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8 of the Best Hiking Trails in Colorado

Hiking
by Tim Wenger Nov 15, 2016

It’s no secret that Colorado has some of the best hiking in the United States. From summiting 14,000-foot peaks to ducking down into deep canyons and walking peaceful riverside trails, the Centennial State has something for everybody. This list highlights two of the state’s famed ’14ers’ as well as options for families, day trips, and covers the corners of the state so that no matter where you are, you can begin planning the next outing.

Editor’s note: These spots are all taken directly from travelstoke®, a new app from Matador that connects you with fellow travelers and locals, and helps you build trip itineraries with spots that integrate seamlessly into Google Maps and Uber. Download the app to add any of the spots below directly to your future trips.

1. Rim Rock Trail

 Rim Rock TrailFranktown, United StatesCastlewood Canyon is a great place for families and those looking for a relaxed day hike. Rim Rock Trail is a 4.5 mile loop Trail that provides great views of the canyon and surrounding state park. It can be busy on weekends.

2. Mount Yale

 Mount YaleBuena Vista, United StatesMount Yale is a 14,196 for pekanaccessible via the Denny Creek Trail. The hike is aboit 9.5 miles roundtrip and takes 6-8 hours. The views of the Collegiate Peaks and central Colorado are amazing, and the hike is of above average difficulty so there are not large crowds.

3. Monument Canyon Trail

 Monument Canyon TrailGrand Junction, United StatesThe Colorado National Monument is spectacularly beautiful, and this Trail is the best way to take it in. 11.4 miles out and back Trail, it is heavily trafficked but the views are amazing and it is easily accessible from anywhere in the Grand Junction area.

4. Chataque Trail

 Chautauqua TrailBoulder, United StatesHiking around the Flatirons just outside of Boulder is an easy way to get out of the city and do a simple day hike. There are a few different options, I really like the Chataqua Trail to the Bluebell Mesa Trail, great views and perfect for families.

5. Lily Mountain Trail

 Lily Mountain TrailEstes Park, United StatesLily Mountain Trail is a great day hike that only takes a few hours round trip at a moderate pace, including a rest at the top. It is a 3.8 mile out and back Trail that provides gorgeous views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the areas surrounding Estes Park.

6. Clark Peak

 Clark PeakWalden, United StatesClark Peak, at 12,951 feet, is located within State Forest State Park and is a moderately challenging summit hike which takes about 5 hours round trip, depending on weather and when you go. Accessible via Jewel Lake or West Branch Trail, the Trail to the summit is challenging but the views are more than worth the effort.

7. Continental Divide Trail

 Continental Divide TrailNathrop, United StatesThe Continental Divide Trail stretches from Canada to Mexico along the divide in the Rocky Mountains. In Colorado, there are several access points near I-70, US Highway 285, and more. This photo was taken just outside of Buena Vista, where the trail crosses over Cottonwood Pass. There is a parking area and access Trail which leads to the Continental Divide.

8. Uncompaghre Peak

 Uncompahgre PeakLake City, United StatesThe hike to the summit of Uncompahgre Peak at 14,309 feet is absolutely breathtaking, perhaps the best view I’ve seen from any summit. It is possible to see almost to Grand Valley from southern Colorado. The hike takes 6-8 hours roundtrip from the Nellie Creek Trailhead, with an additional 8 miles if you must walk up the 4 wheel drive access rode. #hiking

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