With eight national monuments, four national parks, and 42 state parks, there’s more than enough room for everyone to enjoy the outdoors in Colorado.
5 Beautiful Trails in Colorado to Hike Right Now
An undulating hike through some of Southwestern Colorado's most spectacular scenery.
Ouray Perimeter Trail
"Ouray is known as the “Little Switzerland of the Rockies” and it’s easy to see why. The large mountains surrounding the town are coated in striking green trees (or yellow in fall) and cold rock similar to the European country." Sarah Lamagna
Hike up to "beach" hang-out nearly 11,000 feet above sea level.
Lake Isabelle
"There are several beautiful lakes in Brainard Lake Recreation Area, but Lake Isabelle truly takes the cake when it comes to scenery." Sarah Lamagna
See natural arches without the crowds of a Utah national park.
Rattlesnake Arches
"It has the largest concentration of red sandstone arches outside of the famed Arches National Park in Utah. The crowds are nowhere near as large as those you’d find in Colorado’s four national parks throughout the state (or Arches, for that matter)." Sarah Lamagna
A quintessential Colorado hike to one of the state’s most stunning spots.
Hanging Lake
"A 'best hikes in Colorado' list isn’t complete without mentioning Hanging Lake. It defies gravity, perched on the edge of a cliff in White River National Forest." Sarah Lamagna
Why you should go: To see your alpine dreams in real life.
Dream and Emerald Lakes
"Hallett Peak is the jaw-dropping backdrop for both lakes and perfect for taking some epic RMNP photos." Sarah Lamagna