Hiking in the White River National Forest
20 trails in this Colorado region — with elevation, distance, and seasonal recommendations.
Hanging Lake Trail
Colorado's most photographed lake features turquoise waters and a spectacular waterfall. Reservations required year-round due to its popularity and fragile ecosystem.
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.
Upper Piney River Falls Trail
A scenic, family-friendly trail following the Piney River past Piney Lake through open wildflower meadows, aspen stands, and pine forests. The waterfall at the end is a refreshing reward with views of the Gore Range.
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.
The Grottos Trail
A short, family-friendly trail along the Roaring Fork River to unique ice caves and small waterfalls carved into granite. The picnic area and accessible terrain make this a great stop along Independence Pass.
Savage Lakes Trail
A moderately steep climb east of Basalt to a pair of subalpine lakes surrounded by rugged peaks. The trail passes through aspen and conifer forests with good fishing opportunities at the lakes.
Acorn Creek Trail
A quiet trail offering solitude and wildlife viewing through aspen groves, sagebrush meadows, and spruce-fir forests. Reaches the Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness with spectacular Gore Range views. One of the first trails to clear of snow in spring.
Arthur H. Carhart Trail at Trappers Lake
A gentle loop circling Trappers Lake in the Flat Tops Wilderness, the birthplace of America's wilderness preservation movement. Good fishing access on the east and north shores with connections to several backcountry trails.
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.
Linkins Lake Trail
A short but high-altitude trail just below the summit of Independence Pass leading to a small alpine lake above treeline. The trail starts at nearly 12,000 feet, offering immediate alpine tundra scenery and wildflowers.
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.