5 (15) · 21.8 km · Est. 6 hrs 55 min

3

Medium

Crater Lakes via South Boulder Creek Trail

Gilpin County, Colorado · star 4.3 (13) · 11.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 13 min

4

Medium

Balman Reservoir, Rainbow Lake and North Lake Creek Walk

Custer County, Colorado · star 4.0 (3) · 20.9 km · Est. 5 hrs 52 min

5

Medium

Blue Lake via Oh-Be-Joyful Trail

Gunnison County, Colorado · star 4.5 (8) · 21.1 km · Est. 5 hrs 19 min

6

Medium

Continental Divide, Devil's Thumb and Arapaho Pass Loop Trail

Grand County, Colorado · star 4.5 (2) · 36.0 km · Est. 2 days

7

Medium

Wheeler Geologic Area via Wheeler NM Trail

Mineral County, Colorado · star 4.3 (7) · 27.3 km · Est. 7 hrs 3 min

8

Easy

Peaks to Plains Trail

Jefferson County, Colorado · star 4.4 (5) · 12.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

9

Difficult

Mount Columbia and Mount Harvard via Horn Fork Basin Loop Trail

Chaffee County, Colorado · star 4.6 (8) · 23.5 km · Est. 2 days

10

Medium

Willow Lakes and Salmon Lake via Gore Range Trail

Summit County, Colorado · star 4.5 (13) · 27.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 56 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Colorado

Rev. Elton Towne avatar

Mayflower Lakes, Mohawk Lakes via Spruce Creek Trail

WaypointBirchwanderer18 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Tim Eichlin avatar

Longs Peak, The Keyhole and Longs Peak Trail

Tim · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Karla Bahringer Jr. avatar

Crater Lakes via South Boulder Creek Trail

HikerMapmaster65 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Alexander Lakin avatar

Balman Reservoir, Rainbow Lake and North Lake Creek Walk

ThicketVoyager99 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Leon Witting avatar

Blue Lake via Oh-Be-Joyful Trail

SpruceSummiter56 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Colorado

What is the climate like for hiking in Colorado?

In Colorado, a hiker's paradise, weather conditions can vary greatly by season and elevation. Generally, the state experiences a sunny, dry climate, making it a year-round hiking destination.
Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather and is typically the best time to tackle high-altitude hikes in the Rocky Mountains, as trails are mostly free from snow. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early starts are recommended.
Winter (December through February) brings snow and cold temperatures, especially at high elevations, making some trails inaccessible. But for the prepared adventurer, winter hiking or snowshoeing can offer a unique and serene experience. Always check local weather conditions before setting out. For trail updates and weather info, visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://climate.colorado.gov/]

Do I need a permit to hike in Colorado?

While most Colorado trails are free, some popular areas, like Hanging Lake or Rocky Mountain National Park, require permits or reservations to manage visitor impact. Permits can typically be obtained online in advance. Contact the relevant park management or Colorado Parks & Wildlife for specifics. [Link: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm]

Is wild camping allowed in Colorado?

Wild camping, often referred to as dispersed camping, is generally permitted in Colorado's National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas, unless otherwise posted. Hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles and fire restrictions. Always check specific regulations with the managing agency. [Link: www.fs.usda.gov]

Are there mountain rescue services in Colorado?

In the event of a hiking emergency in Colorado, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) coordinates rescue efforts in the mountainous terrains. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a charged cell phone. [Link: https://coloradosar.org/]

Are there dangerous plants in Colorado?

Colorado's diverse landscapes offer a variety of flora. Alpine regions feature tundra wildflowers, while lower elevations host pine forests and aspen groves. Hikers should respect the delicate ecosystem and avoid trampling wildflowers. The Colorado Native Plant Society website provides comprehensive information. [Link: www.conps.org]

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Colorado?

Colorado's trails reveal an array of wildlife, from elk and deer in the Rocky Mountain National Park to marmots and pikas in alpine areas. Be bear-aware, particularly in forested areas, and mindful of smaller critters like ticks and mosquitoes. For wildlife safety tips, refer to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://dnr.colorado.gov/divisions/colorado-parks-wildlife]

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