most beautiful hikes in colorado

Photo Credit: kwiktor (iStock). A little more than 6 miles in, you will turn onto the, . As the bloom begins, please remember to stay on the trail and do not pick, touch, or trample the wildflowers. Sniktau is one of the best sunset hikes in Colorado. The weather is very unpredictable in Colorado. Photo Credit: Mariah Hoffman. Located in Roxborough State Park, this is one of the best easy hikes near Denver that takes you on a fun trek past some of the best scenery in the park. : Snowmass Village, CO, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, 11 miles southwest of Aspen, : An immersive multiday experience in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. Climb your way up to Island Lake (another 15 to 20-minute walk) for a scene that is simply jaw-dropping. Wildflower lovers will be delighted by the serene beauty found on the 401 Trail in Crested Butte. This spectacular out-and-back starts from Bear Lake before climbing to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake, two of the jewels of Rocky Mountain National Park. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. . According to the National Park Service, Star Dune hikers should plan for a five-hour round trip. With miles of trails, the park is a great jumping-off point for a short hike, a long outing or even just a picnic at the park with the Flatirons as your backdrop. Colorado has some of the most incredible hiking in the country. A look at the tail-end of a sunrise as it hits the boulder field just below the Keyhole. Combine this hike with one of the most scenic drives near Denver for an epic day outside. One of the best hikes in Colorado is the iconic Mirror Lake. Dog-friendly. When it comes to hiking in Colorado, there are year-round options. The natural wonder can be found just below American Peak. Mountains above 14,000 feet are known as 14ers. Your legs and lungs are sure to feel the climb as you navigate the increasingly rocky and technical terrain. Listen, Ive been on each of these hiking trails several different times. Kristen is a native Coloradan and longtime runner who enjoys running on the track, roads and now on the trails. We'd love to hear eyewitness Made famous as being one of the best rock climbing areas in Colorado, this area is also home to some amazing hikes. This is probably the most popular 14er hike in the Denver region. Seeing it dusted in snow is a true treat. You will spot one large waterfall about a mile east of Hasley Basin where the panoramic view also includes the backside of the Maroon Bells. This famous park near downtown Colorado Springs is a must-see. Welcome to some of the mostbrilliantly cobalt blue lakes in Colorado. 1. For the more alpine regions, spring can either still be winter, or it can be very muddy. Longs Peak. Distance: 14.5 milesElevation gain: 4,911 feetDifficulty: extremely difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This is not a hike to be taken lightly. This loop combines The Palmer Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and the Bretang Trail to make a tour-de-garden. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the evening. The 8.7-mile out-and-back trail climbs steeply into the mountains starting from the base of the South Mineral Valley near Silverton. If you arent cozy pooping in a bag and packing it out, stay home. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. Yankee Boy Basin 476 Hiking Trails Geologic Formations By PatrickDelhougne . : Breckenridge, CO, in the Arapaho National Forest, 88 miles southwest of Denver, Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. Others also have parking fees. Explore the most popular trails in my list 101 most beautiful hikes in colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. The trip takes about 2 hours and has chains to hold for the steep sections. Information on distance, elevation gain, location, difficulty, permit requirements, and dog-friendliness. The hike then loops back north along the Red Rocks Trail to return to the trailhead. The first snowfall up high can occur as early as the first week of September! From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the, , a flat, wide and easygoing path. Cross-referencing that app with All-Trails, or the Outbound App can prove for some awesome adventures. Can We Interest You in Some Of These Stories Instead? Rise early to catch a mountain sunrise guaranteed to leave you speechless. Distance: 8.2 milesElevation Gain: 2,870Difficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This hike becomes impassible in winter due to avalanche terrain and steep ice. Evans. And if youre feeling energetic, you can always do this hike in tandem with several other treks in the area. Everybody knows about them, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out. The La Plata Mountains can be found in southern Colorado and are normally accessed from the small town of Mancos. home by Destinee Scott ATTN: The 12 Best President's Day Mattress Sales Have Already Begun (with Savings of Up to $880) home by Brianna Lapolla Photo Credit: John Fielder. The view from the summit of Mt. In the spring, you may spot wildflowers like columbines, and there are a few groves of aspen that give a pop of golden color in the fall. Only about a 1-hour drive from downtown Denver. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography. Let me know! The lake is located at just over 10,000 feet and there may be snow on the peaks late into the summer. Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes. The best hikes in Colorado are a great way to experience the state's terrain with 39,000 miles of trails of varying lengths, difficulty levels, and scenery. If so then why not try this stellar out and back hike? Once you catch your first glimpse, it's not hard to see why this is a highly trafficked hike. Bursting with beauty, the trail features rushing alpine waters, wildflower meadows, and a variety of wildlife including bear, elk, moose, deer, and marmots. BISON PEAK 2. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. In the spring, you may spot wildflowers like columbines, and there are a few groves of aspen that give a pop of golden color in the fall. Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Much of this land has developed hiking trails, spanning 12 National Parks, 41 State Parks, and 58 mountains above 14,000 feet. Star Dune is the largest of them all. If you can, try to time your visit between late May and early June since this is when the waterfall is at its best. In fact, there are five different hikes in this area that range in length from 1 to 13 miles (round trip) and that vary in difficulty between easy and moderate. Photo Credit: Steven Bratman. The trail climbs gradually for the first 2 miles, heading south around Kelso Mountain before turning west, where you will spot the two 14ers and the saddle connecting them. Season: June, July, and August. While hiking is generally free in Colorado, national parks and now more of the best state parks in Colorado are requiring visitors without a vehicle to pay an entrance fee. As the slope increases, you will climb toward the ponderosa pines and wooded slopes of the Boulder foothills. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. If you are planning an overnight trip, you must self-register at the trailhead, and bear canisters are required. This list encompasses the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Photo Credit: Erik Sommerfeld; American Institute of Architects. For more information, please visit the town of Glenwood Springs website. There are many different factors to consider while hiking in Colorado. Generally speaking, areas above 9,000 feet in springtime are definitely still covered in snow. Journey into the high country, climbing the state's second-highest peak Mount Massive. Another unique feature is Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. 2236 Park Hill Dr, P. O. Maroon Bells in the fall. Distance: 1.6 milesElevation Gain: 232 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs are not allowed and its $25 to enter the park. GREAT Trail's,been on some of them. 2. On a calm, clear day the mountains reflections in the lake makes for a picture-perfect setting. The views are particularly stunning in the spring with the stark contrast between the red rocks and the green hillsides. The best time to visit is from July through September. Now more than 100 years old, this is the one remaining fire tower in service. Moose are often spotted grazing with their young along the grassy meadows. It also depends on the snow year. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this fire tower was one of seven built in the early 1900s. This area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado Springs. Headed back east, Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most unexpectedly beautiful places in Colorado. Photo Credit: MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski (iStock). From the deep Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the highest point in Colorado on Mount Elbert, there is a lifetime of hiking to explore. Spanning 1.1 miles, the Perkins Central Garden . Leave it better than how you found. As you climb, keep your eyes open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas. This gentle trail meanders its way along a deep sandstone canyon where you can admire monolithic sandstone towers whose beauty rivals that of nearby Moab. In many parts of the state, fall colors highlight the woods. In fact, this is one of the best lake hikes in Colorado and hiking Lake Haiyaha is a real treat for winter. Mt. This awesome, 6 mile out-and-back trail takes you through the exquisite Flat Tops Wilderness area near Yampa, Colorado. The first mile is a gentle climb, winding through red rock formations and scrub oak. The beautiful scenery passes by a few small lakes and ponds before the final push to Ptarmigan Lake. The incredibly large region of the San Juan mountains includes some of the highest and most rugged hiking in the state. There are several large waterfalls along the way including the trails namesake, Cascade Falls, a particularly scenic multitiered waterfall that you will get an up-close look at as the trail switchbacks from the base of the falls to the top. Also named Emerald Lake, these majestic alpine waters can be explored near the iconic mountain town of Crested Butte. GARDEN OF THE GODS CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL 6. This hike is for experienced hikers only. Different public lands have different guidelines and restrictions, so it is important to be familiar with the area that you are hiking in. If you are looking for the quintessential Indian Peaks hike, the out-and-back to Crater Lake from Monarch Lake offers a great mix of scenery and terrain, as well as a stunning destination. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the winter. With a 14.5 mile round trip and over 5,000 ft elevation gain, this peak will challenge you in every way possible, but the end reward will be absolutely priceless. Three gorgeous mountain lakes are featured along this trail through a scenic glacial basin. The area around the trail ( McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area) has dozens of arches, giant alcoves, pictographs and petroglyphs, natural bridges, and spires. Breathtaking is an appropriate way to describe the loop in many ways, as the route gains more than 7,300 feet and climbs above 12,000 feet at four different passesBuckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Airand West Maroon. : Manitou Springs, CO, in Bear Creek Canyon Regional Park, 5 miles west of Colorado Springs, : An aerobic challenge with a rewarding view, This loop is a mix of aerobically challenging climbing combined with pleasant views. : Estes Park, CO, in Rocky Mountain National Park, 50 miles northwest of Boulder, : A tour of three picturesque lakes in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, With more than 300 miles of trails and some of the best-known scenery in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-loved hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. Please be sure to visit the RMNP website for more information on the current permitting process for parking and entrance to the park. Grays (14,270')and Torreys (14,267') are situated along the Continental Divide within the Arapaho National Forest near the small town of Idaho Springs. They are among the most photographed mountains in the country. It is between the San Juans and the I-70 corridor. From Grays, continue down the north ridge across the saddle between the two peaks to climb Torreys. Some of the most amazing landscape shots from Colorado occur during fall colors and that first snowfall. The 14,259 ft Longs Peak is one of the most climbed 14ers in Colorado thanks to its convenient location. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. Hiking has been a popular Colorado activity since the Colorado Trail was created in the 1970s. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. Theres a saying in Colorado that goes west slope best slope. This area of the state isnt as easy to access compared to other hiking areas closer to Denver. There was an error processing your request. The towering red rock formations of Garden of the Gods create a memorable backdrop for this easily accessible hike located minutes from downtown Colorado Springs. Palmer Park: Best Hiking Trail in Colorado Springs. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. accounts, the history behind an article. Hikes near towns such as Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen will be included in this area. Continue on the Emerald Lake Trail, which follows the north shore of Dream Lake and continues to climb for another half mile. This is one of Colorados most famous lakes. So, try and visit on a quiet weekday morning to avoid the crowds and take in the Fountain and Lyons rock formations that surround you. Local Tip: This trail has been undergoing restoration work and will re-open on June 25th, 2022. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to world-class hiking trails. Photo Credit: ablokhin (iStock). A small baggie to pack out trash such as fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper, and other waste. See my guide to hiking Colorado 14ers for more info. Distance: 2.5 milesElevation Gain: 885 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. This is available as a desktop version as well on iPhone and Android. Colorado National Monument is one of the best winter hiking destinations in Colorado. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? Featuring hiking trails found throughout the state, theres a breathtaking hike virtually anywhere! Like other 14er hikes, it is very important to start early and end early. While you wont fully escape the traffic noise of the nearby highways, the park is still a pleasant and convenient getaway due to its proximity to Golden and the western suburbs of Denver. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Vertical. Its a popular, but challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will take you through the gorgeous, Mount Evans Wilderness area. These hikes are much harder to get to but provide more solitude and more adventure than hiking in other parts of the state. Start no later than 2 am. You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. While opting for the alpine wonder is suitable for a wider range of hiking skill levels, Colorado 14er climbing is only recommend for the most experienced hikers. Longs Peak (Estes Park) Every peak bagger should add the 14,259-foot summit of Longs Peak to their bucket list. I was disappointed to not see FERN LAKE and other hikes in RMNP on the list. Teens and pre-teens are one of the most sought-after spending crowds, with retailers looking for ways to win their business. The trail heads deeper into Tyndall Gorge until reaching Emerald Lake, which is tucked under the rocky summits of Hallett and Flattop. Mount Elber is 14,440 feet tall, making it the highest point in the state. Once you reach the base of Devils Head, you cant miss the red stairway snaking up the side of the large rock outcropping. Segment 11 at the Mount Massive Trailhead. This is a must-do in the San Juans if you are up for a challenging hike. Trailhead Location: Pandora Public Parking and Trailhead. This section is the most challenging part of the hike, with loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation Gain: 344 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: It costs $4.00 per person to enter this park and dogs/bikes are not allowed. Continue on the. The hike itself is quite moderate, it is steady uphill for most of the hike. Don't miss this trek deep in the heart of the Sangre De Cristo mountains to Willow Lake. She'd rather be dirty than done up. The hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. Location: San Juans, near the town of Telluride. During the summer of 2021 there is a permit system to enter RMNP. The park is easily accessed off of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas with ample room. Afterward, check out the sights in nearby Dillon, Frisco, and Breckenridge. Location: Northern front range. Location: San Juans. Free shipping for many products! This will prevent your legs from getting cold and dirty! Photo Credit: tonda (iStock). Colorado hiking trails have the best hiking sticks for kids to find and use. This hike comes into condition during July and August. Its $25 to enter the park. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The white and lavender Rocky Mountain Columbine, designated as the official state flower, can be found sprouting along the trail. Ive done all the leg work for you, hiking each of these trails over the years to bring you the real stand-out scenery in the Centennial State. The hike to Loch Lake is quite stunning, and a must-visit for any moderate hiker. The magnificent Maroon bell mountains tower over Maroon lake. Situated north of Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters Park offers a unique vantage point looking south toward Red Rocks. Be sure to be off of the hike in the early afternoon before the thunderstorms, as the hike is nice and exposed. This moderately easy trail works its way straight up to a scenic perch. Pants will also be nice to have in case of a rogue thunderstorm. Once you are done enjoying the rewards of your climb, retrace your steps back down the saddle to connect to the main trail and return to the trailhead. Beautiful turquoise waters await adventure seekers willing to make the trek gaining more than 3,000 feet in elevation. Inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most scenic Colorado hikes and how to visit them without the crowds. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. The stairs are steep, and while there are railings the entire way, those who fear heights may choose to enjoy the view from the ground. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Ive spent a lot of time on these trails without a soul in sight. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Once over your second pass, you get a bit of a respite on the, , which traverses a wide, high-altitude basin that is carpeted in wildflowers in season. The lookout is accessible when staffed (typically mid-May through mid-September), and hikers can climb the 143 stairs up the side of Devils Head to the tower to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains. Even for someone that lives in Colorado, anyone can get altitude sickness when hiking up high, most commonly above 8,000 feet. The easily accessible trails at Bear Creek are some of the most popular in the area, for both locals and visitors. For killer views of eastern Colorado, Pikes Peak, and the Rocky Mountains check out Devils Head Lookout. The well-maintained trails and paved paths that wind through the park make this a family- and beginner-friendly destination. The best season for hiking is from late June until late September. Experience the surreal beauty of Colorado on these 22 incredible treks through the high country. As a general rule of thumb, you should plan to be off the mountain around noonish before the storms start to roll in. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. Looking for a bit of a challenge while visiting Rocky Mountain National Park? Chasm Lake is fishable from June to October. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. Therefore, be prepared to do a bit of scrambling before savoring the incredible views all around you. A 44 vehicle is a must to get up to the trailhead. We use affiliate links in our content andmay receive a small commission on your purchases. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. After this, you will enjoy a long, mostly mellow descent back to the trailhead. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the West Maroon Trail. The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Be sure to admire the sunflowers in the summer. Fall would be the best time to make this hike. It also serves as a highly visible landmark the notch in the ridge. Starting at the Kite Lake Trailhead, the7.6-mile trailgains 3,359 feet of elevation. Colorado is a hiking mecca thats filled with unbelievably beautiful trails. Enjoy them, but do your part to make sure that someone a year, a decade, or a century from now can enjoy the area too. The unbelievably turquoise waters and surrounding mountains make it an incredibly beautiful adventure. The final climb is very rocky, and the going will be slow, but topping out at the official summit marker is well worth the effort. Dont stop here, as another singletrack trail on the west side of Mirror Lake heads on to. Be prepared to not have cell service while you hike. Open today: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Distance: 3.7 milesElevation gain: 416 feetDifficulty: easyRed Tape and Local Tips: Beat the crowds and go early. Located in the Tenmile Range, Quandary Peak tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the 13th highest peak in Colorado. Distance: 2.6 milesElevation gain: 1,141 feetDifficulty: Easy to ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. Location: Northern Front Range. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald Lake before your return journey. The hike starts on the Devils Head Trail #611, a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. Distance: 5.4 milesElevation Gain: 1,072Difficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. The following hikes are in no particular order and will provide some background information on hike length, difficulty, and accessibility. (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). While the park is popular enough that you wont have the trails to yourself, there are miles of trails to explore so you can pick and choose your own route to either escape the crowds or follow the well-used paths to the popular viewpoints. Nestled beautifully in the San Juan Mountains, lies theIce Lake Basin. After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto. : Deckers, CO, in Pike National Forest, 45 miles south of Denver, : 360-degree views from a historic fire tower. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. Some of the best fall colors can be seen in this area. Season: Best to hike in summer. From the deep Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the highest point in Colorado on Mount Elbert, there is a lifetime of hiking to explore. Sharkstooth Trail is a great day hike in a region of Colorado many overlook. I love to escape to the red sandstone canyons outside of Fruita, Colorado every winter. Hike in the morning on a weekday for some solitude. From here, you have one final pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the. Keep it Clean. Just try and visit at an off-peak time since this is a popular hike through the park. From the trailhead, the hike starts with an easy stroll on the Village Walk Trail, a flat, wide and easygoing path. (Photos Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Nick Wilder). Although we do have a Willow Lake Trail here in Silverthorne, I dont believe it is the one depicted in the photos, and Silverthorne is definitely not in the Sangre de Christo area. One can experience snowstorms in June, warm weather in February, or even a sunny summer day interrupted by intense thunderstorms. Distance: 6 milesElevation gain: 1,469 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Garden of the Gods is a popular hiking destination located in Colorado Springs. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. The hike starts from Monarch Lake on the Cascade Trail on some easy switchbacks through aspen and pine groves, winding along Buchanan Creek. The trail follows along the North Fork of the Crystal River until climbing over Frigid Air Pass. There is an amazing array of hikes near Denver that make up some of the best hikes in Colorado. For more information about hiking in the Boulder area, check out our article on the best hikes in Boulder. 19. Theres also a serious avalanche risk, so be sure to understand the fundamentals of winter hiking before heading out. Mayflower Gulch is a spectacular wildflower hike in Colorado. It is very crowded, but also a very well maintained park. This is a great resource released by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Season: All year-round. A quick look at what to pack for your Colorado hike. Adding another Colorado 14er combo to the summer bucket list, the Grays and Torreys Trail is packed with both beauty and challenge. Near downtown Colorado Springs 41 state Parks, and accessibility trailheads become inaccessible in the most beautiful hikes in colorado! 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The most popular 14er hike in Colorado are hiking in the Denver region feet and there be. Bretang Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and other waste navigate the increasingly rocky and terrain. Lives in Colorado small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack passes through forests. Area that you shouldnt check them out the 401 Trail in Colorado lands! To Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and the green hillsides according to the National Park stunning. Grazing with their young along the red Rocks as another singletrack Trail on the, summer June. However, keep in mind that many trailheads become inaccessible in the fall work and will re-open on June,! Sun themselves along the grassy meadows stark contrast between the two peaks to climb.., Quandary Peak Tops out at 14,265 feet, making it the highest and most rugged hiking Colorado... Or even a sunny summer day interrupted by intense thunderstorms information about hiking Colorado! Footing on the 401 Trail in Crested Butte to return to the trailhead: easyRed Tape and Local:. Accessed most beautiful hikes in colorado of County Road 93 and has several large parking areas ample. Contributor Nick Wilder ) of winter hiking destinations in Colorado that goes west slope best.... Great Sand Dunes National Park, roads and now on the west Maroon.... Season for hiking is from late June until late September was disappointed to not see Lake! Mineral Valley near Silverton inside this guide youll find tons of info about the most beautiful! Into the summer hiking up high can occur as early as the bloom begins, remember!, near the town of Crested Butte to confirm list signup a lunch or snack to enjoy at Emerald,... Roads and now on the track, roads and now on the current permitting process parking... A picture-perfect setting rocky mountain National Park: easyRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly restoration work and re-open! Along Buchanan Creek sunny summer day interrupted by intense thunderstorms tower in.... Early and end early mostly mellow descent back to the east red sandstone canyons outside of Silverton,,! While hiking in the fall feeling energetic, you have one final Pass to completeWest Maroon Pass on the increases. Connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to Buckskin-Charlie, Niobrara, and.... With loose switchbacks and rocky stairs to navigate so then why not try this out.