Hikes Throughout Colorado
1) Ouzel Falls Hike
Ouzel falls is a 5.3 mile, moderate difficulty hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, 1 hour outside of Boulder. While Ouzel falls is the main attraction on this hike, several other waterfalls can be found along the way, including the Calypso Cascades. Reservations are required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. Find more information here.
2) Chautauqua Trail & Royal Arch
This beautiful hike in Boulder can vary in difficulty depending on which trail you take. The Chautauqua trail is a moderate 1.2 mile hike. If you continue further on the same trail, the hike becomes a hard 3.1 mile hike to Royal Arch. Hiking guides to each are linked below.
Royal Arch
3) Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells is one of the most iconic hikes in Colorado. For the view below, you only have to walk a few steps from the parking lot, making it accessible for everyone. If you have more time, don’t stop there! Visit Crater Lake, a 3.5 mile moderate hike for a different view of the mountains. The best way to get to Maroon Bells is by shuttle, which runs every 15 minutes. You can make an online shuttle reservation with the Aspen Chamber of Commerce, linked below. Get shuttle & permit reservations here.
View of Maroon Bells, no hiking required
View from Crater Lake
4) Hanging Lake Hike
Hanging Lake is one of the most iconic hikes in Colorado and is located in Glenwood Springs. This moderate, 3.1 mile hike takes you along the river and ends at a gorgeous lake. Due to the popularity of this hike, a permit is required and should be obtained in advance. Get hiking permit here.
5) Paradise Cove Swimming Hole
Paradise Cove is a swimming hole and cliff diving spot accessible through a short, 1 mile hike. The cove is surrounded by trees and rocky cliffs and makes for a beautiful view even if you don’t plan on going in the water. Hiking guide can be found here.
6) Paint Mines
The Paint Mines are a series of unique rock formations with stripes of distinctive color variations. The trail that loops trough the park is more of a walk than a hike, making it good for all skill levels. It’s about an hour northeast from Colorado Springs. Find more info here.
