Travel over the off-road driving trail (either on foot or by 4×4) and reach the Alta Ghost Town. Pretty enough but not safe to do alone because of all of the homeless. Distance: 9.7 milesElevation: 1,643 feetDifficulty: Moderate to DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: If you plan on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll need to pay the $25 entrance fee. Seven Bridges Trail is a local favorite just outside of Colorado Springs that features a beautiful 3.7-mile out and back hike with a 1000 foot elevation gain. Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers a variety of trails that wind along the canyons and ridges of red rock and provide great views of the Garden of the Gods. Another long-distance doozy, the Twin Crater Lakes hike is well-worth a backpack, unless you have hiking super-powers, in which case, it technically can be done in a day. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls beneath towering rock formations or challenging hikes and rides through alpine forests, we have the trail for you. For a real adventure, combine your lake hike in Colorado with an overnight at a yurt. When it comes to the best lake hikes in Colorado, this post has it all. This is a fairly popular loop, so expect higher amounts of traffic on the weekends and holidays. You’ll have the added bonus of passing two additional scenic alpine lakes along the way. Go right, crossing the small footbridge spanning Trout Creek, the small creek that feeds the reservoir. Don’t be fooled by the lack of elevation gain either, this hike has some really amazing views. It’s great for jogging and some of the trails are suitable for cycling too. In reality, you can make your way to an alpine lake any time of the year. Also, don’t be an ass, you are not allowed to swim or climb around on the logs here. We only promote products that we have thoroughly investigated and believe provide real value to you. In the summer, this is one of the best and easiest lake hikes in Colorado. Winter enthusiasts can snowshoe the two to three miles up to the yurt and then onwards 2.5 miles to the lake. Also, keep in mind there are restrictions on where you can walk, so be respectful of signs and regulations. This trail is well-used but has an interesting start as you make your way up next to and around a huge railway tunnel. Try looking in your promotions folder. Crater Lakes, James Peak Wilderness. Moderate/Difficult. What are you waiting for? That bridge in Royal Gorge Park looks menacing a bit, indeed. No dogs. This moderate trail evokes a classic Colorado Rocky Mountain charm. Chicago Lakes is a popular hiking trail in the Mount Evans Wilderness that has two magnificent lakes with stellar views towards the foothills and of Mount Evans. Flat easy to follow trail that goes by the rock cliffs. As an avid outdoors enthusiast and world traveler she's determined to discover the remote corners of the planet. If you’re looking for a moderate jaunt with big view payout, check out Silver Dollar Lake outside of Georgetown. Not many people venture to the mountain ranges down south, so expect lots of solitude. Hiked on 9/25. All have toilets and water. This hike also has a waterfall. Lake Isabelle is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado (add about five miles round trip for the winter hike). If you’re looking for short, sweet, and steep with incredible views, Windsor Lake near Leadville is an awesome choice. 4. This truly-epic alpine lake hike is long, but worth the effort. Image via Sarbjit Bahga. On the way you’ll pass three additional lakes, including the iconic Dream Lake. Here are the best waterfalls near Colorado Springs, CO, in no particular order: 1. The beginning of the trail comprises of mountain stairs that are uneven and not paved, and when you go, you will not be surprised to see many people waiting to catch their breaths on the side of the trail. The owner and editor of Dayhikes Near Denver, Aaron writes every trail profile as a local guide who has hiked hundreds of miles of trails along the Front Range and deep in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. 8 to 4 miles Round TripElevation: Depends. Thank you for sign up! Colorado is filled with countless beautiful hikes, each one more unique than the last. I-70 Corridor. This new 3-mile trail (round-trip) is part of the Intemann Trail and provides access to a summit that was only recently open to the public. The 585 acres can be accessed via two trailheads. If you love the good rush of water and being surrounded by vivacious trees, this hike is for you. Top Pagosa Springs Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in Pagosa Springs, Colorado on Tripadvisor. This is why we recommend hiking the loop clockwise instead of counter clockwise. Pancake Rocks, image via Mark Byzewski, Flickr. Spooky indeed! Wander the lake at sunrise for incredible views. Simply fill it out and send it along to a trusted friend. Amazing views and great trail. However, don’t be fooled by the easy accessibility. Here’s A Complete Answer [2020], 14 Easy And Delicious Camping Meals For Kids [2020], Hiking For Fat People: A Feel Better Guide (Plus Efficient Tips), How to Hike With A Tent Comfortably: An Easy Guide (2020), 5 Helpful Tips On Avoiding Rattlesnakes While Hiking [2020]. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation: 807 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: There is a $5 parking fee at both parking lots for St Mary’s. , Wow! Moderate. Dog-friendly. Outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities will find plenty of options for overlooks, winding trails, and mountain biking.