Five Hikes to Check Out on Your Next Visit to Colorado
Colorado is known for its world-class skiing, mountains, and gorgeous scenery year round. Colorado is also known as the Sunshine State since we have 300 days of sunshine (take that Florida!). If you want to get some epic hikes in on your next visit to Colorado, look no further. Here are five of the best hikes to check out on your next visit to Colorado:
Herman Gulch
Best time to visit: June-September
Difficulty: Moderate-Challenging
Herman Gulch is a popular alpine lake hike located right off I-70 off exit 218. This hike has it all - gorgeous views of the Rockies, wildflowers and a gorgeous alpine lake at the end that makes this moderately challenging hike worth it. Stop in nearby Idaho Springs to refuel after your hike is done.
Garden of the Gods
Best time to visit: Year-Round
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Garden of the Gods is located south of Denver in Colorado Springs, CO. The park is known for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic landscapes. The park has a ton of trails for every experience level from wide paved trails perfect for families to more adventurous trails. Check out the Siamese Twins and Kissing Camels.
Blue Lakes
Best Time to Visit: July-September
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
Blue Lakes is a gorgeous alpine lake hike located near Ridgeway, CO. Located in the San Juan mountain range, this hike is full of breathtaking scenery the entire way. This is a moderate to difficult hike and you can even hike a nearby 14er Mt. Sneffels. Check out Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgeway or the hot springs in Ouray, CO to soothe your weary muscles.
Red Rocks
Best Time to Visit: Year-Round
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
While Red Rocks is known for its world-class concerts, its also an amazing place to hike. Take Trading Post Trail for an easy yet rewarding hike among the red rocks. You can also hike in the adjacent Matthew Winters park to get some awesome views of Red Rocks from afar.
Brainard Recreation Area
Best Time to Visit: June-October
Difficulty: Moderate
Brainard Recreation area is located in Ward, CO. This area is full of scenic and spectacular hikes including Lake Isabel. Timed reservations are required in summer. If you're visiting in winter, you can snowshoe and cross-country ski.
If you want to keep the hiking vibes going check out our Colorado Travel Soap Pack!
