It’s a new year, which means now is the time to figure out your goals and dreams for 2022 and how you plan to accomplish them. If being more active and/or seeing even more of the Centennial State is on your list of things to do, read on, as we think you should take these 12 best hikes in Colorado in 2022, one for each month of the year:

  1. Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge (Parker)

Rueter-Hess Recreation It may be one of the newest trails in Colorado, but the Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge is also one of the best, as it boasts 132 butt-busting steps via a steep incline. Need we mention that the top of the Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge also features incredible, 360-degree views? Rueter-Hess Incline, Unnamed Road, Castle Rock, CO 80108, USA

  1. Wager Bulch Road (Gunnison National Forest near Lake City)

Flickr/Jane Nearing Arguably one of the coolest historical hikes in Colorado is Wager Bulch Road, which is home to not only a stunning landscape but surprising ruins as well. Located atop the defunct mining town of Carson, Wager Bulch Road is a 7-mile, out-and-back trail that passes through many of the c. 1889 town’s abandoned homes and businesses, making for a one-of-a-kind experience. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado 81210, USA

  1. Devil’s Head Lookout Trail (Pike National Forest near Larkspur)

sfgamchick/Flickr For a Colorado hike with a killer payout, there is no better place to be than the Devil’s Head Lookout Trail: a 1.4-mile trail that begins near the popular Devil’s Head Campground and ends at the c. 1919 Devil’s Head Lookout! In addition to the can’t-beat views, the  Devil’s Head Lookout is a history lover’s dream come true, as it is the last lookout tower of its kind in the region, and definitely one of the best hikes in Colorado. Devil’s Head Lookout, S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA

  1. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge (Commerce City)

Wikimedia Commons/Oborseth Whether you are out exploring kid-friendly hikes around Denver or just want to get a closer look at area wildlife, you will want to visit the suburban gem that is the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Showcasing 15,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, Rocky Mountain Arsenal is home to 330 species of animals that can be seen via the area’s 10 miles of easy to moderate trails.  Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, 6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City, CO 80022, USA

  1. Rim Rock Nature Trail (Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park near Gunnison)

AllTrails/Griffin H Are you looking for a hike that is both short and sweet? Then we have what exactly what you are looking for via the 1.5-mile out-and-back Rim Rock Nature Trail! Not only is Rim Rock among the group of easy hikes in Colorado, it is surrounded by incredible landscape and jaw-dropping views of the must-see Black Canyon of the Gunnison.  Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado 81416, USA

  1. Yankee Boy Basin (San Juan Mountains near Ouray)

Flickr/Brendan Bombaci You have read “The Secret Garden” and have maybe even dreamed of having your own hidden oasis, which is where the little-known Yankee Boy Basin comes into play. Featuring off-roading, camping, and wildlife sightings, Yankee Boy Basin is also home to a 9.3-mile point-to-point trail that is chock-full of colorful flowers and flora. It is definitely one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado! Yankee Boy Basin, Colorado 81432, USA

  1. Paradise Cove (Florrisant)

TripAdvisor/Heaban11 In the summertime, when the weather is high, nothing beats a dip in a refreshing swimming hole like Paradise Cove, which comes complete with a 1-mile out-and-back trail and picturebook surroundings. Florissant, CO 80816, USA

  1. Paint Mines Archeological District (Calhan)

Flickr/Bryce Bradford Welcome to the exciting and colorful Paint Mines Archaeological District: a whopping 750-acres that were once home to Native Americans some 9,000 years ago. In total, the area houses 4 miles of walking trails, all of which run through the Mines’ many chalky and colorful spires (pictured). Calhan Paint Mines Archeological District, Paint Mine Open Space, Paint Mine Rd, Calhan, CO 80808, USA

  1. Gnome Road (Red Feather Lakes)

Red Feather Lakes Elf Lane Facebook You are not dreaming, Coloradan, as Gnome Road is a real place and is as magical as it sounds! Arguably the happiest trail in Colorado, Gnome Road (or Elf Lane) spans 1/4-mile and passes through numerous scenes, including gnome’s homes, hidden fairies, storybook characters, and more. Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, USA

  1. Carter Lake (Loveland)

TripAdvisor/nsurdulescu If you are looking for a spooky hike during the spookiest time of the year, look no further than Carter Lake. Located in Loveland, Carter Lake is said to be the final resting place of a man named Bennet who lived in the area 100+ years ago and was shot and killed over a land dispute. While this is obviously a legend, countless visitors have shared that they have encountered the shadow of a man in old fashioned clothes who disappears whenever approached. Coincidence? You decide.  Carter Lake, Colorado 81621, USA

  1. Hanging Lake (Glenwood Springs)

AllTrails/Rob Farwell Hanging Lake is a popular destination in the summer and fall months, but did you know that it is equally gorgeous when frozen and covered in snow? Now you do (and we highly recommend you check out this incredible Colorado landmark for yourself!).  Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA

  1. Blossoms of Light (Denver Botanic Gardens)

Denver Botanic Gardens Okay, so technically, this isn’t a hike, but you know we couldn’t talk about a December trek without sharing something holiday-related! Taking place every holiday season, the 24-acre Denver Botanic Gardens becomes a real-life winter wonderland complete with decorated trees and ponds, state-of-the-art animated LED lights, and other festive surprises.  Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, USA

For even more of our favorite Centennial State trails, check out The Unique Hike In Colorado That Leads You To Plane Wreckage From 1943.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes In Colorado May 31, 2022 Lysa Allman-Baldwin What are some of the best waterfall hikes in Colorado? Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the nation, and as such, it is home to some of the most amazing waterfalls.  Among them are Maxwell Falls Lower Trail in Evergreen, Adams Falls in Grand Lake, and Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride, just to name a few. Each one offers its own unique setting and beauty. Are there any scenic hikes in Denver? Absolutely! Denver offers a great deal more than just the historic capital, fantastic music, outstanding gastronomy, and exciting performing arts. The scenic beauty found throughout the city and surrounding area is ripe with great scenic hikes. Where can I find kid-friendly hikes around Denver? It’s easy to find kid-friendly hikes around Denver that are easy enough for the little ones, but still offer some excitement for their grown-up companions. Surprisingly enough, many of them are located in the mountains, each promising wonderful outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. The next time I’m searching for historic “hiking trails near me” in Colorado, which ones should I consider? That’s a great question and a theme that leads to some interesting places. Because of its location in the country, and the wide array of frontiersmen and women who traversed the landscape during Colorado’s early founding, there are several places, like Chimney Rock National Monument in Archuleta County, for example, that offer some of the most extraordinary ruins in the state. What are some Colorado Waterfalls Road Trips? You betcha! If you’ve got a few days, there is a big 630-mile-plus loop circling from Alamosa in the south, to Glenwood Springs in the Northwest, to just outside of the Denver Metro Area in the Northeast, and then south along Interstate 25 that showcases some of the best waterfalls in Colorado.  

  1. Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge (Parker)

Rueter-Hess Recreation It may be one of the newest trails in Colorado, but the Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge is also one of the best, as it boasts 132 butt-busting steps via a steep incline. Need we mention that the top of the Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge also features incredible, 360-degree views? Rueter-Hess Incline, Unnamed Road, Castle Rock, CO 80108, USA

  1. Wager Bulch Road (Gunnison National Forest near Lake City)

Flickr/Jane Nearing Arguably one of the coolest historical hikes in Colorado is Wager Bulch Road, which is home to not only a stunning landscape but surprising ruins as well. Located atop the defunct mining town of Carson, Wager Bulch Road is a 7-mile, out-and-back trail that passes through many of the c. 1889 town’s abandoned homes and businesses, making for a one-of-a-kind experience. Gunnison National Forest, Colorado 81210, USA

  1. Devil’s Head Lookout Trail (Pike National Forest near Larkspur)

sfgamchick/Flickr For a Colorado hike with a killer payout, there is no better place to be than the Devil’s Head Lookout Trail: a 1.4-mile trail that begins near the popular Devil’s Head Campground and ends at the c. 1919 Devil’s Head Lookout! In addition to the can’t-beat views, the  Devil’s Head Lookout is a history lover’s dream come true, as it is the last lookout tower of its kind in the region, and definitely one of the best hikes in Colorado. Devil’s Head Lookout, S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA

  1. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge (Commerce City)

Wikimedia Commons/Oborseth Whether you are out exploring kid-friendly hikes around Denver or just want to get a closer look at area wildlife, you will want to visit the suburban gem that is the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Showcasing 15,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, Rocky Mountain Arsenal is home to 330 species of animals that can be seen via the area’s 10 miles of easy to moderate trails.  Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, 6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City, CO 80022, USA

  1. Rim Rock Nature Trail (Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park near Gunnison)

AllTrails/Griffin H Are you looking for a hike that is both short and sweet? Then we have what exactly what you are looking for via the 1.5-mile out-and-back Rim Rock Nature Trail! Not only is Rim Rock among the group of easy hikes in Colorado, it is surrounded by incredible landscape and jaw-dropping views of the must-see Black Canyon of the Gunnison.  Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado 81416, USA

  1. Yankee Boy Basin (San Juan Mountains near Ouray)

Flickr/Brendan Bombaci You have read “The Secret Garden” and have maybe even dreamed of having your own hidden oasis, which is where the little-known Yankee Boy Basin comes into play. Featuring off-roading, camping, and wildlife sightings, Yankee Boy Basin is also home to a 9.3-mile point-to-point trail that is chock-full of colorful flowers and flora. It is definitely one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado! Yankee Boy Basin, Colorado 81432, USA

  1. Paradise Cove (Florrisant)

TripAdvisor/Heaban11 In the summertime, when the weather is high, nothing beats a dip in a refreshing swimming hole like Paradise Cove, which comes complete with a 1-mile out-and-back trail and picturebook surroundings. Florissant, CO 80816, USA

  1. Paint Mines Archeological District (Calhan)

Flickr/Bryce Bradford Welcome to the exciting and colorful Paint Mines Archaeological District: a whopping 750-acres that were once home to Native Americans some 9,000 years ago. In total, the area houses 4 miles of walking trails, all of which run through the Mines’ many chalky and colorful spires (pictured). Calhan Paint Mines Archeological District, Paint Mine Open Space, Paint Mine Rd, Calhan, CO 80808, USA

  1. Gnome Road (Red Feather Lakes)

Red Feather Lakes Elf Lane Facebook You are not dreaming, Coloradan, as Gnome Road is a real place and is as magical as it sounds! Arguably the happiest trail in Colorado, Gnome Road (or Elf Lane) spans 1/4-mile and passes through numerous scenes, including gnome’s homes, hidden fairies, storybook characters, and more. Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, USA

  1. Carter Lake (Loveland)

TripAdvisor/nsurdulescu If you are looking for a spooky hike during the spookiest time of the year, look no further than Carter Lake. Located in Loveland, Carter Lake is said to be the final resting place of a man named Bennet who lived in the area 100+ years ago and was shot and killed over a land dispute. While this is obviously a legend, countless visitors have shared that they have encountered the shadow of a man in old fashioned clothes who disappears whenever approached. Coincidence? You decide.  Carter Lake, Colorado 81621, USA

  1. Hanging Lake (Glenwood Springs)

AllTrails/Rob Farwell Hanging Lake is a popular destination in the summer and fall months, but did you know that it is equally gorgeous when frozen and covered in snow? Now you do (and we highly recommend you check out this incredible Colorado landmark for yourself!).  Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA

  1. Blossoms of Light (Denver Botanic Gardens)

Denver Botanic Gardens Okay, so technically, this isn’t a hike, but you know we couldn’t talk about a December trek without sharing something holiday-related! Taking place every holiday season, the 24-acre Denver Botanic Gardens becomes a real-life winter wonderland complete with decorated trees and ponds, state-of-the-art animated LED lights, and other festive surprises.  Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, USA

For even more of our favorite Centennial State trails, check out The Unique Hike In Colorado That Leads You To Plane Wreckage From 1943.

Rueter-Hess Recreation

It may be one of the newest trails in Colorado, but the Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge is also one of the best, as it boasts 132 butt-busting steps via a steep incline. Need we mention that the top of the Rueter-Hess Incline Challenge also features incredible, 360-degree views?

Rueter-Hess Incline, Unnamed Road, Castle Rock, CO 80108, USA

Flickr/Jane Nearing

Arguably one of the coolest historical hikes in Colorado is Wager Bulch Road, which is home to not only a stunning landscape but surprising ruins as well. Located atop the defunct mining town of Carson, Wager Bulch Road is a 7-mile, out-and-back trail that passes through many of the c. 1889 town’s abandoned homes and businesses, making for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Gunnison National Forest, Colorado 81210, USA

sfgamchick/Flickr

For a Colorado hike with a killer payout, there is no better place to be than the Devil’s Head Lookout Trail: a 1.4-mile trail that begins near the popular Devil’s Head Campground and ends at the c. 1919 Devil’s Head Lookout! In addition to the can’t-beat views, the  Devil’s Head Lookout is a history lover’s dream come true, as it is the last lookout tower of its kind in the region, and definitely one of the best hikes in Colorado.

Devil’s Head Lookout, S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA

Wikimedia Commons/Oborseth

Whether you are out exploring kid-friendly hikes around Denver or just want to get a closer look at area wildlife, you will want to visit the suburban gem that is the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Showcasing 15,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, Rocky Mountain Arsenal is home to 330 species of animals that can be seen via the area’s 10 miles of easy to moderate trails. 

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, 6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City, CO 80022, USA

AllTrails/Griffin H

Are you looking for a hike that is both short and sweet? Then we have what exactly what you are looking for via the 1.5-mile out-and-back Rim Rock Nature Trail! Not only is Rim Rock among the group of easy hikes in Colorado, it is surrounded by incredible landscape and jaw-dropping views of the must-see Black Canyon of the Gunnison. 

Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado 81416, USA

Flickr/Brendan Bombaci

You have read “The Secret Garden” and have maybe even dreamed of having your own hidden oasis, which is where the little-known Yankee Boy Basin comes into play. Featuring off-roading, camping, and wildlife sightings, Yankee Boy Basin is also home to a 9.3-mile point-to-point trail that is chock-full of colorful flowers and flora. It is definitely one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado!

Yankee Boy Basin, Colorado 81432, USA

TripAdvisor/Heaban11

In the summertime, when the weather is high, nothing beats a dip in a refreshing swimming hole like Paradise Cove, which comes complete with a 1-mile out-and-back trail and picturebook surroundings.

Florissant, CO 80816, USA

Flickr/Bryce Bradford

Welcome to the exciting and colorful Paint Mines Archaeological District: a whopping 750-acres that were once home to Native Americans some 9,000 years ago. In total, the area houses 4 miles of walking trails, all of which run through the Mines’ many chalky and colorful spires (pictured).

Calhan Paint Mines Archeological District, Paint Mine Open Space, Paint Mine Rd, Calhan, CO 80808, USA

Red Feather Lakes Elf Lane Facebook

You are not dreaming, Coloradan, as Gnome Road is a real place and is as magical as it sounds! Arguably the happiest trail in Colorado, Gnome Road (or Elf Lane) spans 1/4-mile and passes through numerous scenes, including gnome’s homes, hidden fairies, storybook characters, and more.

Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, USA

TripAdvisor/nsurdulescu

If you are looking for a spooky hike during the spookiest time of the year, look no further than Carter Lake. Located in Loveland, Carter Lake is said to be the final resting place of a man named Bennet who lived in the area 100+ years ago and was shot and killed over a land dispute. While this is obviously a legend, countless visitors have shared that they have encountered the shadow of a man in old fashioned clothes who disappears whenever approached. Coincidence? You decide. 

Carter Lake, Colorado 81621, USA

AllTrails/Rob Farwell

Hanging Lake is a popular destination in the summer and fall months, but did you know that it is equally gorgeous when frozen and covered in snow? Now you do (and we highly recommend you check out this incredible Colorado landmark for yourself!). 

Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA

Denver Botanic Gardens

Okay, so technically, this isn’t a hike, but you know we couldn’t talk about a December trek without sharing something holiday-related! Taking place every holiday season, the 24-acre Denver Botanic Gardens becomes a real-life winter wonderland complete with decorated trees and ponds, state-of-the-art animated LED lights, and other festive surprises. 

Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes In Colorado

May 31, 2022

Lysa Allman-Baldwin

What are some of the best waterfall hikes in Colorado? Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the nation, and as such, it is home to some of the most amazing waterfalls.  Among them are Maxwell Falls Lower Trail in Evergreen, Adams Falls in Grand Lake, and Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride, just to name a few. Each one offers its own unique setting and beauty. Are there any scenic hikes in Denver? Absolutely! Denver offers a great deal more than just the historic capital, fantastic music, outstanding gastronomy, and exciting performing arts. The scenic beauty found throughout the city and surrounding area is ripe with great scenic hikes. Where can I find kid-friendly hikes around Denver? It’s easy to find kid-friendly hikes around Denver that are easy enough for the little ones, but still offer some excitement for their grown-up companions. Surprisingly enough, many of them are located in the mountains, each promising wonderful outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. The next time I’m searching for historic “hiking trails near me” in Colorado, which ones should I consider? That’s a great question and a theme that leads to some interesting places. Because of its location in the country, and the wide array of frontiersmen and women who traversed the landscape during Colorado’s early founding, there are several places, like Chimney Rock National Monument in Archuleta County, for example, that offer some of the most extraordinary ruins in the state. What are some Colorado Waterfalls Road Trips? You betcha! If you’ve got a few days, there is a big 630-mile-plus loop circling from Alamosa in the south, to Glenwood Springs in the Northwest, to just outside of the Denver Metro Area in the Northeast, and then south along Interstate 25 that showcases some of the best waterfalls in Colorado.  

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the nation, and as such, it is home to some of the most amazing waterfalls.  Among them are Maxwell Falls Lower Trail in Evergreen, Adams Falls in Grand Lake, and Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride, just to name a few. Each one offers its own unique setting and beauty.

Are there any scenic hikes in Denver?

Absolutely! Denver offers a great deal more than just the historic capital, fantastic music, outstanding gastronomy, and exciting performing arts. The scenic beauty found throughout the city and surrounding area is ripe with great scenic hikes.

Where can I find kid-friendly hikes around Denver?

It’s easy to find kid-friendly hikes around Denver that are easy enough for the little ones, but still offer some excitement for their grown-up companions. Surprisingly enough, many of them are located in the mountains, each promising wonderful outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy.

The next time I’m searching for historic “hiking trails near me” in Colorado, which ones should I consider?

That’s a great question and a theme that leads to some interesting places. Because of its location in the country, and the wide array of frontiersmen and women who traversed the landscape during Colorado’s early founding, there are several places, like Chimney Rock National Monument in Archuleta County, for example, that offer some of the most extraordinary ruins in the state.

What are some Colorado Waterfalls Road Trips?

You betcha! If you’ve got a few days, there is a big 630-mile-plus loop circling from Alamosa in the south, to Glenwood Springs in the Northwest, to just outside of the Denver Metro Area in the Northeast, and then south along Interstate 25 that showcases some of the best waterfalls in Colorado.