Colorado isn’t just known for its cannabis industry and a welcomed placed to enjoy a CBD vape pen. It’s also state known for its natural beauty, making it one of the most popular hiking destinations in the United States. From Alpine Meadows and towering mountain scapes, it is home to dozens of national parks and forests and countless miles of trails located in every corner of the Centennial State. So, we’ve compiled a list of our eleven favorite places to hike in Colorado this summer.
And what better way to enjoy your adrenaline-fueled summer adventures than with a little help from Lively – our designer Sativa vape pen? With a 2:1 CBG to CBD ratio, Lively is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities with vitality and exuberance. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike that the whole family can enjoy or a strenuous trek to get your heart pumping, Colorado has a trail for you!
So grab your hiking boots and your Lively vape pen, and hit the trails! Here are our eleven favorite places to hike in Colorado:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular destinations to enjoy Colorado’s dramatic landscapes. The park spans more than 400 square miles and offers a wide variety of trails to suit all levels of experience that wind through forests, across meadows, and up mountainsides. In addition, the park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer. The Rocky Mountain National Park is also renowned for its stunning views. On a clear day, hikers can see for miles in all directions. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, the Rocky Mountain National Park is sure to not disappoint.
Steamboat
Colorado is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are few better places to marvel at the state’s beauty than Steamboat Springs. In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Steamboat boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails in Colorado. Whether you want to take a quick walk to the base of a waterfall, test your balance on a rocky ridge, or trek deep into the wilderness with your camping gear, you will not be at a loss for trails in and around Steamboat Springs. In addition, the town’s mild summer temperatures make it a perfect destination for those who want to escape the heat. So pack your hiking boots and head to Steamboat this summer for an unforgettable adventure.
San Juan Mountains
The San Juans offer some of the best hiking in Colorado, with towering peaks and pristine valleys. The San Juans are one of the few mountain ranges in Colorado that remain snow-capped year-round, making them a popular destination for summertime hikes. We recommend hiking around Ice Lake Basin to view ‘Caribbean Ocean Blue’ glacial lakes. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, the San Juan Mountains have something to offer.
Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark with towering red rock formations and breathtaking views. Hiking trails wind through the park, giving visitors an up-close look at the landscape. The Garden of the Gods is also home to wildlife including bighorn sheep and deer. With its sunny weather and incredible scenery, the Garden of the Gods is an ideal place to hike during Colorado’s 300 days of summer.
Maroon Bells
One of the best places to hike in Colorado is the Maroon Bells. The Maroon Bells are two peaks located in the White River National Forest. They get their name from the maroon color of the rocks that make up the peaks. The Maroon Bells are a popular spot for hiking because of their scenic beauty. Hikers can also enjoy views of Aspen, Colorado, from the top of the Maroon Bells. If you’re looking for a Colorado hiking destination full of beauty and adventure, the Maroon Bells should be at the top of your list!
Mesa Verde National Park
With its towering red-rock cliffs and stunning views of the Colorado River, the Mesa Verde National Park is a popular destination for hikers worldwide. However, what makes Mesa Verde genuinely unique is its rich cultural history. The park is home to the remains of an ancient Native American civilization, and visitors can explore cliff dwellings and petroglyphs left behind by the original residents. If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer hiking experience, Mesa Verde shouldn’t be missed.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the state’s crown jewels. With towering dunes that rise to 750 feet, it’s easy to feel like you’re in another world while hiking in the park. The sand is also surprisingly cool, even in the summer heat. At night, the dunes are illuminated by a blanket of stars. It’s no wonder the park was recently named one of the ten best places to hike by National Geographic.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Colorado is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is home to some of the most dramatic and rugged scenery in Colorado. The Black Canyon is a deep and narrow gorge that was carved out over millions of years by the Gunnison River. The canyon walls are steep and sheer, rising to 2,000 feet in some places. Hiking in the Black Canyon is an adventure unlike any other, and it’s a great way to experience Colorado’s unique geological features up close.
Colorado National Monument
One of the best places to hike in Colorado this summer is the Colorado National Monument. This national monument is located in western Colorado and is known for its dramatic red rock formations. There are numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy beginner trails to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. The Colorado National Monument is also great for enjoying the outdoors, with plenty of opportunities for picnicking, stargazing, and wildlife watching. So if you’re looking for a summer hiking destination, add the Colorado National Monument to your list.
Manitou Incline
The Manitou Incline is an old cable car line that has been converted into a popular hiking trail that ascends one of the state’s tallest mountains. The track is well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable hike for people of all ages and experience levels. Manitou incline is mainly shaded by trees, providing relief from the heat. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a scenic place to enjoy the outdoors, Manitou Incline is one of the best places to hike in Colorado this summer.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. Situated just west of Fort Collins, the reservoir offers a variety of trails that wind through the surrounding foothills. In the summer months, the area is a haven for hikers, bikers, and runners seeking to escape the heat. The views from the top of Horsetooth Mountain are truly breathtaking, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Rocky Mountains. So come on out and enjoy all that Colorado has to offer!
Happy hiking! Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the country, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by getting out on the trails! With Lively by your side, you’ll surely have an enjoyable and memorable experience. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore! Colorado awaits.
Do you have a favorite Colorado hiking trail? Let us know in the comments below!