Take a Walk: Scenic Hikes, Strolls & Snowshoe Treks
Whether you are searching for a gorgeous snowshoe destination in the high country, a challenging trail to hike with the sun on your shoulders, or a leisurely walk, Colorado has beautiful trails throughout the state. Spring is a fantastic time to enjoy nature, as mountain communities still have snow-covered scenery and the Front Range begins to feel more like spring with warmer temperatures. Here are some of the top spots to explore across the state.
Boulder
Chautauqua Park
Ask any local in Boulder for hiking recommendations and you’re likely to hear a suggestion of Chautauqua Park Trailhead. Located along Baseline Road, this park has been preserved since 1898. Without leaving town, you can enjoy access to a trail system with gorgeous views of the iconic Flatirons. Stop by the Ranger Cottage when you arrive for maps and tips on which trails to enjoy that day.
Located west of Boulder, Betasso Preserve has gently sloped terrain with expansive views of the foothills for a beautiful walking or hiking destination. Trails include Canyon Loop, which is 3.3 miles, and Benjamin Loop, which is 2.4 miles, as well as shorter options.
Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods
With towering rock formations that reach over 300 feet tall, Garden of the Gods is a stunning landmark near Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak with over 21 miles of hiking trails. Each morning at 10:30, meet at the Visitor and Nature Center for a 45 – 60 minute guided walk along the Gateway Trail and Central Garden Trail while learning about the park.
With a canyon that’s chiseled 1,000 feet deep into the granite and North Cheyenne Creek running through the valley, North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers an extensive trail system with challenging terrain across its 1,600 acres. This area features a canyon that’s chiseled 1,000 feet deep into the granite for spectacular views and North Cheyenne Creek running through the bottom of the canyon. St. Mary’s Falls is a 5.9-mile out and back hike that winds through Buffalo Canyon and culminates on a 300-foot waterfall.
Crested Butte
Town Ranch
In the East Side Trails area of the Nordic Center, Town Ranch is a flat loop that’s easy to navigate for beginners. Keep an eye out for Nordic skiers as this is a well-traveled area. Dogs are permitted on this trail
If you want to bring your four-legged companion along for a snowshoe, the Pooch’s Paradise trail is part of the Nordic Center trail system near the Butte Avenue trailhead. With a base elevation of 8,900 feet, it is a 1.9-mile loop that winds around Peanut Lake with lovely views of the surrounding mountains. Note that passes are needed for dogs to enjoy this trail.
Denver
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is renowned as a music venue, with concerts planned for Summer 2025 including Sting, Leon Bridges, and James Taylor. The park also provides lots of trails for hiking and its location in Morrison west of Denver is easily accessible. The Trading Post Trail is a scenic loop that showcases stunning red rock formations and ideal for mild March weather.
If you’re looking for an easy hike in the southern part of the Denver Metro, Deer Creek Canyon Loop
is a 2-7-mile loop near Littleton. It’s near the entrance to the canyon and offers about 550 feet of elevation gain with lovely views of the surrounding foothills. Dogs are allowed on leash on this loop that’s a combination of the Meadowlark Trail and Plymouth Creek Trail.
Summit County
Sapphire Point Overlook
With outstanding views of Dillon Reservoir, the Sapphire Point Overlook Trail near Frisco is open year-round. It’s only 0.6 miles for a quick jaunt on snowshoes or hiking in summer and fall but can get icy in spots during winter months.
Summit County Rec Path
Offering 8 miles of groomed trails, the Summit County Rec path is a wonderful pace to traverse multiple areas that link Keystone, Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne. Check the latest rec path conditions on the County website.
Vail Valley
Davos Trail
This trail can be enjoyed throughout the year, for snowshoeing in winter and early spring months or hiking after the snow melts. Capture photos of surrounding mountains from this 5.7-mile trek that’s considered moderately challenging. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. Make sure to check signage as elk closures will impact this area in late spring and early summer.
The Walking Mountains Science Center campus in Avon hosts complimentary snowshoe tours with a naturalist to learn about the flora and fauna of Eagle County. Register online to secure your spot. Tours are from 2:00 – 3:00pm on Mondays through Saturdays. Dress in cold weather gear.
Telluride
Bear Creek Trail
For year-round trekking, Bear Creek Trail is a wonderful choice to wind through the Uncompahgre National Forest whether you are snowshoeing, hiking, or even or horseback. Stop for a photo with the 80-foot Bear Creek Falls in the background.
Telluride River Trail
For a mellow walk, this trail runs along the San Miguel River to the iconic Bridal Veil Falls, one of Telluride’s most beloved landmarks. It’s 4.1 miles out and back and provides access to the river as well as the kids’ fishing ponds.
Winter Park
Jim Creek Trail
This moderate trail is popular with snowshoers as well as hikers once the snow recedes. It’s a 6.9-mile journey with a gradual slope resulting in 1,100 feet of elevation gain and beautiful views of the creek it runs alongside.
Snow Mountain Ranch
The Nordic Center at Snow Mountain Ranch has gear rentals available and over 75 miles of trails to explore across its 5,100 acres. Purchase a trail pass at the Nordic Center if you’re a visitor; overnight guests and members receive complimentary access.
As spring begins, take some time to discover the many trails across the Centennial State. It’s a wonderful way to become more familiar with nature, and Colorado’s varied landscape offers an wide variety of options.
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