The Best Hiking Trails in Colorado’s Off the Beaten Path Places
Introduction
Hiking in Colorado is an experience like no other. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the vast expanse of the Great Plains, Colorado is a state filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. But while some of Colorado’s hiking trails are well-trodden, there are plenty of lesser-known routes that offer an equally rewarding experience. We’ve compiled a list of 12 of the best off-the-beaten-path hiking trails in the state so you can get out and explore the wilds of Colorado. Let’s take a look!
Lost Creek Wilderness
The Lost Creek Wilderness offers some of the most beautiful and secluded hiking trails in the state. The area is located in the Tarryall Mountains and features stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The trails range from easy to moderate, with a few more challenging routes for the more adventurous. The trails are well-marked and offer plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
The Rock Creek Trail
The Rock Creek Trail is a 9-mile loop that winds its way through the Lost Creek Wilderness. The trail is moderately difficult and offers a variety of different terrain, from lush meadows to dense forests. With plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, this trail is a great way to get off the beaten path and take in the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness.
The Puma Point Trail
The Puma Point Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes you to the top of a ridge in the Lost Creek Wilderness. The trail is moderately difficult and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and rocky hillsides, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The North Tarryall Trail
The North Tarryall Trail is a 7-mile loop that takes you on an adventure through the Lost Creek Wilderness. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. The trail features a variety of different terrain, including meadows, forests, rivers and streams.
San Juan Mountains
The San Juan Mountains are located in Southwestern Colorado and offer some of the most stunning views in the state. The area is filled with rugged peaks, lush forests and crystal clear streams. The trails range from easy to difficult, but they all offer breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
The Ice Lakes Trail
The Ice Lakes Trail is a 7-mile loop that takes you on an adventure through the San Juan Mountains. This trail is moderately difficult and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The Grizzly Lake Trail
The Grizzly Lake Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes you to a secluded alpine lake in the San Juan Mountains. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. The trail features a variety of different terrain, including meadows, forests and rocky hillsides, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The Continental Divide Trail
The Continental Divide Trail is a 16-mile loop that takes you on an adventure through the San Juan Mountains. This is an advanced trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are two of the most recognizable peaks in Colorado. The area features stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. The trails range from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone.
The Four Pass Loop
The Four Pass Loop is a 10-mile loop that takes you on an adventure through the Maroon Bells. This is an advanced trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The West Maroon Pass Trail
The West Maroon Pass Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes you to the top of a ridge in the Maroon Bells. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The East Maroon Trail
The East Maroon Trail is a 3-mile loop that takes you on an adventure through the Maroon Bells. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
Gore Range
The Gore Range is located in North-Central Colorado and features stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The trails range from easy to difficult, but they all offer breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
The East Ridge Trail
The East Ridge Trail is a 6-mile loop that takes you on an adventure through the Gore Range. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The Willow Lakes Trail
The Willow Lakes Trail is a 4-mile loop that takes you to a secluded alpine lake in the Gore Range. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. The trail features a variety of different terrain, including meadows, forests, rivers and streams.
The Gore Pass Trail
The Gore Pass Trail is a 5-mile loop that takes you to the top of a ridge in the Gore Range. This is a moderately difficult trail with plenty of elevation changes, so make sure you’re prepared for a challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through meadows, forests and alpine lakes, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
Summary
Colorado is a state filled with breathtaking natural beauty and plenty of opportunities for exploration. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the vast expanse of the Great Plains, the state has something for everyone. We’ve compiled a list of 12 of the best off-the-beaten-path hiking trails in the state so you can get out and explore the wilds of Colorado. From the Lost Creek Wilderness to the San Juan Mountains and the Maroon Bells, there’s something for everyone. So get out there and explore the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness!
