Take on a demanding day hike to reach the summit of the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains and the second highest peak in the lower 48. Towering at 14,433 feet, Mount Elbert offers hikers with stunning 360-degree views of a seemingly endless sea of peaks from its rocky summit, making it a must-do hike for all who can get there. Trail Info Length 10 miles Elevation gain 4,500 feet Route Out & back Permit required no Dogs allowed on leash Trailhead elevation 10,061' Water Elbe

Undoubtedly among Colorado's best day hikes, the trek to Mirror and Monarch Lakes is nothing short of remarkable. Winding through thick spruce and pines forests, weaving through stunning wildflower fields, alongside cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering peaks, the trail leads at Crater Lake, offering sweeping panoramas of one of the most iconic peaks in all of Colorado, Lone Eagle Peak. Trail Info Length 16 miles Elevation gain 2,500 feet Route Out & back Permit required

One of the most dramatic views in all of Colorado, the Painted Wall in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park stands as a testament to the immense geological forces that have shaped the landscape over the last nearly 2 billion years. Rising 2,247 feet from the Gunnison River, it holds the distinction of being the tallest cliff in the state and one of the most awe-inspiring in North America. Accented by vibrant bands that inspired its name, the geological marvel ranks amon

Home to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery in the Rockies, Colorado's San Juan Mountains are loaded with knock your socks off views. Glacial blue lakes, lush forest, gorgeous waterfalls, and towering peaks make them one of the state's most sought after hiking destinations. The trail options are seemingly endless. We'd argue there's no better area in Colorado to explore come late July during the region's wildflower season than the San Juans. One especially s

I went solo on this trip in late June and it turned out to be one of my favorite trips to Colorado over the last half dozen or so years. The map below illustrates nearly all of the stops on this adventure and clicking on each waypoint previews the photos found throughout the article. Day 1: Loveland Pass Mount Sniktau, Cupid & Grizzly Peak (8.2/3,500') I began the trip along the Continental Divide on a day hike to tackle Mount Sniktau, Cupid Peak, and Grizzly Peak—three amaz