10 Best Hikes in Colorado

When it comes to hiking spots in Colorado, your options are truly too numerous to count, and the state’s trails offer exhilarating hikes to match all fitness and skill levels. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely, meadow-dotted stroll en route to your picnic lunch, or a lung-burning, big-peak climb — your RV can take you there.

1) Crater Lake Trail

Starting with one of the easiest selections on our list, this short hike of 3.4 miles near Aspen begins at Maroon Lake. The Crater Lake trail breaks off from the scenic trail at the .3-mile mark, so follow the signs and head higher into the valley. Take in views of Pyramid Peak and the iconic Maroon Bells as you wind through a gorgeous aspen grove that ends at the Lake.

2) Crested Butte to Aspen

If you’re into a bigger challenge while in the neighborhood, take the 10.2-mile, moderate-to-strenuous West Maroon Creek Trail that links Crested Butte and Aspen. Starting at 10,417 feet and ending at 12,870 feet, you pass by Maroon and Crater Lakes covering rocky terrain and narrow valleys. Drink in the vibrant wildflower meadows and celebrate your victory.

3) Grays Peak to Torreys Peak

Staying in Georgetown or Idaho Springs and want to witness two of Colorado’s 58 mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet? Hit the 8.35-mile round-trip trail that spans between the 14,270 foot Grays Peak and 14,267 foot Torreys Peak. It’s a strenuous effort but well worth it thanks to the panoramic views of several glaciers and the seemingly endless Rockies.

4) Chasm Lake

While you’re RVing in Estes Park, set out on the trail many consider to be the best hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. This 8.4-mile round-trip trek leads you to one of the most isolated alpine lakes in Colorado as it winds beneath majestic Longs Peak. Start at the Longs Peak Trailhead and follow the signs toward Chasm Lake.

5) Ute Trail

Another great choice in Rocky Mountain National Park is the 4.5-mile section of the Ute Trail between the Alpine Visitor Center and Milner Pass that offers a three-hour day hike with mostly downhill terrain. Look for the single wooden sign on the opposite side of Trail Ridge Road, and make your way through the pond-filled passes and 12,000-foot peaks of the Continental Divide beyond.

6) Pawnee Buttes/Grasslands

Reward yourself with an easy 4.1-mile hike through the Pawnee National Grasslands when you’re RVing in northeast Colorado. The alien-like topography makes this renowned birding destination an explorer’s wonderland. Traverse through the carved buttes, gullies, and mesas as you wind through the stunning geological landscape.

7) Mountain Lion Loop

When you’re hanging out in Golden, this moderate 7.9-mile hike is the place to find rolling hills filled with evergreen and aspen forests. A river runs right next to you on the way up to the 9,106-foot Windy Peak. The terrain is varied, and the views are jaw dropping. Take your dog, but keep her leashed.

8) Sand Dune Trail

Down in the southeast corner of Colorado you’ll find Great Sand Dunes National Park. North America’s tallest dunes rise to over 700 feet and span 30 square miles from the San Luis Valley at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Head to the main dune field, and choose from a variety of routes, ranging from the short pass over Medano Creek to the steep climb up the Park’s highest dunes that offer wide-open views across the entire area. Survey over 35 peaks in excess of 13,000 feet. Time permitting, head for High Dune, located about 1.5 miles from the parking lot at 8,790 feet.

9) Purgatory Flats Trail

Southwest Colorado is an RVer’s heaven, and Purgatory Flats Trail is an easy and very family-friendly 5.7-mile hike. You won’t find a lot of traffic on this out-and-back trail that’s located just outside Durango with super-convenient  access. Purgatory Flats is ideal for all skill levels and is especially good for people who might struggle at higher elevations. There’s a lake, a creek, and ample aspen meadows. This makes the perfect day hike for the kids, the older folks, the dog, and the picnic lunch.

10) Fourmile Falls

Surely you’ll be swinging through Pagosa Springs while you’re in the area, just an hour’s drive east of Durango. Be sure to check out this 5.5-mile, moderately trafficked out-and-back trail. You’ll find the gorgeous waterfall at mile three, dropping 300 feet from the cliff above. Horses are allowed on this Weminuche Wilderness trail, making this a bucket list outing to consider. Be sure to bring the camera for unlimited photo ops. Mule deer, meadows, and early summer snowmelt ensure that this balanced uphill and downhill trail is a wilderness hiker’s delight.

Are you itching to hit the open road and explore Colorado’s extensive array of hiking trails? The Great Outdoors RV provides the best prices and selection on new and used RVs in Evans, CO. Our dedicated consultants are 100 percent committed to your total satisfaction. Stop by, call us at 970.313.4337, or contact us online and let us know how we can help you live the RV life of your dreams!