When I think of Colorado, I think of the Rocky Mountains, of mile-high cities, and of winters full of fresh powder. But the mountains and ski towns of Colorado aren’t just for winter adventures. In the warmer months, you can also find a wealth of incredible hiking trails throughout the state. Macs Adventure’s range of hiking trips in Colorado not only granted me access to the iconic mountain towns of the Southwest region, but insight to the best hikes in the area! Not sure where to go hiking in this grand state? Here are five great hikes waiting for you in and around classic ski areas in Colorado:
Perimeter Trail (Ouray)
Ouray is a charming mountain town known as the "Switzerland of America" for its surrounding peaks and summits. The Ouray Perimeter Trail travels around the border of the town, dipping into forested river canyons and ascending into exposed viewpoints throughout its 5-mile route. While hiking around Ouray, you’ll get a chance to see various waterfalls, such as Cascade Falls and Box Canyon Falls, along with unique geologic features like the “Baby Bathtub” pools.
Maroon Bells/Crater Lake (Aspen)
Located near the town of Aspen, this short but strenuous hike leads to a stunning view of the Maroon Bells. Expect great views of multiple 14,000 ft mountains and a scenic view of Crater Lake. Along the way, you’ll see ponds with beaver dams, unique wildlife, and great mountain views throughout.
Hunter Creek Trail (Aspen)
Another Aspen favorite, this trail travels through creek-side forests before climbing into an alpine meadow with great views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains. Historic mining cabins are scattered throughout the area and finding one is a great way to better understand the unique mining history of this part of Colorado.
Ridge Trail (Telluride)
Telluride is a fantastic place to find hiking. The city offers a free gondola that runs all year to get you up into the mountains. This creates a huge number of easy to access hikes throughout the high mountains. One hike to check out is the Ridge Trail. It follows forested paths from the gondola station out to the Mountain Village area. Enjoy a beautiful hike and end the day with a great meal in a unique mountain locale. Perfect!
Bear Creek Falls (Telluride)
The massive Bear Creek Falls await as the endpoint for this fun hike right out of the center of Telluride. This trail follows an old mining road up into the hills surrounding town and winds it’s way into a narrow canyon where you can walk right up to the impressive falls.
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