Hard & Expert Hikes in Colorado
14ers, long backcountry days, and routes that demand respect. These are the trails that turn into Type II fun if you misjudge the weather or forget to drink water above treeline.
23 trails in our directory.
Mount Elbert
Colorado's highest peak offers a challenging but non-technical climb with incredible panoramic views. The standard East Ridge route is the most popular approach.
Blue Lakes Trail
Three stunning alpine lakes nestled beneath towering 14ers Mount Sneffels, Dallas Peak, and Gilpin Peak. One of Colorado's most scenic high-alpine destinations.
Manitou Incline
An extreme workout on the old railway bed with railroad ties creating natural steps. Reservations required for this bucket-list Colorado challenge.
Quandary Peak
One of Colorado's most popular 14ers with well-maintained trails and stunning views of the Continental Divide. The East Ridge route is straightforward but demanding.
Chasm Lake
A challenging hike to a pristine alpine lake beneath the dramatic east face of Longs Peak. The lake sits in a spectacular cirque surrounded by towering granite walls.
Grays and Torreys Peaks
A challenging double-peak 14er adventure offering two summits in one day. The trail features alpine terrain with stunning Continental Divide views.
Indian Peaks Wilderness Loop
A spectacular loop through pristine wilderness featuring alpine lakes, dramatic peaks, and diverse ecosystems. Permits required for this premier wilderness experience.
Crater Lake Trail
A challenging hike through aspen groves and alpine meadows to a pristine cirque lake surrounded by dramatic peaks in the Maroon Bells wilderness.
Mount Bierstadt
One of Colorado's most accessible 14ers with a well-defined trail through beautiful alpine terrain. Popular choice for first-time peak baggers.
Columbine Lake Trail
A challenging wilderness hike to a remote alpine lake beneath dramatic peaks with pristine wilderness settings and stunning mountain views.
Four Pass Loop
Colorado's premier backpacking route crosses four mountain passes above 12,000 feet through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. A 3-4 day trek with stunning wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and panoramic views of the Elk Mountains.
Conundrum Hot Springs
A long but rewarding trail to one of Colorado's most famous natural hot springs at 11,200 feet. The route follows Conundrum Creek through forests and meadows in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Permit required for overnight stays.
Cathedral Lake Trail
A steep climb through Pine Creek canyon to a gorgeous alpine lake at nearly 12,000 feet in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Forests give way to meadows and wildflowers before reaching the dramatic lake basin below Electric Pass.
American Lake Trail
A steep switchback climb through aspen groves and spruce forests to a pristine alpine lake at 11,365 feet. Meadows ablaze with wildflowers from mid-July to mid-August and a waterfall near the lake make this a rewarding destination.
Pitkin Lake Trail
A challenging hike in the Eagles Nest Wilderness climbing nearly 3,000 feet to a stunning alpine lake. The trail offers dazzling views of East Vail and the surrounding peaks, with the final approach through open alpine terrain.
Booth Lake Trail
Extends beyond popular Booth Falls into the Eagles Nest Wilderness backcountry to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks. Wildflower meadows and wildlife viewing opportunities reward those who push past the falls.
Gore Lake Trail
A long and rewarding hike through the Eagles Nest Wilderness to a remote alpine lake beneath the dramatic Gore Range. Stunning fall colors, rocky terrain, and wildlife sightings make this a Vail-area classic for experienced hikers.
Notch Mountain Trail
Climb to the summit of Notch Mountain in the Holy Cross Wilderness for one of Colorado's most iconic views: the cross-shaped snow couloir on Mount of the Holy Cross. A historic stone shelter sits at the top.
Missouri Lakes and Fancy Lakes Loop
A stunning loop through the Holy Cross Wilderness visiting multiple alpine lakes and crossing Fancy Pass at 12,005 feet. The route passes through pristine forests, wildflower meadows, and offers views of the Sawatch Range.
Willow Lake Trail
A steep, challenging trail in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness climbing through a gulch into alpine meadows before reaching secluded Willow Lake. The trail passes near Buckskin Pass with views of the surrounding peaks.
Aspen to Crested Butte via East Maroon Trail
The most direct hiking route between Aspen and Crested Butte with outstanding views of Pyramid Peak, wildflower fields, and access to Copper Lake. Several challenging river crossings require planning. Arrange transportation from Crested Butte in advance.
Anthracite Pass Trail
A short but very steep trail through the Raggeds Wilderness climbing to a mountain pass with beautiful views of surrounding peaks. Passes through aspen groves, pine forests, and open meadows with great wildflower displays.
Gore Creek Trail to Red Buffalo Pass
Follow Gore Creek deep into the Eagles Nest Wilderness through meadows, aspen groves, and conifer forests to Red Buffalo Pass. The first 4 miles are relatively gentle before the trail steepens significantly toward the pass.