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15+ Epic Backpacking Trips in Colorado for Overnight Hikes
- By jesse.sumrak
Backpacking in Chicago Basin is a dream come true. Imagine…
- Massive peaks
- Rushing rivers
- Fields of wildflowers
- Alpine lakes
Check, check, check—Chicago Basin has it all.
Accessing Chicago Basin requires a journey that begins with the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad . Starting from Durango, Colorado, the scenic train ride takes you deep into the wilderness, passing through breathtaking landscapes of towering peaks and cascading rivers. The train drops off hikers at the Needleton stop, the gateway to Chicago Basin.
From Needleton, the real adventure begins with a hike along the Animas River. The trail starts pretty mellow before climbing up into the beautiful Chicago Basin.
Chicago Basin is famous for being home to not one but four stunning fourteeners (mountains with peaks over 14,000 feet):
- Sunlight Peak (14,059 ft)
- Windom Peak (14,082 ft)
- Mount Eolus (14,083 ft)
- North Eolus (14,039 ft)
Each peak presents its own set of challenges and rewards for hikers and mountaineers. Windom is an easy(ish) Class 2 14’er, while Sunlight’s crux is considered the most difficult of all the Colorado fourteeners.
Experienced climbers can attempt the “Chicago Basin Grand Slam” by conquering all four summits in one day. But it’s a beast .
Camping options abound in Chicago Basin, and this is one of the few areas in the Weminuche Wilderness where camping is allowed above treeline. There are several established campsites, but it’s essential to secure a train ticket well in advance due to the high number of visitors.
2. Lost Creek Wilderness Loop
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Goose Creek Trailhead, Lost Creek Wilderness](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Goose-Creek-Trailhead-Lost-Creek-Wilderness-1024x512.png)
The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop offers a challenging and diverse backpacking experience in the heart of Colorado’s Lost Creek Wilderness. The loop is a picturesque trail system that winds through a mesmerizing landscape of unique rock formations, lush forests, meadows adorned with wildflowers, and babbling creeks.
It’s called “Lost Creek” because the creek wanders under boulder fields and rocks, making it difficult to keep track of as it winds through the wilderness.
The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop can be accessed from various trailheads, but the Goose Creek Trailhead is one of the most popular starting points. Located approximately 60 miles southwest of Denver, reaching the trailhead involves a scenic drive through the foothills.
The loop comprises several interconnected trails, providing backpackers options for different trip lengths and difficulty levels. The most common route covers approximately 25 to 30 miles, but depending on your preferences, more extended or shorter variations are possible.
One of the highlights of this wilderness area is the exceptional rock formations known as the “Lost Creek Wilderness granite domes.” These massive granite rocks, sculpted by millennia of erosion, create a surreal landscape that seems straight out of a fiction novel. The imaginative names of some of these formations, such as “The Sphinx” and “The Castle,” add to the charm.
You’ll encounter several creek crossings, adding an element of adventure to the journey. Yes, you will get wet. Some crossings may require careful navigation, especially during the spring snowmelt or after heavy rains. Take your time, and scout for safer opportunities.
On the bright side, it’s never hard to find water, so you can keep your pack light(er).
3. Colorado Trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Backpacking the Colorado Trail](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Backpacking-the-Colorado-Trail-1024x512.png)
The Colorado Trail is a legendary long-distance trail that spans over 500 miles, winding its way from the outskirts of Denver straight through the heart of the Rockies to Durango. If you want to see the best of what Colorado has to offer, this is the backpacking trail for you.
The trail is divided into 28 segments, each varying in length and difficulty. Ranging from relatively easy sections appropriate for day hikers to challenging portions for experienced backpackers, the Colorado Trail caters to adventurers of all levels.
Hikers on the Colorado Trail will experience dramatic elevation changes, with several high mountain passes exceeding 12,000 feet. This means weather conditions can change rapidly, and it’s crucial to be prepared for sudden temperature drops, afternoon thunderstorms, and even snow in higher elevations (even during the summer).
Water sources can be scarce in some segments, especially during dry seasons. Do your research to plan ahead, and pick up a copy of the Colorado Trail Guidebook . It’s regularly updated and covers everything you need to know to survive your trip.
The trail offers numerous opportunities for backcountry camping, but hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles and abide by established regulations for camping in designated areas. Some segments may require permits, so it’s crucial to research and plan ahead.
4. Maroon Bells Wilderness
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Silver Bell Campground, Maroon Bells Wilderness](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Silver-Bell-Campground-Maroon-Bells-Wilderness-1024x512.png)
The Maroon Bells Wilderness offers a wide range of hiking trails catering to different skill levels and interests. From short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, there’s something for everyone.
Popular routes include the Maroon-Snowmass Trail, West Maroon Trail, and the Four Pass Loop, a challenging but incredibly rewarding 27-mile circuit that takes you over four high mountain passes.
However, everyone wants to go backpacking in the Maroon Bells Wilderness, so you’ll need to get in line and fight to earn yourself a permit. Some adventures want to backpack to beautiful alpine lakes, others want to do the Four Pass Loop, and many want to bag the area’s iconic (and scary) 14-thousand-foot peaks.
5. Wild Basin, Rocky Mountain National Park
Wild Basin is the lesser-visited area of Rocky Mountain National Park. It can get busy, but it’s far less crowded than Bear Lake Road and the northern areas of the park—yet, it has so much to offer. However, you have to work a bit more for everything.
There isn’t a shuttle to drop you off at every lake and waterfall.
Located on the southeastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park, Wild Basin is accessible through a separate entrance station. From the trailhead, visitors can choose from a variety of hiking trails, each offering its own unique charm and adventure.
Wild Basin is an excellent place for backcountry camping, with several established campsites available for anyone seeking a more immersive wilderness experience. Permits are required for backcountry camping and can be obtained through the Rocky Mountain National Park’s backcountry office.
I’ve backpacked to Thunder Lake, and it’s a relatively gradual trail that meanders through most of the basin. Thunder Lake is a gem, and we had the whole lake to ourselves when we visited. It serves as a great base camp for hiking (or climbing) Mt. Alice and Chiefs Head Peak. We also threw in Tanima Peak, just for fun.
6. Ice Lake Basin
Backpacking at Ice Lake Basin is a true alpine adventure, offering hikers a glimpse into one of Colorado’s most strikingly beautiful and pristine wilderness areas. Situated near the town of Silverton in the San Juan Mountains, Ice Lake Basin is renowned for its awe-inspiring turquoise-colored lakes, rugged mountain peaks, and breathtaking wildflower meadows.
The trailhead to Ice Lake Basin is accessible from the South Mineral Creek area, just a short drive from Silverton. The journey to the basin begins with a moderate ascent through a dense forest, gradually revealing glimpses of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Eventually, you’ll make your way up to Ice Lake, a beautiful blue lake with rugged, craggy peaks surrounding it. From here, you can find a camp spot, and you can also go climb Class 2 Vermillion Peak (one of Colorado’s 100 tallest peaks). You can also take a short adventure around the mountain’s corner to Island Lake, a smaller lake with a little island in the middle.
The San Juan Mountains Association (SJMA) recommends camping in the Lower Ice Lake Basin for the following reasons:
- Protecting Fragile Alpine Vegetation: Exercise caution when setting up tents in the Upper Basin, as the delicate alpine vegetation can be easily damaged.
- Challenges of Cat Holes in Alpine Tundra: Digging a cat hole for waste disposal becomes problematic in the alpine tundra, and privacy options are limited.
- Discouraging Fires in the Upper Basin: Fires are highly discouraged in the Upper Basin due to several reasons. Firstly, wood is scarce, necessitating the need to carry it in. Additionally, open fire scars are unsightly and can take years for revegetation.
- Exposure to Elements in the Upper Basin: The Upper Basin lacks tree cover for protection, leaving backpackers exposed to storms and strong winds.
7. Continental Divide Trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Continental Divide Trail, Backpacking](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Continental-Divide-Trail-Backpacking-1024x512.png)
Backpacking the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a true backcountry odyssey that takes adventurous hikers on an epic journey along the spine of the Rocky Mountains.
Stretching over 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, the CDT offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, immersing backpackers in diverse landscapes, rugged terrains, and some of the most remote and unspoiled areas in the United States.
Colorado contains a large portion of the CDT, offering unique opportunities to camp in fantastic backcountry settings. However, be aware of each area’s specific regulations and permit requirements. Due to the trail’s remote nature, self-reliance and Leave No Trace principles are essential to minimize your impact on the environment.
8. Conundrum Hot Springs
Backpacking to Conundrum Hot Springs is a rewarding journey with rushing creeks, views of rugged mountain ridges, and (of course) natural hot springs.
The trailhead to Conundrum Hot Springs begins at the Conundrum Creek Trailhead, located near Aspen, Colorado. The trail winds through dense forests and wildflower-laden meadows.
After a challenging 8.5-mile hike, you’ll arrive at Conundrum Hot Springs. Here, you’ll find two natural hot spring pools. You get to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing at the epic alpine scenery—it really doesn’t get better than this.
You might even feel refreshed on your descent hike back to Aspen…maybe.
9. Lone Eagle Peak, Indian Peaks Wilderness
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Mirror Lake, Indian Peaks Wilderness](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Mirror-Lake-Indian-Peaks-Wilderness-1024x512.png)
The journey to Lone Eagle Peak typically begins at the Monarch Lake Trailhead near Granby, Colorado. The trail winds through dense forests and opens up to reveal stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Stop by Mirror Lake and Crater Lake for awesome views of Lone Eagle Peak reflecting in the water. This majestic granite spire rises dramatically from the alpine landscape—it looks like something out of a movie.
The Indian Peaks Wilderness is known for its remoteness, providing a sense of isolation and solitude that connects hikers with the raw beauty of nature. While the trail is popular among adventurers, the vastness of the wilderness ensures that you can find solitude, too.
Camping opportunities abound in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, offering backpackers the chance to spend the night beneath the starlit skies. Obtain the necessary permits for overnight stays and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile alpine environment.
10. Crested Butte to Aspen
This multi-day trek offers backpackers a chance to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and the Elk Mountains while connecting two mountain towns.
The adventure begins in the charming town of Crested Butte, where the West Maroon Pass trailhead awaits. The most popular route is the West Maroon Trail, which takes hikers through a lush valley adorned with wildflowers and towering peaks. Another option is the East Maroon Trail, providing a slightly different but equally scenic route.
Plan transportation logistics in advance, as the trailhead and endpoint are in different locations. Shuttles and private transportation services are available between Crested Butte and Aspen, letting you enjoy a no-stress point-to-point journey.
11. South Colony Lakes
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/South-Colony-Lakes-1024x536.png)
The trailhead to South Colony Lakes is accessible from the South Colony Lakes Road near Westcliffe, Colorado. The initial part of the trail takes hikers through dense forests, gradually opening up to reveal spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
South Colony Lakes is the gateway to two of Colorado’s most challenging and iconic 14ers: Crestone Needle and Crestone Peak. You can also bag Humboldt (another 14er) or do a little bit more adventuring to get Columbia Point (a centennial).
You’ll find plenty of backcountry campsites close to Lower South Colony Lakes. You can camp up at the Upper South Colony Lakes, but the area is above treeline and exposed to the elements.
12. Zirkel Circle
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Mount Zirkel Loop Trail, Steamboat Springs](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Mount-Zirkel-Loop-Trail-Steamboat-Springs-1024x512.png)
This iconic loop trail offers backpackers the chance to experience the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains, with alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and diverse landscapes that showcase the essence of Colorado’s remote wilderness.
The Zirkel Circle typically starts from the Slavonia Trailhead, near the town of Steamboat Springs. The loop covers approximately 10 miles, passing through some of the most picturesque areas of the Zirkel Wilderness. You’ll get amazing views of Mount Zirkel and pass by Gilpin Lake and Gold Creek Lake on your loop through the wilderness.
13. Rainbow Trail
The Rainbow Trail stretches approximately 100 miles as it takes hikers from Salida all the way to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. The Rainbow Trail can be accessed from various trailheads, but the most popular starting point is near the town of Salida, Colorado. The trail is divided into several sections, each offering its own unique scenery and challenges.
Backpackers can camp in designated areas along the trail or utilize backcountry shelters in some sections. Backpacking the entire length of the Rainbow Trail requires thorough planning and organization. Arrange transportation and resupplies accordingly to ensure a smooth and successful journey.
Embarking on a backpacking expedition along the Rainbow Trail offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Colorado wilderness. The trail’s diverse landscapes, mountain vistas, and opportunities for solitude make it a genuine adventure for backpackers.
14. Colorado National Monument Traverse
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Backpacking Colorado National Monument Traverse](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Backpacking-Colorado-National-Monument-Traverse-1024x512.png)
The Colorado National Monument Traverse starts at the park’s east entrance, near the town of Grand Junction. Hikers will follow a combination of established trails and off-trail routes to traverse the entire length of the monument.
As you venture through the monument, you’ll encounter a super-cool display of geology, with massive red sandstone formations, steep canyons, and striking rock spires. The terrain can be rugged, and hikers should be prepared for some scrambling and challenging sections. Carry a detailed map, a GPS device, and a compass to navigate effectively.
The monument has several designated backcountry camping areas, allowing backpackers to spend the night amidst the canyons. The desert environment of the Colorado National Monument can be harsh, with hot temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, carry sufficient water, and protect yourself from the sun.
15. Sand Ramp Trail, Great Sand Dunes National Park
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Sand Ramp Trail](https://unknowncolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Sand-Ramp-Trail.png)
Backpacking the Sand Ramp Trail in Great Sand Dunes National Park is an adventure that takes backpackers through the tallest sand dunes in North America. This lesser-known trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, from the sandy dunes to the rugged mountains—you won’t find that in many other places on the planet.
The Sand Ramp Trail begins at the Mosca Pass Trailhead on the east side of Great Sand Dunes National Park. While the trail mostly avoids dunes, prepare to get sandy. The Sand Ramp Trail rewards hikers with stunning vistas that provide panoramic views of the vast dune fields, the towering Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the sweeping San Luis Valley.
Find Something Shorter Than a Backpacking Adventure
Looking for something more tame than a backpacking trip? Don’t worry—Colorado has that, too. Check out our guide to the Best Places to Camp in Colorado for a mix of glamping, yurts, campgrounds, and other backcountry adventures.
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Learn everything you need to know about Lair o’ the Bear Park and the surrounding hiking and mountain biking trails.
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Discover Kenosha Pass with a comprehensive guide that covers hiking trails, camping, weather, and other considerations.
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Best backpacking trips in Colorado: 8 epic overnights in the high country
The best backpacking trips in Colorado serve up unforgettable overnight adventure through untouched alpine landscape
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Hiker enjoys grand view of alpine tundra in Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bgePBkzj7nyd3DViXEKYFa-320-80.jpg)
Backpacking is one of the most immersive ways to commune with nature, offering you the gratifying experience of setting off from civilization and venturing into the wilderness for a night or longer. With overnight trips you can take in more than you might on a day hike and you’ll often have swaths of nature all to yourself. The best backpacking trips in Colorado range in length from a few miles to epic treks that guide you through untouched alpine landscapes.
The trails in Colorado are certainly some of the best, but they can also be busy. However, you usually find that only the first couple of miles of any trail are clogged up before the crowds thin out. It’s worth venturing a little further to lose the crowds and to see some of the gems that aren’t easily reachable on a day hike, and one of the best ways to do this is to turn your hike into an overnight trip. In this article, we take a look at some of the best backpacking trips in Colorado to whet your whistle for some overnight adventure in the backcountry.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Clouds over small group of hikers camping in front of scenic Ice Lake, Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/P4NtvhchP5U2zWd3yjeXaE-320-80.jpg)
You’ll want to take a look at our articles on different types of backpacking and how to plan a backpacking trip before you set off. Colorado is blessed with lots of dry weather so it’s a great place to dip your toe into backpacking, though be prepared with a good 3-season sleeping bag because overnights in the high country are always cold. For all Colorado hiking you’ll of course want to have a good pair of boots – though the trails in this state are well-maintained, they get rocky up above the treeline which is where many of these trips take you.
Best backpacking trip near Denver: Crater Lakes
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Backpacker crossing high country stream in Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/w9XJ9FvCGL7ZisQUFGju8Q-320-80.jpg)
Distance: 6.8 miles Difficulty: Challenging
It might be Colorado’s urban center, but you don’t have to travel far from Denver to reach some impressive heights. Crater Lakes are three high alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness that feature waterfalls and wildflowers along the way. Crater Lakes is definitely short enough to be done as a day hike, but add a heavy pack and it will make for a satisfying overnight trip.
The trailhead is near Black Hawk, about an hour’s drive from Denver. From Black Hawk, travel north Highway 119 to Rollinsville. Turn west onto Gilpin County Road 16 and continue eight miles to the Moffat Tunnel, and park at the East Portal Trailhead.
Follow the South Boulder Creek trail for 1.2 miles before turning right at the junction onto the Crater Lakes Trail. This takes you through a wide forested valley then onto a narrow strip of land between the two beautiful main lakes. The third lake is found via the steep climb to the west of the lakes.
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Best backpacking trip near Boulder: Caribou Lake
![1 night backpacking trips colorado From the 4th of July trailhead, near Nederland, Colorado in Indian Peaks Wilderness](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NfQs7iTHx3Zx4abXdXgE6W-320-80.jpg)
Distance: 9.3 miles Difficulty: Challenging
You’re certainly spoilt for choice in the Boulder area, which boasts access to a variety of wilderness areas from Chautaqua Park in the city limits to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorite is beautiful Caribou Lake via the Arapahoe Trail, which boasts a high alpine climb to the Continental Divide followed by a descent for your overnight stay in the attractive bowl forming Caribou Lake.
This trail is accessed from the Fourth of July Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness near Nederland, about an hour from Boulder. From Nederland, go south on Highway 72 for 0.5 miles to County Road 130 and make a right. Go through the town of Eldora, just past which it becomes a dirt road. Continue on the dirt road another 4.8 miles and take the right fork at the Buckingham Campground to park.
Begin on the North Fork of Middle Boulder Creek trail which takes you up above treeline to the Continental Divide via expanses of wildflowers, steep waterfalls, glacier-fed streams and the historic Fourth of July Mine. After you reach the Divide, there’s a steep switchback descent down to the lake. Be aware that in the morning, you’ll have another steep climb to get back out.
Best backpacking trip in Rocky Mountain National Park: Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Flattop Mountain and Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JxJwWvz6mLDTsz8wXqtJ5J-320-80.jpg)
Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: Moderate
Within Rocky Mountain National Park ’s 355 miles of hiking trails, the Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail takes in most of the fabulous North Inlet Trail as well as the Continental Divide and takes you across the rugged alpine tundra of the high country.
Park at the North Inlet trailhead and head north on the Tonahutu Trail. This trail takes you across tundra topped flats, up to Ptarmigan Point on the Continental Divide and back down to Hallett Creek. There’s even a side option to detour up Flattop Mountain and enjoy the view down to sparkling Emerald Lake. This route is dotted with campsites along the way so you can take several nights to enjoy the journey.
Best backpacking trip near Vail: Gore Lake
![1 night backpacking trips colorado An alpine lake in the Eagles nest wilderness in Vail Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/X5ZrveqnxmmsWkx3V6bphn-320-80.jpg)
Distance : 12.1 miles Difficulty : Difficult
If you’re in Vail, there’s nothing quite like hanging your hat in the dramatic bowl of Gore Lake for the night and waking up to see the sun rise over the Gore Range. The hike to Gore Lake makes for a pretty serious day hike, but it’s a good challenge for an overnight trip.
Take the free bus from town or park at the trailhead on Vail Pass - 10 Mile road. Gore Lake shares a trailhead with Deluge Lake, but both trails are well signposted.
The trail begins with almost a mile of strenuous climbing and has many more steep sections as you wind your way up the valley. You’ll be treated to all the high alpine features of cool forests and alpine meadows, but one unusual feature of this hike is a set of two graves about four miles in. The graves are of the Recen brothers, two Swedish immigrants who came to the area to mine for precious metals in the late 1800s and had a cabin nearby. Keep going to finally arrive at this idyllic alpine lake nestled in a granite bowl, a gorgeous spot to camp.
Best backpacking trip near Leadville: The Colorado Trail Section 10
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Beautiful and majestic Twin Lakes, Colorado, sits at the base of the highest peak of Mount Elbert](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6YYBbtjSi4fNmxmaWNcPR3-320-80.jpg)
Distance : 12.4 miles Difficulty : Difficult
The Colorado Trail is a 567 mile trail stretching from Denver to Durango and section 10 takes you through the Leadville area from the Timberline Pass trailhead to the Mount Massive trailhead over 12 miles with views of some of the highest peaks in the state.
From Leadville, follow the signs for Turquoise Lake and park at the Timberline Lake trailhead at the western end of the lake.
This wooded trail takes you along the base of Mount Massive, the state’s second highest peak. The trail begins where The Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail overlap and takes you into the Mount Massive Wilderness via a moderate climb then levels out along the contours of Bald Eagle Mountain. There is good camping about five miles in at Twin Mounds saddle and again a little over six miles in at Rock Creek. The trail then climbs steadily to the intersection with Highline Trail before descending down to the Mount Massive trailhead. For a longer trip you could camp here and tackle Mount Massive the next day.
Best backpacking trip near Breckenridge: Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Lower Mohawk lake near Breckenridge in Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Yy8ndzQK4AbUCNdiWEGHZF-320-80.jpg)
Distance : 8.4 miles Difficulty : Difficult
Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes offers some of the best views of Colorado’s high country with lots of great backcountry camping spots along the way.
The Spruce Creek trailhead is less than five miles from Breckenridge. Just follow Highway 9 south then take a right onto Spruce Creek Road.
Follow the creek for about a mile and a half then join the Mohawk Lakes trail at the junction. After a couple more miles you’ll reach lovely Mayflower Lakes. Camp here or continue on up the steep climb to Lower Mohawk Lake passing Continental Falls on the way. There are several more stunning alpine lakes past Lower Mohawk so pitch your tent and go and explore them if there’s time before sunset.
Best backpacking trip near Aspen: Aspen to Crested Butte
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Maroon Bells lake near Aspen Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/64c6PwXFoyANJngcmzYgYZ-320-80.jpg)
Distance : 11 miles Difficulty : Difficult
The drive from Aspen to Crested Butte is 100 miles, but go on foot and it’s 11 glorious miles over West Maroon Pass. This unforgettable trip takes you through aspen groves and wildflower meadows and treats you to some of the country’s most photographed mountain vistas.
To begin this hike from Aspen, park at Maroon Lake about ten miles south of town.
From spectacular Maroon Lake, hike through the forest to Crater Lake and pass the base of the iconic Maroon Bells. There’s a steep and strenuous climb up Maroon Creek to West Maroon Pass at 12,490ft of elevation – rest here for incredible views – then a steep descent down into more wildflower fields and old mining cabins as you follow Crystal River through the forest to Crested Butte. You can camp here and return on foot the way you came, or book a shuttle to take you back to Aspen. Needless to say, you can do this trip in either direction.
Best backpacking trip near Telluride: Blue Lakes Trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Backpacking at Blue Lakes in the San Juan mountains near Ouray, Colorado](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DXLyMx5gsCTMug7HfksbXd-320-80.jpg)
Distance : 8.6 miles Difficulty : Difficult
The San Juan and San Miguel Mountain ranges surrounding Telluride are quite possibly the most picturesque in the state. The Blue Lakes trail takes you to a turquoise lake via Mount Sneffels wilderness, cascades and wildflowers galore.
Blue Creek trailhead is very close to town as the crow flies, but since it’s on the other side of Mount Sneffels it requires a little over an hour of driving. Take Highway 62 towards Ridgewary and turn onto Dallas Creek Road then drive 9 miles south to the trailhead.
The hike takes you up the Dallas Creek drainage with spectacular mountain views all the way. You will pass an incredible waterfall before spending the night next to the turquoise waters of Blue Lake.
Julia Clarke is a staff writer for Advnture.com and the author of the book Restorative Yoga for Beginners . She loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then recover on the the yoga mat. Julia graduated with a degree in journalism in 2004 and spent eight years working as a radio presenter in Kansas City, Vermont, Boston and New York City before discovering the joys of the Rocky Mountains. She then detoured west to Colorado and enjoyed 11 years teaching yoga in Vail before returning to her hometown of Glasgow, Scotland in 2020 to focus on family and writing.
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7 Bucket List Backpacking Trips in Colorado
Heading out on a multi-day trip might seem a bit daunting when you aren’t sure where to go (there’s so much to choose from!). But, with one or two of these in your pocket, you’re ready to enjoy your next Colorado backpacking adventure.
1. Pawnee and Buchanan Pass Loop. Front Range
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Buchanan-Pass.jpg)
The loop through Pawnee Pass (12,542 feet) and Buchanan Pass (11,837 feet) is dramatic, strenuous, and unforgettable. The classic loop covers 27 miles, but there are several great extension options that are well worth making this a three-day adventure. The main extension options are Lake Isabelle (0.2 mile and 40 feet of gain), Pawnee Peak (1 mile and 400 feet of gain) and Crater Lake (2.8 miles and 350 feet of gain). All should be considered given ample time and energy.
- A Front Range Classic
- High passes and high mountain lakes
- A 27 mile loop
2. Mill Lake Backpack Trip. Gunnison Area
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Mill-Lake.jpg)
Mill Lake is what basic Colorado backpacking is all about. This was the first backpack trip my son did as a youngster. Being short and close to the trailhead, it meets that sweet spot of having a remote wilderness feel, while not being too far away from the car. It is a steep trail at high elevation, so I wouldn’t exactly call it a cake walk, especially when you’re carrying extra weight. The nearby lakes, Boulder and Lamphere, also offer wonderful backpacking options if you want to hike a little further.
- A short hike
- Classic Colorado mountain lake
- Nearby summit hike
3. Chicago Basin 14er Grand Slam. Silverton Area
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Chicago-Basin-Approach.jpg)
This is one heck of an other-worldly trip. If you don’t want to take the train and want an epic multi-day backpacking experience, start from Purgatory. Starting from Purgatory means you don’t need to worry about a train ticket, plus you get some extra mileage out of the deal. For this route, consider at least two nights; hike in and camp the first day, summit all four 14ers on the next day, and hike out the following day. Add in an extra day if you want to enjoy the basin a bit more!
- A long, challenging, bucket list trip
- Incredible scenery, mountains, and lakes
- Opportunities to climb three major 14ers
- Narrow Gauge Railroad (possible) access
4. Copper Lake Backpack Trip. Crested Butte Area
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Copper-Lake-overview.jpg)
This is a well marked intermediate out-and-back multi-day trip in the heart of the Elk Mountain. You pass by beautiful Judd Falls and follow Copper Creek all the way to Copper Lake. The elevation gain is mild except for one section toward the end with some switchbacks. Copper Creek Trail #983 is also a great starting spot for backpacking. You can continue toward Triangle Pass, Copper Pass, or East Maroon Pass which all access amazing basins. In the summer, this is a great trail for wildflower viewing.
- A mid-length hike
- Nearby alpine day hike loop
5. Timberline Lake Backpack Trip. Leadville Area
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Timberline-Lake.jpg)
This is a fantastic entry-level, or quick-n-easy backpacking trip in the Holy Cross Wilderness. Due to its easy access and easy difficulty level, you are likely to encounter other hikers, fisherpeople, and backpackers. A wilderness permit is required, which you will fill out and obtain along the trail at the wilderness boundary.
6. Fancy Pass/Missouri Lakes Backpack Loop. Vail Area
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Missouri-Lakes.jpg)
This is a fairly entry-level backpack loop, in that it is short, and does not require expert navigational skills. Nevertheless, this trip will bring you quickly into remote, rugged wilderness, with extended time above treeline. Spectacular views, lakes, and wildflowers make this one a classic for anybody looking for a top-notch backpack trip in Colorado.
- A multi-day loop
- Classic Colorado mountain lakes
- Scenic mountain passes
7. Four Pass Loop. Aspen Area
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.onxmaps.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/07/Four-Pass.jpg)
A Colorado classic, Four Pass Loop travels around the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area over 4 mountain passes that exceed 12,000′. The loop extends for a total of 27 miles and includes more than 8,000 feet of elevation gain. The route is a grand tour through meadows, valleys, alpine lakes, streams, and wildflowers. Most backpackers choose to complete the circuit in three or four days, and ambitious trail runners tackle the loop in a single day. This trip is very popular and camping permits are required
- A world famous loop through the Elk Mountains
- Legendary wildflowers
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Seriously, The Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Caribou Lake Backpacking Trail](https://www.nursetonomad.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/best-backpacking-trips-in-colorado-1.png?x49722)
Writing a post about the best backpacking trips in Colorado felt overwhelming. I live here and have done some. But there are SO MANY options for backpacking trips in this incredible state. Mountains and rivers and National Parks and alpine lakes galore…
Where to even begin for this list?
I have done some backpacking trips in Colorado, but I know there are PLENTY of epic trails I have not hiked yet. So, selfishly, this list is for me too 🙂
I’ve done a ridiculous amount of research for this post. I’ve read reddit threads, I’ve researched other bloggers’ posts about backpacking trips in Colorado, I’ve read other “best” lists, and I’ve looked at photos, ratings, and descriptions on Alltrails.
I will link to my blog for the hikes I’ve already done. But for the ones I haven’t backpacked yet, I will scour the internet and link to the best resources.
These are the 17 best backpacking trips in Colorado.
Let’s go backpacking!
Jump to Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado:
Backpacking colorado tips before you go, about this best backpacking trips in colorado list, great sand dunes national park, hessie trail to lost lake *the only easy hike*, south boulder creek trail to crater lakes trail, island lake and ice lake via ice lakes trail, caribou lake via arapaho pass, spruce creek trail to mohawk lakes, mount zirkel loop trail, venable–comanche trail loop, blue lakes trail to 14er mount sneffels, chicago basin, cascade creek trail to mirror lake and crater lake, abyss lake trail to abyss lake, conundrum hot springs, rawah lakes loop, pawnee-buchanan loop/northern indian peaks loop.
- Maroon Bells – Four Pass Loop
The Colorado Trail
- First Backpacking Trip: Read all my backpacking tips for beginners before heading out on the trail.
- Permits : You sometimes need to book permits far in advance for the popular backpacking routes. You may also need to book parking, depending on where you go. Make sure you do this properly.
- Weather : Colorado’s weather can be crazy. Check it ahead of time and potentially cancel/reschedule your trip if it looks like the weather could make it dangerous.
- Start Early : The Rocky Mountains experience afternoon storms. If you’re hiking up mountain passes, start early so you’re down the mountain before a storm hits.
- Bears : If you’re hiking in bear country, be prepared. Some locations require bear hangs or bear canisters. Buy or rent these ahead of time and follow the rules.
- Navigational Safety : Bring a map and/or compass/navigation device on your trek. Ensure that you won’t get lost.
- Altitude : Colorado is typically at 5000 ft. If you travel into the mountains to backpack, try to acclimate for a couple days prior to a strenuous hike. If you’re from sea level, spend a couple days at 5000ft first. And be aware of signs of altitude sickness; if you think you have it, make a descent into lesser elevation.
- Water : Bring enough water or check water sources ahead of time and bring a filtration system.
- Leave No Trace : Always follow these principles. Respect nature.
- Campfires : Wildfires can really ruin areas of Colorado, so some backcountry sites do not allow campfires. Please respect that.
- Pack Everything You’ll Need: Keep a backpacking packing list of what you need for every trek, and use it each time.
- Use AllTrails : Check trail conditions before your trek to see if the routes are passable.
- Enjoy it . Be grateful to backpack in such an epic place. Have fun and enjoy the solitude.
The average time to hike will be higher if you’re carrying a heavy pack.
If you click the location town link, it will take you to google maps with directions to the trailhead, as listed in Alltrails.
I am going to link to the Alltrails hike info and the best blogger resource I can find.
Every one of these hikes is listed as “hard” or “difficult,” so I eliminated that from the hike details. Just assume they’re all somewhat difficult. I feel like elevation gain, which is listed, is the best indicator for difficulty.
Also, each trail’s prime time to hike is typically June through September/October. Check trail conditions if you’re going early or late in the season to see if snow will affect your route.
I’m only sharing photos from the hikes I’ve done — but if you’ve done one of these and want to send me an awesome photo, I’d be happy to share it here and link to your blog or photography!
Trail highlights are listed, but these hikes are on the list because they’re extraordinary . If you’re like ehhh but I want the hike to be really pretty and worth it, I got you. These are all stunning.
I’ve done the research, and these have all made the cut. I don’t want to waste my time with a boring trail in Colorado. There are too many good ones! And I promise I want to do ALL of these.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Great Sand Dunes National Park sand dunes](https://www.nursetonomad.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_2891-1024x768.jpg?x49722)
Great Sand Dunes National Park – Incredible
- Trail Distance: 3-ish miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: ?
- Average Time to Hike: Plan for it to take WAY longer than your normal hiking. Sand dunes take forever to walk up.
- Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park , 4 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Camping on the sand dunes. Open skies.
- How to Hike It Links: Info from the National Park’s website.
- Permits? Yes, you need a permit from recreation.gov . Blogger’s info .
- Trail Info: Hike past the first high ridge of dunes and camp among the sand dunes. “Otherwordly.” Bring lots of water.
- Trail Distance: 4 miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: 830 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 2 hours
- Location: Eldora , 1 hour 20 mins from Denver
- Highlights: Pretty lake, easy hike – good for a backpacking beginner!
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails info. Blogger post .
- Permits? Nope
- Trail Info: There are 8 campsites near Lost Lake. Follow regulations . There is a free shuttle to the trailhead during busy season.
- Trail Distance: 6.8 miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,853 ft
- Average Time to Hike: ?
- Location: Nederland , 1 hour 20 mins from Denver
- Highlights: Mountain views and alpine lakes
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails info. Fellow blogger info – I couldn’t find any posts on camping here.
- Permits? Not Required
- Trail Info: 3 beautiful alpine lakes, not too far from Denver. It can be easy to lose the trail. US Forest Service info.
- Trail Distance: 7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,650 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 5 hours
- Location: Durango , 6.5 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Absolutely gorgeous lakes, aspen meadows, wildflowers
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Blogger’s link.
- Permits? None required.
- Trail Info: Water available; filter it. Popular hike, pack out waste!
![1 night backpacking trips colorado top of arapahoe pass caribou lake hike](https://www.nursetonomad.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/IMG_8058Edited-1024x768.jpg?x49722)
- Trail Distance: 9 miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: 2,601 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 5-ish hours
- Location: Nederland , 1.5 hrs from Denver
- Highlights: Beautiful alpine lake, wildflowers, mountain views.
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails hike info. My blog post on this epic hike 🙂
- Permits? Yes, you need a permit to camp in Indian Peaks Wilderness. See my post to have a better chance of snagging a sought after permit.
- Trail Info: Quite a steep hike at times, gorgeous views at the top of a mountain pass, and campsites near the lake. Lake water available; filter it. Pack out your waste! And beware of mosquitoes.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Mohawk Lake, Colorado](https://www.nursetonomad.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/IMG_6884-1024x441.jpg?x49722)
- Elevation Gain: 2,106 ft
- Location: Breckenridge , 1 hour 45 mins from Denver
- Highlights: Gorgeous alpine lakes, a waterfall
- How to Hike It Links: AllTrails Link. I did a day hike of this one .
- Permits? Nope, be conscious of where you camp.
- Trail Info: Great beginners backpacking trip.
- Trail Distance: 10.6 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 2,444 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 6 hours
- Location: Clark , 4 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Alpine lakes, waterfalls, fall colors, wildflowers
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Blogger’s link .
- Permits? Nope!
- Trail Info: Counter-clockwise is the way to go. The views look incredible; it has a 4.9 rating on Alltrails.
- Trail Distance: 12.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 3,884 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 7.5ish hrs
- Location: Westcliffe , 3 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Beautiful mountain views, alpine lakes
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails Link. Fellow Blogger Link .
- Trail Info: Nice, pretty hike. Especially beautiful in the fall.
- Trail Distance: 13 miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: 5,501 ft
- Average Time to Hike: ?? hiking a 14er always takes way longer than you think
- Location: Ouray , 6 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Hike a 14er! Alpine lakes, wildflowers, incredible views
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails info. Fellow outdoor travel blogger info .
- Permits? Not required as of now (2024)
- Trail Info: Class 3 scrambling. There are 3 lakes, and the lower one has camping by it.
- Trail Distance: 15-ish mile out and back.
- Elevation Gain: 4,3330 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 9 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado, 6 hours and 45 mins from Denver
- Waterfalls, mountain peaks, rivers, and alpine lakes.
- You take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad train to the start of this hiking area.
- It’s home to three 14ers: Mount Eolus (14,083′), Windom Peak (14,082′), and Sunlight Peak (14,059′) – head to this site for info on hiking them.
- How to Hike it Links: Alltrails summary. Fellow travel blogger experience.
- Permit Required? Nope. You fill out a paper registry with info about your hike, but there are no required permits or payment due to backpack here.
- Trail Info: Campsites are 5-6 miles in, you can spend the night(s) and summit the nearby 14ers, no campfires, pack out ALL waste. Review all San Juan National Forest Regulations before backpacking here.
Read Next: Backpack The Tour du Mont Blanc through Italy, Switzerland, and France.
- Trail Distance: 16 miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: 2,293 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 8-12 hours
- Location: Granby , 2 hours 20 mins from Denver
- Highlights: Waterfalls, alpine lake, wildflowers, aspen groves.
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Outbound link.
- Permit Required? Yes, from June 1-Sept 15 for overnights. Info here . And a parking fee for Arapaho National Recreation Area .
- Trail Info: Beautiful hike with 12 campsites. Follow Indian Peaks Wilderness Regulations . It’s a very busy trail. Lakes and streams for water; filter it.
- Trail Distance: 17 miles total, out and back
- Elevation Gain: 3,379 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 8.5 hrs
- Location: Grant , 1 hr 15 mins from Denver
- Highlights: Epic views of Mount Blue Sky wilderness, alpine lake.
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails info. Fellow blogger info.
- Permits? Sort of… you do a free self-issued permit at the trailhead.
- Trail Info: You can camp at Helms Lake or Abyss Lake. Follow Wilderness Regulations . This trail looks especially beautiful in the fall.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado The Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado Pin](https://www.nursetonomad.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/best-backpacking-trips-in-colorado-683x1024.png?x49722)
Pin The Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado for later!
- Elevation Gain: 2,800 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 8 hours
- Location: Aspen , 3.5 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Hot Springs! Wildflowers, mountain views
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Fellow blogger post .
- Permits? Required! Info here, and book at recreation.gov .
- Trail Info: Very popular trail – difficult to get a camping permit. Your feet will get wet while hiking. Camping by hot springs sounds so amazing.
- Trail Distance: 23.2 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 4,041 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 11 hours
- Location: Read Feather Lakes , 4 hours from Denver
- Highlights: Alpine lakes, wildflowers, mountain views
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Fellow outdoor blogger’s post .
- Permits? No, as of 2024
- Trail Info: Can be muddy, bring an extra pair of shoes.
- Trail Distance: 26 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 6,800 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 14.5 hours
- Location: Ward, 1.5 hours from Denver.
- Highlights: Absolutely beautiful scenery. 2 mountain passes, lakes, waterfalls.
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Fellow blogger info.
- Permits? Yes, for Indian Peaks Wilderness . You also need a Parking Permit .
- Trail Info: Go clockwise. Streams and lakes for water; filter it!
Maroon Bells – Four Pass Loop : The #1 Backpacking Trip in Colorado?
- Trail Distance: 27 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 7,752 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 3-4 days
- Location: Aspen , 4 hours from Denver
- Highlights: 4 12,000+ ft mountain passes, alpine lakes, crazy beauty.
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link. Fellow blogger’s link .
- Permits? YES, Forest Service info. You must purchase permits ahead of time at recreation.gov . You also must get a parking permit or reserve a shuttle spot .
- Trail Info: This hike is probably at the top of my list; it’s known to be SO beautiful. It’s not easy, and it’s super popular. Bear canisters are required!
- Trail Distance: 567 miles
- Elevation Gain: 89,000 ft
- Average Time to Hike: 4-6 weeks if doing the whole thing.
- Location: Denver to Durango
- Highlights: The whole thing is incredible.
- How to Hike It Links: Alltrails link.
- Permits? For parts, yes. See the Colorado Trail Foundation site.
- Trail Info: Maybe I’ll do this whole epic trail one day. I couldn’t do a best backpacking trips in Colorado without including this one. Here is the Colorado Trail Foundation info. The trail is divided into 33 segments if you want to do just parts. Doing the whole thing would definitely take some planning!
The Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado
Seriously, these are the best ones. I’m so pumped to do all these and would love to hear your experiences in the comments below.
If you’ve done a backpacking trip in Colorado that you LOVED and should be on the list, add it to the comments or email me [email protected] .
And please share with a friend who would love to go backpacking with you 🙂
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6 Outstanding Overnight Backpacking Hikes in Colorado
August 5, 2024 By // by Matt Thomas
Colorado is a hiker’s paradise, full of hidden overnight treks and magnificent multi-day trails. It’s among the best places in the world to be for stunning hiking trails.
Whether you’re looking for a simple day hike to do with your family or a longer jaunt for you and your pals, you’ll find it here. East to west, north to south, Colorado is covered in scenic hikes , some connecting to larger national trails. Summer is no doubt the most common time to hike, with the most popular trails usually being covered by visitors. But don’t let that deter you from visiting, there are plenty of fantastic trails that could be yours, and yours alone. Colorado’s a big place after all.
Colorado’s Best Multi-Day Hiking Trails
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Multi-Day Hiking Trail Colorado Pitkin Aspen Forest](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-pitkin-aspens-1440x960.jpg)
Thanks to a varied topography and the highest average elevation in the nation, Colorado provides a one-of-a-kind destination for families and hikers from all over. You can stand on the Earth as high as 14,400 if you’re atop Mount Elbert, our highest 14er . Or walk around at 3,315 feet if you’re probably not wading in the Arikaree River in Yuma County. We have ancient Anasazi ruins to explore, deep natural alpine lakes, forest teaming with wildlife, historic dinosaurs, and tree fossils. It’s an interesting place that keeps you on your toes.
Easy day hikes in Denver and seemingly anywhere here are as easy to find as walking out your front door. Keep in mind too that nearly every single campsite I can think of has a hiking trail by it, so overnight hiking is also not too complicated. However, you must treat it with the utmost respect .
![1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://www.avantlink.com/tpv/17473/780153/115871/138179/-/ml/image.png)
Have knowledge of how to read a map and use a compass. Know your plan, is it a one-way or round trip, will you need 2 cars?
Most importantly, ALWAYS TELL SOMEONE WHERE YOU’RE GOING, and hopefully, you have a friend joining you in your quest.
- Start early each day, afternoon storms are common.
- If you are injured and solo, it’s best to stay on the trail and wait.
- Cell phone coverage is spotty at best.
- Be in a good shape.
- Trekking poles can help tired knees.
- Purchase a CO Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue Card, CORSAR , if you don’t have a hunting or fishing license. It’s only $3 for a year or $12 for 5 years.
Backpacking is a worldwide passion, with people from all walks of life enjoying wonderful nights under the stars, coupled with early morning departures. Everywhere from the Swiss Alps to South America, you’ll find outstanding multi-day hikes. Oftentimes it’s beneficial to take a backpacking group tour and Colorado offers its fair share of choices for guided overnight hikes.
Here’s a look at the lesser-strolled, multi-day hikes for your overnight pleasure. These are among the top multi-day hiking trails in Colorado:
Colorado Trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Multi-Day Hiking Trails The Colorado Trail Durango](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-hike-the-colorado-trail-sign-1440x960.jpg)
Day hikers will be able to access 28 segments of the Colorado Trail , each with check-in points. This state-wide trail runs from Metro Denver’s Waterton Canyon to Durango . The elevations and difficulties of the sections vary. Backpackers too will have a splendid time hiking any bit of the 486 miles.
Allow yourself 4 to 6 weeks if you’re looking to conquer this life-changing hike. The average elevation is 10,300 feet to give you an idea. The optimal time to go is summer, late June to early September, and you should be relatively snow-free. You’ll still see the white fluffy stuff on the mountain peaks. It’s also possible to choose any in-between segment for a two-day or longer jaunt. It’s best to take a couple of cars so you can park at the finish, just don’t forget your keys.
Continental Divide Trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Multi-Day Hike Colorado Continental Divide Trail RMNP Lake Nokoni](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-continental-divide-trail2-1440x960.jpg)
This nationally scenic trail is not for the faint of heart. It’s called the Continental Divide Trail for a reason, it traverses the spine of the United States. Traveling south to north or north to south, the choice is yours while you’re climbing high over some of Colorado’s tallest peaks. Established in 1978, it covers 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, passing 5 states.
The average through hike time for the whole shebang is 6 months at 17 miles per day. 740 of those miles of CDT are available in central Colorado . Its highest point in the trail is Grays Peak in CO at 14,270 feet. Waterton Lake in Montana is at its lowest point at 4,200 feet. More than 1,000 summits in Colorado top 10,000 feet on the CTD, making it one of the route’s best. It passes geological feature after feature, with a lot of historic ruins, like the Hancock ghost town .
Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Overnight Backpacking Trail Chicago Basin Durango](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-chicago-basin-durango-1440x960.jpg)
For a wild memory, consider this southwest hike that combines a trip on the Durango train . The destination is the Chicago Basin, which offers access to 3 area 14’ers. It’s unofficially called the backpacking train, which allows you to backpack from the train mid-way to Silverton. At 499,771 acres, the Weminuche Wilderness is the biggest in the state.
Most overnight hikers to Chicago Basin will camp in the basin. It provides simple access to Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Eolus, Sunlight, and Wisdom peaks. So how does this work? Reservations should be made through the Durango Train ticket office to ensure seating. Let them know what you are doing. You can also save time and money by boarding from Silverton. If you have no reservations, you may still be able to buy directly from the conductor at either Needleton or Elk Park drop-offs.
How to flag the train:
The correct method is by waving your hands horizontally across your knees. When flagging the train in either direction, you must be on the east side of the tracks.
Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Multi Day Hike Aspen Colorado Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-maroon-bells-four-pass-loop-1440x960.jpg)
This is one of the best shorter multi-day hikes in the state. It begins from the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Area in Aspen Highlands. From here, it’s 28 miles roundtrip, with 8,000 feet of elevation gain between all the peaks. There is a special overnight parking area below Maroon Lake to start the hike. Take Maroon Creek Road past the Forest Station, after 8:30 am requires a stop for a permit, to the parking area.
You can choose either way, clockwise or counter-clockwise when you come to the fork in the road, AKA Maroon Lake. Backpackers generally take 3 to 4 days to complete the Four Pass Loop , which is best during summer. It’s rated as a difficult hike, beginning at 9,580 feet and peaking at 12,500 feet. Every party needs to self-register at the Trailhead and carry a copy of their free receipt. Good campsites are found on the hike.
Lost Creek Wilderness Loop
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Multi Day Backpacking Hikes Lost Creek Wilderness Colorado](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-lost-creek-wilderness-trail-1440x960.jpg)
South Park is often overlooked at a hiking destination, especially multi-day treks. Upon first inspection descending from Kenosha Pass this high-elevation basin seems like a barren alpine desert. However, drive into it and you’ll soon realize its treasures, including elaborate rock formations at Lost Creek Wilderness , a myriad of rolling mountains and forests, and Tarryall Reservoir, another gem for another day. Allow yourself at least a couple of days to discover this magical place.
Situated close to Fairplay , you’ll begin from Goose Creek Trail, which winds through aspen groves and colorful meadows. Looking west affords splendid views of the Collegiate Peaks and Mosquito Range. Since it’s a loop you have a choice of going direction. One highlight is the Goose Creek drainage, which has granite spires and huge boulders. The total length is 34 miles, although you have the option of shaving off 10 miles or so with the McCurdy Park cutoff. Free dispersed camping is prevalent.
Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Multi Day Hikes Colorado King Lake Indian Peaks Wilderness](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-indian-peaks-wilderness-king-lake-797x531.jpg)
Denverites will enjoy this relatively easy-to-reach hike in Nederland . At only 16 miles many folks day trek this one too. The option is yours if you’ll spend the night, although once you see the views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness you’ll likely want to stick around for another day.
Begin your day at the Hessie Trail, which due to its Front Range proximity, does fill up quickly. The town of Nederland accommodates with a free shuttle to the trailhead. Remember to make the last bus home before it departs, if going this route. The first main point of interest, at over 5 miles up, is Devil’s Thumb Lake. If you do the whole loop, you’ll continue on Lonesome Trail to King Lake, then Devil’s Thumb Pass, completing the journey in 11 miles.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Overnight Hike Continental Divide Trail Ridge Road RMNP](https://www.uncovercolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/multi-day-backpacking-hike-colorado-continental-divide-trail3-1600x533-1-300x100.jpg)
As you can probably guess, the list of Colorado’s top multi-day hiking trails could go on for a longer time than we got. For a unique time, and probably better digs than your tent, consider hiking to the 10th Mountain backcountry hut system . These rental cabins are located throughout the national forest around Leadville, ranging in size and amenities, most fairly bare bones.
Do you have a favorite multi-day hiking trail in Colorado that you care to share? Please do so in our comments. Thanks for reading!
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About Matt Thomas
Matt is an avid writer and explorer, who loves to showcase this wild, wondrous world. His favorite place to be is right here in the Centennial State.
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15 Best Backpacking In Colorado Routes (From A Local)
Are you looking for the best backpacking in Colorado?
Colorado is full of outdoor adventure options ranging from some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world to some of the best hiking trails right outside of Denver to some of the best backpacking loops in the country!
Having lived in Colorado and as avid hikers and backpackers, we know the best backpacking in Colorado to enjoy.
The state of Colorado truly has it all and with its 300 days of sunshines, there is plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore the mountains year round.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado The best backpacking in Colorado as Sam and Abby complete a trek.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/IMG_4309-1024x768.jpg)
The Best Backpacking in Colorado
Below I have highlighted the best backpacking in Colorado for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
1. Continental Divide Loop – Best for Experienced Backpackers Looking for a 3 Day 2 Night Backpacking Adventure
The Continental Divide Loop is about 30 miles long. This loop will take past some of the most beautiful scenery inside of Rocky Mountain National Park as you hike past waterfalls, alpine lakes, greenery, and much more.
This loop typically takes 3 days to complete and is considered quite hard due to its length and elevation gain.
There are quite a few requirements that you will need to backpack the Continental Divide Loop in Colorado.
You will need a National Park Pass , backcountry camping permit , and a bear canister .
Lastly, you will have to leave your furry friend at home. Dogs are not allowed on the Continental Divide Loop.
2. Colorado Trail (Segment 7) – Best for Those Searching for 1 Night Backpacking Trips in Colorado
The Colorado Trail is 567 miles long and goes from Denver all the way to Durango.
The Colorado Trail (or CT) is split up into 28 different segments, each of which has its own access point for you to hop on or off of the trail.
On average it takes about 4 to 6 weeks to complete the whole Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango. However, if you are looking for a shorter backpacking trip… look at completing just 1 of the 28 segments.
We highly recommend Segment 7 of the Colorado Trail due to its endless scenery and being right near the incredible town of Frisco.
Segment 7 is about 14 miles in length and is considered a hard hike.
Camping is allowed on most of the Colorado Trail and permits are NOT required.
We highly recommend that you check out The Colorado Trail Foundation website for more information.
Lastly, feel free to bring your pup along with you on your journey! The Colorado Trail is dog friendly, just be sure to bring extra food, water, and treats for your furry friend to enjoy.
3. Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop – One of Colorado’s Most Popular Summer Time Backpacking Loops
The Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is an excellent backpacking trip for those looking to do a 3 to 4 day trek through one of Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes.
The loop is about 27 miles in length and you pass through four major traverses: West Maroon, Frigid Air, Trail Rider, and Buckskin.
This loop is considered to be a hard route and can be trekked clockwise or counter-clockwise.
You will see endless beautiful views and scenery including alpine lakes, dramatic mountain views, wildflowers, and much more.
If you are looking for a truly memorable experience with views of the infamous Maroon Bells just outside of the popular city of Aspen, look no further.
Plus, the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is dog friendly!
You DO need a permit to hike this loop. Also, you will need a parking or shuttle reservation in advance. Additionally, bear canisters are required in this area.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado The Best Backpacking in Colorado with views of the Maroon Bells in Aspen.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/DSC_0338-1024x683.jpg)
4. Lost Creek Wilderness Loop – An Excellent Weekend Backpacking Trip in Colorado with Unique Views and Terrain
Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is an excellent backpacking trail for those looking for a less trafficked trek compared to some of the more popular routes.
This backpacking route provides you with countless unique views, terrain, and landscapes compared to “typical” Colorado backpacking.
This loop provides you with views of different rock and granite formations along with various other landscapes throughout your trip.
The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is just over 28 miles in length and is considered a hard loop.
Be sure to bring along with you your favorite backpacking pillow for side sleepers and your go-to hiking flashlight , along with your other backpacking essentials so that you have the most optimal experience while out in the wilderness.
Additionally, you are required to grab a self-issuing permit at the trailhead and keep the permit on you as you trek through the wilderness.
This allows forest service members to better keep track of visitation in the area.
Lastly, you may bring your furry friend along with you on your backpacking excursion as long as they are kept on leash!
5. Pine River Trail – A “Hidden Gem” Backpacking Route for Intermediate Trekkers
The Pine River Trail is a phenomenal option for those looking for a lesser known backpacking route with some solidarity and time with nature.
This trail is rated intermediate and is great for “average” backpackers or beginners that feel they are ready to push themselves a bit.
This trail is about 28 miles in length but has pretty flat terrain with the occasional uphill elevation gain.
You will mainly pass through wide meadows or tree filled areas. Additionally, dogs are welcome on this trail and may be off leash in some areas!
6. Sand Ramp Trail – Most Unique Backpacking Experience in Colorado
The Sand Ramp Trail is the most unique backpacking experience you can get in the beautiful state of Colorado.
This trail is inside of Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to the largest sand dunes in North America.
This trail is about 7 miles in length and is considered a moderate trail.
We recommend that you bring sandals or socks to wear, we found it better to walk barefoot than with our shoes on but definitely bring both!
Furthermore, you will need to pay an entrance fee to get into the National Park. Additionally, you will need a permit to camp in the backcountry.
From our knowledge and experience, dogs are allowed but must be on leash.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado The largest sand dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park where you can trek some of the best backing in Colorado.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/DSC_0523-1024x683.jpg)
7. Snowmass Lake and Mountain via Maroon Snowmass Trail
This trail is a little over 21 miles in length and is an out and back trip. This backpacking route is right near the town of Snowmass so the location cannot be beat.
Additionally, the trail takes you past many beautiful lakes, mountain views, and terrific scenery.
This route is considered a hard trail and is very popular amongst backpackers. You may camp in designated areas and it does not require a permit.
However, you do need to register your visitation days at the trailhead. Plus, the Snowmass Lake trail is dog friendly so feel free to bring your pup along!
8. Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness – A Memorable Train Ride to Start Your Adventure
Yes, you read that right. You will need to take a train ride to start your Chicago Basin backpacking excursion.
(You don’t have to take the train ride if you want to add a day or two to your backpacking trip but countless backpackers recommend taking the train journey to start your trek!)
Most backpackers recommend taking the train from Durango to the Needleton stop. Once you get off at Needleton, you will begin your backpacking adventure!
The Chicago Basin Trail is considered a hard route and about 15 miles in length out and back.
During your trek, you will see countless beautiful mountain views and scenery around you.
Plus, the hike is dog friendly so pets are welcome on leash! Lastly, according to our knowledge, there is no permit required for this trail.
We recommend that you take the train ride because it adds some adventure to your trip and is sure to add to the excitement!
However, if you would rather skip the train, you will begin your journey at the Purgatory Creek Trail and your backpacking trip will more than double in size to about 32 miles in length!
9. Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop
This loop is in the Nederland area of Colorado and is about 15 miles in length. This is a great option for those looking for a 1 night backpacking trip or could be split up into 2 nights!
You will pass through forest areas, meadows, tree lines, and pass several alpine lakes.
This loop does require a local permit for overnight camping in the area. Additionally, it is dog friendly so your pet can come with you!
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Mountains with snow and greenery surrounding an alpine lake in the center.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/IMG_4367-1024x768.jpg)
10. Gore Lake Trail
This trail is right near Vail, Colorado so the location is excellent! The Gore Lake Trail is about 12 miles in length out and back.
This route is considered a hard trail and will contain some truly breathtaking scenery as you take in the beautiful mountain landscape, the trees overhead, various rock formations, and much more. Plus, dogs are welcome along this route!
This is a great option for those looking for 1 night backpacking trips in Colorado! It’s also important to mention that you are required to have an overnight camping permit for this trail.
This is an excellent option for those looking for a backpacking adventure and would like to finish up near a bustling mountain town!
11. Buffalo Peaks Loop
The Buffalo Peaks Loop is in Pike National Forest and is a little less than 12 miles in length.
This loop is considered a popular backpacking route but is rated hard due to its terrain and elevation.
You will spend most of your hike in the woods surrounded by trees before popping out and catching a glimpse of the beautiful terrain from up top.
Plus, dogs are allowed on this loop and may be off leash in some areas!
12. Mohawk Lake to Pacific Peak and Crystal Peak
This trail is right near Breckenridge and is about a 12 mile loop trail. It is a lesser known backpacking route so it will be less crowded than some of the bigger name and more popular trails in Colorado.
Plus, it is dog friendly so you can bring your pet with you!
It’s important to note, that this trail is rated quite hard and the elevation gain is hefty!
We definitely recommend this hike for more experienced backpackers looking for a less crowded trail.
13. Mount of the Holy Cross Trail
This trail is about 12 miles in length and very popular amongst backpackers of all skill levels.
This trail is an out and back route that has significant elevation gain throughout the trek!
The views throughout this backpacking trip are outrageous as you see drastic mountain views in the distance, it is truly breathtaking.
Plus, this trail is dog friendly which is always an added bonus for dog owners!
14. Fern Lake Trail
This trail is about 8 miles out and back inside of Rocky Mountain National Park. It is a beautiful trail with lake views and countless wildlife sightings.
This trail is considered moderate so it is good for intermediate backpackers or beginners looking for a challenge.
This trail is inside of Rocky Mountain National Park which requires you to have a permit for overnight backpacking .
Additionally, you will have to leave your dog at home because they are not allowed on this trail.
15. Vallecito Creek Trail
This trail is about 13 miles in length out and back near the Bayfield area. It is considered a moderately hard trail with views of trees and a creek throughout your trek.
Additionally, pets are allowed on this trail and may be off leash in some areas! This is an excellent backpacking trip for beginners and intermediates alike.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Greenery and trees with the mountains in the distance on a hike in Colorado.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/IMG_7806-1024x768.jpg)
Colorado Backpacking FAQs
Below I have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about backpacking in Colorado.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Abby and Clover backpacking in Colorado with mountains in the distance.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/IMG_9701-768x1024.jpg)
Where should I go backpacking in Colorado?
There are countless destinations to go backpacking in Colorado. We highly recommend that you check out the 15 we listed above for some of the best trekking in the state.
Additionally, make sure to check the AllTrails app for more recommendations.
Is Colorado good for backpacking?
Colorado is an excellent place for backpacking! The state of Colorado is known for its beautiful Rocky Mountains along with its endless outdoor excursions including backpacking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, and so much more.
When should I go backpacking in Colorado?
The best time to go backpacking in Colorado is usually between the months of March through November.
However, it really depends on which areas you are looking to explore and their elevation.
Be sure to check the AllTrails app before embarking on your backpacking trip.
This app will tell you about the best time to hike that specific trail along with more details and requirements when it comes to backpacking, hiking, and camping throughout Colorado.
Do I need a permit to backpack in Colorado?
You do not always need a permit to backpack in Colorado. However, many trails and loops do require permits.
We recommend using the AllTrails app to learn more about permit requirements throughout the state.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Sam and Clover backpacking in Colorado.](https://trekkingprices.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/IMG_9693-768x1024.jpg)
We hope this list of the best backpacking in Colorado helps you plan your next overnight backpacking excursion!
For similar posts, be sure to check out 15 Best Energy Bars for Hiking 2023 and Crampons vs Microspikes: Which Should You Use and When? Happy Backpacking!
Abby and Sam Price are the founders of Trekking Price's. They are travel experts and outdoor enthusiasts passionate about sharing their travels, hobbies, tips, and recommendations with others. They primarily focus on United States travel and their outdoor adventures and hobbies. Their favorite hobbies are hiking, skiing and snowboarding, scuba diving, fishing, and pretty much any outdoor recreational activity. They are on a mission to help other couples and families see more of the world without having to quit their 9-5 jobs and love sharing their travels, reviews, and hobbies with others.
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Our Top 10 Overnight Backpacking Trips in Rocky Mountain National Park
Looking for the best short overnight backpacking trips in Colorado? At Kirks Mountain Adventures, we are no stranger to Rocky Mountain National Park backpacking trips. In fact, we have been guiding them for almost 20 years! Whether your group is looking for a guided overnight backpacking trip , or are just looking for some recommendations of the best places to go backpacking in Rocky Mountain National Park, we can help!
Here are some of our favorite backcountry sites that can be conquered as a one-night, two-day overnight backpacking trip!
![1 night backpacking trips colorado fern lake, Rocky Mountain National Park](https://www.kirksmountainadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25.png)
1. Fern, Odessa, and Spruce Lake
There is likely not a location in the National Park that we have not escorted more guided backpacking trips to than Fern Lake. With exceptional views, excellent fishing, and abundant day trip opportunities from base camp, there is nothing not to love about Fern Lake. The hike to the Fern Lake site is roughly 4 miles, which can easily be done in the morning. After setting up camp, backpackers have the opportunity to explore the lake, or hike an additional mile in either direction to explore either Odessa Lake or Spruce Lake, which each receive a lot less foot traffic.
2. Emerald Lake
Starting from the Bear Lake Trailhead, this relatively easy 3.6-mile hike takes you through alpine meadows and dense forests before reaching the pristine Emerald Lake. Emerald Lake, nestled beneath towering peaks, offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains on its tranquil surface. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful evening surrounded by nature’s wonders. Prepare for awe-inspiring mountain views, serene waters, and a well-maintained trail suitable for backpackers of various skill levels.
3. Finch Lake
Finch Lake is a great 2-day backpacking trip for people making their first Colorado backpacking outing. At 4.5 miles, Finch Lake is a moderate hike, and features a gradual elevation change. What is great about Finch Lake is that it is not nearly as crowded as some of the other hikes in the park. The two Finch Lake sites offer quick stream access to water, and excellent colors during the fall season. If you have no interest in fly fishing, Finch Lake is a quiet spot for you to pitch a tent, as the adsense of fish in the lake attracts no anglers. For those looking for a more ambitious day trip from basecamp at Finch Lake, the gorgeous Pear Lake is another two miles up the trail!
![1 night backpacking trips colorado a hiker stands on the trail overlooking lawn lake in Rocky Mountain National Park](https://www.kirksmountainadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/26.png)
4. Lawn Lake
At 6.2 miles, Lawn Lake is a slightly further trek for overnight backpackers, but easily achievable. The hike to Lawn Lake is beautiful, as the majority of the trail follows Boulder Brook, thick with wildlife and wildflowers. There are multiple backcountry sites that can be reserved along the trail to Lawn, but the best sites are just 150 yards from the edge of the lake, nestled up against rocky cliffs. The fishing in Lawn Lake is some of the best in the entire National Park, and those who aren’t interested in fishing have the opportunity to hike an additional mile to the clear blue waters of Crystal Lake sitting in a cirque above Lawn Lake.
5. Longs Peak Overnight Trip
This trip is not for the faint of heart, but rather for the group looking for the most complete and memorable Colorado backpacking experience that can be found. Longs Peak is arguably Colorado’s most iconic 14er, and the overnight Boulder Field site is one of the highest designated campsites in the state. Well above the treeline, backpackers who visit this backcountry site have the opportunity to pitch a tent right below Longs Peak at nearly 13,000 feet. In the morning, you have the opportunity to take on the most challenging part of the trek, the last two miles to the summit of Longs Peak. Due to the elevation, this trip is typically only possible in late July and August for the average backpacker.
Need some extra guidance? Book one of our guided Longs Peak hiking trips and our Rocky Mountain National Park hiking guides will navigate the trails with you.
6. Mills Lake
Embark on a 2.8-mile journey from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead through spruce-fir forests and open meadows. Mills Lake, cradled beneath towering peaks, offers stunning vistas and pristine waters. The surrounding boulders provide great spots for relaxation and photography. A shorter but slightly more challenging hike, with exceptional mountain views, and a serene atmosphere by the lake.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado lake haiyaha in rocky mountain national park](https://www.kirksmountainadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27.png)
7. Lake Haiyaha
Begin your 2.7-mile backpacking trip in Rocky Mountain National Park from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, passing through scenic landscapes with occasional steep sections. Lake Haiyaha impresses with its rocky shoreline and picturesque setting. Nestled amidst boulders and evergreens, it’s a unique place to spend the night. Some rocky terrain, possible marmot sightings, and a tranquil alpine lake experience.
8. Sky Pond
Set out from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead on a 4.9-mile hike, passing Alberta Falls and traversing diverse terrain. Sky Pond is a stunning glacial basin surrounded by waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. The views are worth the effort, and you might even encounter some snowfields. Varied landscapes, challenging sections, rewarding panoramic views, and a taste of Rocky Mountain grandeur.
9. Granite Falls
Starting from the Green Mountain Trailhead, this 5.1-mile hike takes you along the Big Thompson River, revealing the park’s lush side. Granite Falls is a powerful cascade nestled in a verdant valley. Enjoy the soothing sound of rushing water as you relax in this peaceful setting. A riverside hike, lush vegetation, and the serene ambiance of a secluded waterfall.
10. Black Lake
Begin your 6.2-mile journey at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, passing through meadows, forests, and rocky terrain.Black Lake is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and offers reflections of the towering peaks. The pristine waters and alpine landscape make it a memorable spot to spend the night. A longer and more challenging hike, diverse landscapes, potential snowfields, and a sense of remote wilderness.
Do I need a permit for overnight backpacking in Rocky Mountain National Park?
It should be noted that for every backcountry site in RMNP, a backcountry permit is required for an overnight stay. These sites will often book up months in advance. If you are going to be backpacking on your own, you will have to first check the RMNP permit reservation system on Recreation.gov . If you are interested in a guided Rocky Mountain National Park backpacking trip , we would be happy to check this list for you after discussing some of your preferred locations with you. In order to get the dates and sites you want, it is always better to call sooner rather than later!
If you have any further questions about hiking Rocky Mountain National Park or overnight backpacking trips in Colorado , we are happy to help!
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Backpacking in Colorado for One Night: Me, Myself, and my RV
RV Lifestyle | get inspired
The term “backpacking” immediately conjures up visions of difficult terrain and multi-day treks. But whoever said those were requirements? There’s actually a lot to be said for more manageable, bite-sized backpacking adventures, like weekend or even overnight trips. Between balancing a career, family, and social obligations, many of us simply (and sadly!) don’t have extended periods of time to go off-grid on the trail. I certainly fall into that category, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have any time for adventuring. Recently, I tried a new-to-me type of adventure: I rented a Cruise America RV for a few days and tackled a few shorter, overnight backpacking trails. This allowed me to enjoy both the freedom of camping outdoors and the luxury and comfort of RV camping — truly the best of both worlds.
My Personal Backpacking Goal
It’s no secret that Colorado is a hikers’ and backpackers’ paradise. Between the spectacularly beautiful scenery, seemingly perpetual sunshine, and challenging, varied terrain (did you know Colorado has 58 fourteeners?!), Colorado is the holy grail of backpacking. I’ve always really enjoyed backpacking and I’ve also always been drawn to Colorado. Who could blame me? — Mother Nature is at her finest there. So, Colorado was a no-brainer for my solo backpacking destination. Just me, my hiking pack , and my rental RV.
Colorado or Bust
![Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-2.jpg Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-2.jpg](https://www.cruiseamerica.com/getattachment/rv-adventures/RV-Destinations/backpacking-in-colorado-for-one-night/Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-2.jpg)
Devil’s Thumb to King Lake
I wanted to ease into backpacking in Colorado, so starting with this loop was an easy decision. Not only is the total distance a manageable 16.5 miles, but the hike is in Nederland, just over an hour from Denver. The initial five-mile ascent to Devil’s Thumb Lake is the most difficult stretch, gaining 2,000 feet. I found a great campsite right near the lake, then tackled the remaining 11-ish miles the following morning. The wildflowers and views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness are incredible in the summer, so take your time to — literally — stop and smell the flowers. I parked my Cruise America RV at the Hessie Trailhead , but there are a couple of things to note. This trailhead also provides access to the extremely popular Lost Lake, so it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Try to hike on a weekday as I did, or alternatively, take the free Boulder County Hessie Shuttle .
Four Pass Loop
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area is home to some of Colorado’s most iconic scenery, so backpacking here was high on my list. Formally known as Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin , this route covers 27 miles and spans four peaks — each over 12,000 feet. From Maroon Lake, you can hike either direction since the trail is a loop. After extensive research, I chose to go counter-clockwise. This allows you to hike down the steepest, most treacherous stretch of the route (Buckskin Pass), as opposed to hiking up . I’m all about working smarter, not harder. I hiked about 14 miles before pitching my tent at a scenic spot overlooking one of several lakes, then did the remaining 13 miles the next day. There are a few important notes I have about backpacking Four Pass Loop. You must stop at the ranger station to register and get a wilderness permit on your way in. It doesn’t cost anything; it’s for safety purposes. You’re also required to have a bear canister for food and toiletries, and you will be asked to show it.
Colorado Trail
I rounded out my Colorado backpacking experience on one of the most coveted trails of all — the Colorado Trail . Well, a section of it anyway — the entire CT is 485 miles long, so a bit ambitious for an overnight trip. Fortunately, the trail is divided into 28 segments, each with its own access point. Since the CT runs from Denver to Durango, each segment is dramatically different. I absolutely love the rugged San Juans in southwestern Colorado, so I opted for segment 22: Spring Creek Pass Trailhead to Carson Saddle. I chose this segment because it has the trail’s highest point at 13,271 feet. Segment 22 is also entirely above the treeline and spans about 17 miles. Spring Creek Pass Trailhead is one of the more accessible points on the CT, which is another reason I chose it. However, Carson Saddle is not — 4-wheel-drive is required. Thankfully, the Colorado Trail Foundation maintains a list of “shuttlers,” people who voluntarily drive you to/from the trailheads. You need to plan in advance if you want to use a shuttler, but I highly recommend it. I hiked segment 22, spent one night on the trail, then got back to my rental RV the following day with no issues whatsoever.
Things I Learned While Backpacking in Colorado
![Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-3.jpg Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-3.jpg](https://www.cruiseamerica.com/getattachment/rv-adventures/RV-Destinations/backpacking-in-colorado-for-one-night/Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-3.jpg)
- Weather often changes at high altitudes with zero warning. Bring a good rain jacket and keep it accessible, not stuffed down into your pack.
- Long-distance hiking is an excellent time to self-reflect. We live in such a busy, fast-paced world and that unplugged sort of stillness is increasingly rare. Savor that time on the trail, whether it’s just a couple hours or several days.
- Along the same lines, I realized that there really is no substitute for time spent in nature. No matter how much I set aside time to “unplug” at home, whether by reading or going for a walk, it simply doesn’t compare to immersing myself in Mother Nature.
- The backpacking and hiking community is incredible. I’ve truly never met people as friendly, knowledgeable, or helpful as I have on the trails.
- You can always go a little farther. There were several times I got so tired that I wanted to quit. I didn’t, because I wanted to stay on target with my pace or make camp for the night while I still had daylight — and I never once regretted it. You always have another mile or two in you, no matter how exhausted you are.
Other Colorado Bucket List Trails
![Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-1.jpg Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-1.jpg](https://www.cruiseamerica.com/getattachment/rv-adventures/RV-Destinations/backpacking-in-colorado-for-one-night/Backpacking-in-Colorado-for-One-Night-Me,-Myself,-and-my-RV-1.jpg)
- Continental Divide Trail
- Chicago Lakes
- Lost Creek Wilderness
- Upper Cataract Lake
- Buffalo Peaks Loop
Overnight Backpacking in Colorado: Worth it?
Honestly, everyone should experience this type of backpacking! Colorado is a wonderful place for it because of the extensive trail networks and their accessibility, but don’t feel like you need to travel to enjoy the benefits. Whether you have a single night or several weeks, gather some supplies and simply get out there! You will not regret it, and the experience can literally change your life.
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10 Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado
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There are so many beautiful hikes in Colorado it is unbelievable. You can enjoy many different terrains and you can see the Aspens turn color in the Fall, snowcapped mountains in the winter, flowing waterfalls in the spring, and beautiful wildflowers in the summer. So we created our list of the 10 Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado, which include:
1. Wild Basin, Rocky Mountain National Park 2. Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass 3. Chinese Wall Loop, Flat Top Wilderness 4. Chicago Basin, San Juan Mountains 5. Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop 6. Lost Creek Loop 7. Continental Divide Loop 8. Blue Lakes Trail 9. Conundrum Hot Spring 10. Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop
Backpacking in Colorado can be exhilarating any time of the year but can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. Rock slides, avalanches, wildlife such as bears, moose, and sheep, can all keep you on your toes in the wilderness.
Check out some of these popular trails, tips, and cautions below before you load up your backpack and head out.
How to Choose the Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado
There is a lot of advice to take in before you plan your first trip. There are many easy tips that will help you have a good experience when you go. There are also a lot of things you can do prior to the trip that will help with that experience as well.
Start by taking short, regular day trips and increase your distance each time you go out. Download an AllTrails app that gives information on each trip, the length, and the difficulty. Try some easy hikes and work up to the more difficult ones. Once you feel comfortable, plan a short overnight trip and travel a modest distance. 10-15 miles, depending on your fitness, is a good place to start.
While you are getting ready physically for your hike, make sure you will be carrying the proper gear. An ill-fitting pack could ruin your trip. Check out your local sporting goods store and find someone who can help make sure the pack fits right. Try several brands before making your decision. Once you find one that fits well for you, you can practice with a test run. Instead of being somewhere in the wilderness suffering, you can make adjustments in your own neighborhood while you practice and get prepared.
Of course, you will need lightweight gear for your hikes such as a sleeping pad , sleeping bag , and tent . You want to make sure the pack will hold what you need but you also don’t need to overpack. Make room for essentials like rain gear and dress in layers to keep you warm as you head to higher elevations. Pack plenty of water and snacks loaded with electrolytes to combat altitude sickness.
Choose Your Beginner Hiking Trail Location
State and national parks are a great place to start and you can take advantage of the rangers’ knowledge of the area. They can help you to know the difficulty of trails, water sources, and campsite locations so you can determine the best route. If you want, you can also hire a guide or bring along an experienced friend for support.
How Do I Choose an Appropriate Trail for a Beginner?
If you are just starting out, you will want to hike a trip with relatively low mileage. Choose ones that don’t have an extreme elevation gain for the region and travel on well-maintained trails and avoid more difficult trails. AllTrails is a great app to find trail details and comments from those who have hiked there recently. There are also plenty of books that highlight the many hiking trails that are suitable for beginners…
Do You Need a Permit to Backpack in Colorado?
There are many trails in Colorado that don’t require a permit, but the best advice is to know before you go. Due to COVID, busy trails, fires, and a myriad of other reasons, the National Park Service may be changing requirements on many of the more popular trails.
Places such as Rocky Mountain National Park require a $30 Wilderness Administrative fee for backcountry camping. These can be picked up at Headquarters Wilderness Office or can be acquired online. Go to NPS.gov for more information on permits for areas you would like to backpack. A few required a self-issued permit at the trailhead (free).
What are the Best Months for a Beginner to Backpack in Colorado?
The best time to hike many of the trails in Colorado is early July to mid-September. Trails above 10,000 feet can be covered in snow until late June and again in late September.
Where Can I Backpack in Colorado in May?
Lost Creek Wilderness, near Bailey, in central Colorado, is most often the first area to open to backpackers in Colorado high country and the last to close. So there is a possibility of the trails being open in mid-May. It is more likely you can traverse lower elevations during the month of May.
Where Can You Backpack in Colorado Without a Permit?
Indian peaks wilderness.
Indian Peaks Wilderness is a 73,391 acre wilderness area near Denver. You don’t need a permit for groups of seven or less between Sept. 16 and May 31. Check out the fall color, waterfalls, and wildflowers on an eight-mile climb to Upper Diamond Lake.
Flat Tops Wilderness
With a three foot wide trail at its narrowest, and 80 foot cliffs falling away on either side, Flat Tops Wilderness may not be one for the beginner backpacker, but it does not require a permit. If you brave the trail, you will see views of Little Causeway Lake, stunted basalt domes, and alpine meadows below.
Maroon Bells—Snowmass Wilderness
This federally designated wilderness area just 12 miles southwest of Aspen doesn’t require a permit. The 28-mile Four Pass Loop, circles twin fourteeners.
Lost Creek Wilderness
The Goose Creek portion of the 28-mile Lost Creek Loop is an evergreen forest dotted with meadows, aspen stands, and granite outcroppings and arches. The lower elevation means it is good for early and late-season outings.
You can read more about these beginner trails below.
Is the Colorado Trail too Dangerous for Beginners?
The Colorado Trail is a rigorous trek that affects even the most seasoned hikers with its high altitude. The state-wide trail runs from Denver’s Waterton Canyon to Durango. Elevations and difficulties of the sections vary but backpackers can hike any part of its 486 miles. Allow 4-6 weeks if you plan to hike this entire trail. The average elevation is 10,300 feet. The best time to go is from late June to early September.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Is the Colorado Trail too Dangerous for Beginners?](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/colorado-trail.jpg)
What Do You Need for a Hiking Trip in Colorado?
Adding to your standard gear of pack, bedroll, rain gear, you will also need to be properly prepared with items such as:
- first aid kit (RVBlogger Recommended)
- water purifier
- fire starter
- a shelter of some kind
- trekking poles
- bear spray (RVBlogger Recommended)
Also, know that your cell phone is not likely to have a signal when you are in the wilderness. Hike with a friend whenever possible and let friends and family members know where you are going and when you plan to return. If you are a beginner, it might not be a bad idea to check out guided hikes in Colorado . There are plenty to find at differing price levels.
If you are injured on the trail and are solo, stay on the trail and wait. Also, afternoon storms are common so start each day out early and be prepared. They don’t usually last very long.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado What Do You Need for a Hiking Trip in Colorado?](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Hikers_with_packs-1024x657.jpg)
Are There Any Overnight Hikes for Beginners in Colorado?
With more than 22 million acres of public land, you can find waterfalls, summit views, plenty of wildlife, wildflowers, and more on the trails in Colorado. Don’t be afraid to “go for it,” if backpacking is something you would like to do. There is plenty of help from experienced hikers who can tell you the best trails. Soon you will be out there discovering trails on your own.
1. Wild Basin, Rocky Mountain National Park
This is a great hike, not only for beginners but for families as well. People who want an amazing experience can choose this area, stay in one place for several nights and explore many beautiful areas of Rocky Mountain National Park. You can stay near the shore of Ouzel Lake, with views of the alpine peaks and ridges of the Continental Divide, and hike to other alpine lakes. You can see wildlife, waterfalls, and maybe elk or moose. You can fish in the lake or take day trips to various other parts of the area.
On the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park and south of Estes Park, this hike can be customized to fit your time and abilities. In the vicinity are Mt. Copeland, Mahana Peak, and Ouzel Peak, as well as trails such as Bluebird Lake, Copeland Falls, Finch Lake, and Pear Lake, to name a few.
- Difficulty Level – beginner
- Elevation Change – 2,500 feet
- Distance – 14 miles
- Length – 3-4 days
- Permit Required – yes from May 1-Oct.1
- Route Type – out and back
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Wild-basin.jpg)
2. Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass
This hike from Crested Butte to Aspen is one of the more popular trails leading you to views of the Raggeds and Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness areas. Going from one classic mountain town to another you see awesome views, mountain lakes, a stunning ridgeline highpoint, and beautiful wildflowers. This hike can also be reversed for a more difficult challenge with an elevation gain of 3,265 feet.
You currently need reservations to make the trip. A link through the AllTrails app will guide you to the proper place to make your reservation. On this hike, you will also need to make sure you have shuttle arrangements unless you want to hike back to the Crested Butte trailhead. There are several shuttles that you can use, but make sure you make a reservation well in advance of starting your trip. An out-and-back would be a 20-mile, 3-4 day trip.
- Elevation Change – 2,400 feet
- Distance – 10.2 miles
- Length – 2 days
- Permit Required – no from May 1-Oct.1
- Route Type – point to point
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass Beginner Backpacking Trip in Colorado](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/CB-to-aspen.jpg)
3. Chinese Wall Loop, Flat Top Wilderness
As one of the first designated wilderness areas in the history of public lands, the Flat Top Wilderness Area is home to more than 100 lakes. On the Chinese Wall Loop trail , you will be over 11,000 feet in elevation. The uphill climb is difficult but once above the tree line, the views are amazing. The area is quiet and a good trip for beginners to push the envelope of endurance.
Make sure you know certain restrictions that you must follow for this wilderness area which specify no motorized or mechanical transport of any kind is allowed.
- Elevation Change – 3,500 feet
- Distance – 26 miles
- Length – 4-5 days
- Permit Required – no
- Route Type – loop
![1 night backpacking trips colorado How to Choose the Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Flat_Top_Mountain_1-1024x768.jpg)
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4. Chicago Basin, San Juan Mountains
Located near Durango, this backpacking trip is unique in that you start your adventure with a train ride to the trailhead. You will take the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway to the Needleton stop 30 miles north of Durango. Once you are dropped off, it is an elevation gain of 3,000 feet to get to the base camp which is well-established with tent sites and water that is easily accessible. It is patrolled regularly by park rangers.
Chicago is in the heart of the Weminuche Wilderness in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. If you want more of a challenge, you can use the Needle Creek campground as a basecamp and attempt any of the three 14ers that rise above. These are technical and only recommended with proper training and gear. A more moderate challenge is a hike to Twin Lakes to get views of the mountains surrounding the valley. It is only a two mile round trip hike but gains roughly 1,200 feet in that mile.
- Difficulty Level – beginner-expert
- Elevation Change – 2,800 feet
- Distance – 12 miles
- Length – 2-3 days
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Are There Any Overnight Hikes for Beginners in Colorado?](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/san-juan-mountains.jpg)
5. Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop
Check out this backpacking trip in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. On this route , you will see wildflowers in the spring and many moose and elk. Views of the surrounding mountains once you arrive at the Continental Divide are spectacular. Local regulations require permitting for camping overnight. You can do this hike in a day, but for a more relaxed trip and more time to spend looking at the awesome views you will likely want to stick around.
Begin your hike at Hessie Trail. The town of Nederland has a free shuttle to the trailhead. At more than five miles up is Devil’s Thumb Lake. Continue the loop on Lonesome Trail to King Lake, then Devil’s Thumb Pass.
- Difficulty Level – beginner
- Elevation Change – 3,533 feet
- Distance – 16 miles
- Permit Required – yes, https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675318
6. Lost Creek Loop
Just a few hours from Colorado Springs, this is a well populated trail with ample water and good trail markings. It’s a good spot for beginners who want to push the envelope in length and elevation change. The Lost Creek Loop features awesome views of the surrounding mountains with an abundance of granite rock formations to explore. There is a self-issued permit you will need to fill out prior to leaving the trailhead. These allow Forest Service rangers to track user days, provide information about your trip, and help in an emergency.
Embark from the Goose Creek trailhead and wind your way through aspen groves, meadows, and the Goose Creek drainage, with granite spires. You will have great views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Mosquito Range. If you take the loop counter-clockwise, you will save the best scenery for last.
- Difficulty Level – beginner/moderate
- Elevation Change – 5,300 feet
- Distance – 28.5 miles
- Permit Required – yes, filled out at the trailhead
![1 night backpacking trips colorado The Lost Creek Loop features awesome views of the surrounding mountains with an abundance of granite rock formations to explore.](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Lost-creek-1024x767.jpg)
7. Continental Divide Loop
On this 27 mile adventure, you will traverse peaks, valleys, glaciers, and marshy meadows. You will pass by several waterfalls and lakes over the first sections of the hike which are perfect places to make camp or just take a break. The latter portions are above the tree line. You can take five days to complete the loop or take a partial loop instead.
For an epic challenge, take six months to traverse the Continental Divide Trail . Some 740 miles of this trail is in central Colorado with a high point of Grays Peak at 14,270 feet. Waterton Lake in Montana is its lowest point at 4,200 feet. More than 1,000 summits in Colorado top 10,000 feet on the Continental Divide Trail.
- Difficulty Level – moderate
- Elevation Change – 4,947 feet
- Distance – 27 miles
- Permit Required – reservations required through www.nps.gov
![1 night backpacking trips colorado What are the Best Months to Backpack in Colorado?](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/continental-divide-trail-1024x768.jpg)
8. Blue Lakes Trail
As one of the premier hiking trails in the Northern San Juan Mountains, this hike is convenient to the town of Ridgway and the trail is challenging but not too difficult for hikers of moderate abilities. Blue Lakes Trail starts climbing from Dallas Creek and continues with alternating stretches of moderately steep climbs to flat recovery. The trail follows the west side of the Dallas Creek drainage until it reaches the lake. Look for a breathtaking display of wildflowers in June and July.
Just before Lower Blue Lake, the trail splits to the left up past Middle and Upper Blue Lakes and on to Blue Lake Pass. Backcountry camping is allowed on Lower Blue Lake. Hikers will enjoy the Dallas Divide peaks and the steep cirque sloping down to the lake is awesome. The lower lake is just 3.5 miles in and is a nice spot to camp for the night. From there, hike a half mile to the middle lake and another quarter mile to the upper lake for some stunning alpine views.
- Distance – 7.6 miles
- Length – overnight
![1 night backpacking trips colorado How to Choose the Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/blue-lake-trail.jpg)
9. Conundrum Hot Spring
The Conundrum Hot Spring trail leads to a hot spring in a remote section of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area of the White River National Forest. The hot mineral water collects in craters as well as at several rock-lined soaking pools nearby.
You will want to take two days to hike this trail to get in all you want to see, including meadows, peaks, and evergreen forests. The trail is well-maintained and ends up at a grouping of clothing-optional pools overlooking Conundrum Peak Valley. You can set up camp at one of the many sites surrounding the springs.
- Elevation Change – 3,200 feet
- Distance – 17 miles
- Permit Required – yes, plus register at the trail
![1 night backpacking trips colorado The Conundrum Hot Spring trail leads to a hot spring in a remote section of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area of the White River National Forest. The hot mineral water collects in craters as well as at several rock-lined soaking pools nearby.](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/conundrum.jpg)
10. Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop
Once you feel confident in your abilities as a backpacker, you can attempt the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop which circles Maroon Bells, climbing four 12,000 foot passes. This is one of the more difficult beginner backpacking trips in Colorado. You will see amazing scenery including wildflowers, nearby peaks, meadows, scenic forests, and alpine lakes. This hike is challenging for even those who are in good shape. It is recommended to complete the loop clockwise for a path that is slightly less steep. A bear-proof container for your provisions is required.
This hike begins from the Maroon Bells Scenic Area in Aspen Highlands. There is a special overnight parking area below Maroon Lake to start the hike where a permit is required. This is best done during summer and begins at 9,580 feet and peaks at 12,500 feet. Individuals need to self-register at the trailhead.
- Difficulty Level – expert
- Elevation Change – 8,000 feet
- Distance – 26.6 miles
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado](https://rvblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/maroon-bells.jpg)
Final Thoughts about Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado
No matter your age or ability, we hope our list of the 10 Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado will help you find a trail that meets your hiking level and needs. There is something beautiful around every corner in Colorado so start planning your trip today !. Don’t be afraid to stretch yourself by doing some of the more difficult hikes, once you feel ready. You will get a great feeling of accomplishment when you complete a bucket list trip.
Related Reading:
11 best colorado bucket list things to do, the best rv camping in and near denver, colorado, the 8 best rv campgrounds in colorado, 10 best rv rentals in denver in 2021plus discount code, 8 best rv rentals in grand junction, co, can a bear get into an rv bear proof your camper, about the author…, terri nighswonger – author and full time rver.
Terri Nighswonger and her husband Todd have been RVing and work camping for six years with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Newton, and their Minnie Australian Shepherd, Remi.
In Addition to the RVBlogger team, Terri has written for RV Life and RV Camping Magazine and is always excited to talk about her passion for RVing and her knowledge and experience in work camping.
Writing is Terri’s passion, but she also loves hiking, kayaking, walking her dogs, and anything she can do outdoors.
They originate from the Midwest but plan to enjoy the West for a few years, wintering in Arizona and summering wherever the road may lead.
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Best Backpacking in Colorado: 14 Scenic Trips Worth Exploring
photo by Evan Wise
Are you looking for the best backpacking in Colorado ? Not only is Colorado home to some of the most famous backpacking trails in the world, but there are 14 scenic trips in particular that make it truly worth exploring.
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with details about these trails and essential information on how to best prepare for a backpacking trip in one of America’s top destinations for backpacking and wildnerness exploration.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just beginning your journey into backpacking, this article will help guide you along Colorado’s fantastic landscape and breathtaking views.
Key Takeaways
- Colorado is home to some of the most famous backpacking trails in the world and has 14 scenic trips worth exploring.
- Popular Colorado backpacking trails include the iconic Colorado Trail , Continental Divide Trail , Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness , Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop , Lost Creek Wilderness Loop and Devil’s Thumb To King Lake Loop.
- Beginner friendly routes include Early Season Backpacking in Lost Creek Wildlife Area ; Mohawk Lakes near Breckenridge; and Beginner Route Near Fairplay and are a great way for novices to explore breathtaking wilderness areas with lesser technical difficulties.
- Some of the advanced backpacking trips in Colorado include the Aspen’s Four Passes Loop , the Colorado Trail’s highest thru-hike in America, Lone Eagle Peak , and Wildflowers from Crested Butte to Aspen .
Colorado’s Best Backpacking Trails
From the iconic Colorado Trail and Continental Divide to Devil’s Thumb Loop and Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness , there are numerous backpacking trails offering a wide variety of terrain for experienced backpackers.
![Best Backpacking in Colorado: 14 Scenic Trips Worth Exploring 2 Best Backpacking in Colorado](https://fairtradefinder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/photo-by-Caleb-Jack.jpeg)
photo by Caleb Jack
Colorado Trail
- Length: 500 miles (804.67 km) from Denver to Durango.
- Difficulty Level: Difficult, requiring multi-day hikes across rocky terrain with steep ups and downs.
👉 The Colorado Trail is one of the state’s most iconic backpacking trail s and it offers an incredible range of outdoors experiences. Spanning nearly 500 miles from Denver to Durango, it passes through six national forests and wilderness areas including Rocky Mountain National Park.
It is a difficult trail requiring multi-day hikes on rocky terrain with plenty of steep ups and downs, but the rewards are countless stunning views. Along its path are postcard-perfect scenes like Hang Lake, Treasure Fall Trails in San Juan Mountains, Tenmile Range Peaks’ view from Copper Mountain Ski resort to Breckenridge Peak 12 & 13 near Frisco.
Popular destinations include Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness where backpackers can explore scenic mountains by choosing 4 Pass Loop or Blue lakes Trail; Crater Lake in Indian Peaks Wilderness; Lost Creek Wilderness Loop offering gorgeous wildflowers and sweeping vistas over Devil’s Thumb to King Lake loop trail; Maroon Bells Four pass Loop overlooking peaks that soar above 14,000 feet are among many of the must see spots along this amazing route.
![Best Backpacking in Colorado: 14 Scenic Trips Worth Exploring 3 Continental Divide Trail](https://fairtradefinder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/photo-by-Taylor-Turtle.jpeg)
photo by Taylor Turtle
Continental Divide Trail
- Length: The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) spans over 3,100 miles (4,989.23 km) along the Rocky Mountains, connecting five U.S. states: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
- Difficulty Level: Extremely challenging, typically taking 5 months to hike from start to finish on foot.
👉 The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is one of the most challenging long-distance hiking trails in the United States, spanning over 3,100 miles along the Rocky Mountains and connecting five U.S. states: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico .
The CDT passes through alpine tundra areas in Colorado such as South San Juan Wilderness area, Weminuche Wilderness area and La Garita Wilderness area offering spectacular views of rugged peaks and meadows carpeted with wildflowers. It typically takes 5 months to hike from start to finish on foot.
Hikers on this iconic trail have several options for experiencing it – from multi-day backpacking trips to scenic road trips; allowing you time for day hikes or shorter section hikes.
![Best Backpacking in Colorado: 14 Scenic Trips Worth Exploring 4 Weminuche Wilderness](https://fairtradefinder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/photo-by-John-Ward.jpeg)
photo by John Ward
Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness
- Length: 500 miles (805 kilometers)
- Difficulty Level: Difficult, requiring several days
👉 The Chicago Basin Trail in Weminuche Wilderness is one of the best backpacking destination s in Colorado. Located in the rugged heart of the San Juan Mountains, this area is surrounded by 14,000 ft peaks and offers a variety of incredible trekking opportunities.
The basin can be accessed via Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and has been popular with backpackers for years as it provides remote hiking experiences through miles of trails in its wilderness area.
Not only is the area perfect for multi-day trips, but it’s also home to four beautiful 14ers – mountain peaks with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) – at Mt Eolus, Windom Peak, Sunlight Peak and several others – making for some spectacular climbing routes too!
Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop
- Distance: Approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers)
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
👉 The Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is considered one of the best backpacking trails in Colorado, offering trekskers a challenging and rewarding adventure .
Sitting at 12,000 feet in elevation and spanning 28 miles long over four days and three nights , this loop hike takes adventurers into some of the most breathtaking scenery Colorado has to offer.
Starting from the Maroon Bells scenic area it goes through Trail Rider Pass with stunning views of Snowmass Lake before ending up back where hikers started. Along the way, they’ll traverse majestic alpine meadows while making their way across all five biomes found in Colorado: Shrubland/Forest, Foothills, Alpine Tundra/Rocky Mountain Boreal Forest Valleys/Great Plains Grasslands.
The trail offers unique terrain features like shale slides and swamps as well as amazing seasonal wildflowers for color along its journey.
![Best Backpacking in Colorado: 14 Scenic Trips Worth Exploring 5 Lost Creek Wilderness Loop](https://fairtradefinder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/photo-by-Thomas-Morse.jpeg)
photo by Thomas Morse
Lost Creek Wilderness Loop
- Distance: Approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
👉 The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is a stunning backpacking trail located in the heart of Colorado. This 28-mile loop loop is considered difficult with its varying landscapes and views . It winds through Hankins Pass, Lake Park Trail, and McCurdy Park Trail with spectacular tree-lined mountain parks, granite domes and arches ; this journey takes an average of 13 hours and 40 minutes to complete.
When you’re traveling along these wilderness paths, make sure to keep your eyes open for wild animals like black bears, bighorn sheep deer or elks on the way! An additional enticement for swimmers are various lakes built over time which have been reserves as campsites along the way – sweet relief after trekking 187 square miles within wilderness area at about 50 miles from both Denver & Colorado Springs!
Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop
- Length: 14.75 miles (23.7 kilometers)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
👉 Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop winds through breathtaking forests and alpine meadows in Indian Peaks Wilderness , located north of Boulder, Colorado.
Hikers can enjoy stunning mountain views, cascading streams and wildflowers beginning from the trailhead at Devil’s Thumb Lake – one of the popular destination points on the loop. As you continue along this challenging trail, trekking up steep sections that offer unparalleled sights of Rocky Mountains – with Lone Eagle Peak standing tall among them – hikers will make their way towards connecting routes such as High Lonesome Trail leading to King Lake before returning back along same route to Devil’s Thumb Lake for a memorable journey.
Not only does it present an opportunity to explore the fascinating wilderness region but also offers a chance to appreciate its diverse wildlife and flora while walking amongst mesmerizing beauty that surrounds it all yearlong!
Crater Lake in Indian Peaks Wilderness
👉 The Crater Lake route is located in Grand County, and offers spectacular views of Colorado’s majestic mountains and wild landscapes on a challenging 17-mile round trip hike up to an incredible 2,298 feet in elevation gain.
With its wild setting , Crater Lake provides backpackers with unforgettable mountain vistas unparalleled by other hiking destinations. Along the way campers can take in pristine alpine lakes surrounded by lush wilderness areas that create truly breathtaking scenes.
For those seeking even more adventure without traveling far from Crater Lake, other hikes including Monarch Lake to Crater Lake and Lone Eagle Peak provide added challenge while still providing stunning backcountry experiences found within the Indian Peaks Wilderness .
![Best Backpacking in Colorado: 14 Scenic Trips Worth Exploring 6 Zirkel Circle](https://fairtradefinder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/photo-by-Matthew-Hernandez.jpeg)
photo by Matthew Hernandez
Zirkel Circle
- Distance: Approximately 11 miles (17.7 kilometers)
👉 The Zirkel Circle Trail near Steamboat Springs is an 11-mile loop hike takes you through the stunning Zirkel Wilderness , an area of 159,935 acres managed by the U.S. Forest Service and traversing across two different trails – Gilpin Lake and Gold Creek Lake Trails .
It is popular among both beginner backpackers and experienced hikers alike due its challenge yet manageable nature as it allows them to take in all the spectacular landscape en route like wildflowers, rugged peaks, expansive meadows, scenic forests and alpine lakes – absolutely perfect for a memorable Colorado backpacking experience!
Beginner-Friendly Backpacking Routes in Colorado
Entry level backpacking trails offer hikers of all levels the opportunity to discover the beautiful wilderness areas in Colorado, including Early Season Backpacking in the Lost Creek Wilderness, Mohawk Lakes near Breckenridge, and a beginner-friendly route at Fairplay.
Early Season Backpacking in the Lost Creek Wilderness
Lost Creek Wilderness in Colorado is a popular destination for early season backpacking, offering beginner-friendly trails , stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Lost Creek Wilderness is often the first area to open for backpacking in the Colorado high country and the last to close, making it an attractive choice for hikers looking to hit the trail as soon as possible.
Popular destinations within Lost Creek Wilderness include Ute Peak Trailhead, Hessie Trailhead and Goose Creek Trailhead. Wildflower displays dominate during springtime when mountain creeks are rushing down its bountiful valleys, while its expansive aspen forests provide ample space late summer long into autumn.
The 28 mile long Lost Creek Wilderness Loop will take one through impressive granite formations with towering peaks , alpine lakes and above treeline views . Additionally experienced backpackers can opt for either short duration hikes or tougher multiple day challenges such as scaling Lone Eagle Peak or tackling 14ers in Chicago Basin – there’s something here for every type of backpacker!
For those just getting into backpacking, some great introduction trails are the Hessie Trail including trekking up —> to summit near Death Pass before heading over toward Indigo Lake where you can pitch camp under millions of stars, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Mohawk Lakes Trail near Breckenridge
👉 Offering stunning mountain views , two beautiful alpine lakes, a waterfall , and some exciting mining ruins for exploration, the Mohawk Lakes backpacking trail near Breckenridge is one of Colorado’s best beginner-friendly hikes.
Located 3.3 miles from downtown Breckenridge, this hike leads through varied terrain including open meadows and dense forests before reaching the awe-inspiring two lakes: Upper Mohawk Lake at a higher elevation than Lower Mohawk lake.
The trailhead for start of the trip can be easily accessed via Village Road in Breckenridge with additional options for lodging nearby. The child-friendly hike requires some scrambling at points but rewards trekkers with picturesque waterfalls and old mining ruins along its route to Wildflower Heaven on Earth!
Buffalo Peaks Loop , Fairplay
- Length: 7 miles (11 kilometers)
Located just south of Fairplay, the Buffalo Peaks Loop is one of Colorado’s most enjoyable and scenic routes for beginner backpackers . This high-alpine loop offers views of two peaks in the Mosquito Range and several alpine lakes and meadows.
It’s a great spot to gain experience without having to commit to a huge distance or difficult elevation changes since the trail can be finished in less than a day with just over 1,500 feet in total elevation change.
With its peaceful atmosphere, diverse landscape, and abundance of wildflowers–Buffalo Peaks Loop is ideal for those starting out as backpackers who want more from their adventure than simply getting all your gear set up!
Along this route, you’ll get sweeping vistas of high mountains covered by evergreens forests while also enjoying an abundance of wildlife such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, or even moose roaming through the area.
Moderate Backpacking Trails in Colorado
Intermediate level hiking offer a great balance of challenge and potential for adventure, with routes such as the Backpacking to Lone Eagle Peak , Wildflowers from Crested Butte to Aspen , Colorado 14ers in the Chicago Basin , and Willow Lakes in the Gore Range.
Backpacking to Lone Eagle Peak
- Length: 14.8 miles (23.8 kilometers)
Located in Colorado’s Indian Peaks, Lone Eagle Peak is known for its mix of beauty and challenging backpacking trails . This hike to the summit has an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet and involves a strenuous climb with a full pack.
While hiking this trail, you will cross into 17 different permit zones, as per quota limit within the wilderness which offers some of best backcountry hiking opportunities across Colorado state.
The breathtaking sights along the way include waterfalls (like Cascade Falls ) and iconic peaks like Lone Eagle Cirque where hikers take can take once in a lifetime photos of landscapes along their journey.
Crested Butte to Aspen
From early spring to late summer, Crested Butte to Aspen provides nature enthusiasts with an array of vibrant and colorful wildflowers . The mountainous valleys between Crested Butte and Aspen are carpeted in a myriad of blues, purples, pinks and yellows.
Commonly seen species include the Colorado Columbine, Indian Paintbrush, Avalanche Lilies, Fireweed and Blazing Stars. One especially unique species is the Colorado state flower – the Aspen Sunflower – which blooms around August in some years providing hikers with fields of golden petals that stretch as far as the eye can see.
All these dazzling flowers bring life to this region of Colorado’s wilderness; creating stunning landscapes throughout every season sure to make any hiker’s journey unforgettable!
Backpacking Colorado 14ers in the Chicago Basin
- Length: 21-38 miles (33.80 – 61.26 kilometers)
The Chicago Basin in Colorado is one of the most popular backpacking destinations offering stunning views , challenging trails and the opportunity to climb three 14ers – Mount Eolus, Sunlight Peak and Windom Peak – in one amazing trip.
This strenuous hike totals has an elevation gain of approximately 8,000 ft (2,438 m) . Due to its difficulty level, this trek is often listed among the best backpacking routes in Colorado for experienced hikers looking for a remote wilderness experience .
From wildflowers to breathtaking views and high altitude forests, there’s something magical about hiking these 14ers that captivates outdoor enthusiasts from all around the world. With proper preparation including obtaining permits and mapping out your route ahead of time you’ll be sure set out on a safe adventure worthy of bragging rights!
Backpacking Willow Lakes in the Gore Range
Offering a challenging mix of steep inclines , rugged trails and stunning views , the trek to Willow Lakes is a must-visit destination for backpacking enthusiasts in the Summit County area.
The area is known for its abundant wildflowers , providing hikers with an unforgettable experience when seeking out scenic mountain beauty. As you make your way along the Gore Range Trail between Boulder Lakes and the split to Willow Lakes expect some hot and dusty sections which will test anyone’s stamina before they reach their final destination.
For those who survive these inclines, Upper Willow Lake awaits along with Salmon Lake both of which sit beautifully amongst Eagles Nest Wilderness famed jagged mountains as well as blooming alpine meadows dotting landscape on all sides – perfect for experienced adventurers seeking intense physical exercise tinged with awe inspiring sights!
Challenging Backpacking Trails in Colorado
Advanced backpacking trails in Colorado include Aspen’s Four Passes Loop, the Colorado Trail’s highest thru-hike in America, Lone Eagle Peak, and Wildflowers from Crested Butte to Aspen.
Backpacking Gore Lake, the Best Alpine Lake in Colorado
- Length: 13 miles (20.92 kilometers)
Located in the Gore Range of Vail, Colorado , Gore Lake is considered to be one of the best alpine lakes in the entire state for backpacking. This trail offers an exciting and challenging experience that winds through aspen groves, meadows filled with wildflowers, and stands of pine trees.
Along this path lies a stunning lake whose sandy shore resembles that of a beach giving it its nickname ‘Sandbeach Lake’. Backpacker’s will find breathtaking landscapes along their route while exploring the beauty of nature situated atop 12 415 feet above sea level.
This incredible destination also provides convenient access to beautiful alpine lakes near Vail making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned backpackers alike looking for easy or difficult treks around majestic mountain ranges amidst lush green terrain secluded by crystal clear streams cascading into shimmering blue waters offering angling opportunities accompanied by mesmerizing views fit to steal your breath away time and time again!
Aspen’s Four Passes Loop
- Distance: Approximately 26 miles (41.8 kilometers)
This loop is a renowned 26 mile (42 km) backpacking route located in the Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness of Colorado. It’s an iconic multiday trip that takes approximately 3-4 days to complete, climbing over four 12,000+ ft passes and offering breathtaking views and stunning scenery throughout.
Hikers start at Aspen’s iconic Maroon Bells, known for its magnificent beauty, eventually making their way around the full loop before returning to the same starting point. The Four Pass Loop is immensely popular among backpackers, hikers and campers alike due to its immense natural beauty and international reputation as an authentic outdoor experience.
When finishing this challenging hike there are usually tears of joy from those completing it – displaying how emotionally powerful of a journey this loop truly is! The trail offers diverse terrains including high alpine lakes, wildflower meadows and dense forests with plenty opportunities to spot elk or deer along the way.
The Colorado Trail: The Highest Thru-Hike in America
Hikers from all over the world flock to Colorado to experience its spectacularly rugged terrain and breathtaking natural views – but no backpacking trip would be complete without treading a section of The Colorado Trail.
Stretching 486 miles along some of America’s highest – and most challenging – mountainous trails, this thru-hike is considered by many dedicated hikers as one of their ultimate bucket list experiences.
From Denver to Durango , gapless single track provides an unparalleled journey through diverse terrain during which hikers can take in serene meadows , babbling brooks such as Jefferson Creek at 10,000 feet elevation and rugged Gore Lake in the Gore Range alpine lake.
Whether taken on for part or all of it’s length — prepare for brisk weather that changes frequently so suitable clothing needs to meet warm Summer days and chilly nights alike.
Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail , the Best Backpacking Route in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is considered by many to be one of the best backpacking destinations in the state of Colorado. The Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge trail is arguably its most popular, combining challenging terrain , jaw-dropping views and unforgettable alpine scenery .
This eight-mile roundtrip route begins with a steep ascent through wooded pine forests before winding up at the awe-inspiring Sky Pond lake. From here, trekkers can take in magnificent views of nearby mountains and other landmarks like Hallet Peak, Black Lake and Taylor Peak as they continue their journey around the loop.
Trekking along such a scenic route definitely demands a moderate level of fitness as it involves climbing large rock steps and traversing numerous switchbacks with some sections that are even quite exposed have been known to cause vertigo in novice hikers – so safety should always remain top priority during your adventure here!
Those looking for an easier experience may prefer exploring part of the Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail , which meanders through open meadows full of wildflowers amidst staggering mountain peaks just beyond reach.
Tips for Backpacking in Colorado
Staying safe and prepared on the trails is essential for a successful backpacking journey in Colorado – read on to discover more!
Prepare for changing weather conditions
Colorado is well-known for its unpredictable weather and rapid changes in climate. Backpackers should be aware of the ever-changing weather patterns of Colorado, especially when they are traveling higher elevations and further away from civilization.
Dressing in layers is key to preparedness as temperatures can vary greatly even over a few hours. It’s also essential to keep an eye out for storm clouds coming up from the west, which are common during summer afternoons.
Before any backpacking trip it’s crucial to double check the weather forecast as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations or deeper parts of Colorado’s wilderness areas. Expect variations in temperature, precipitation, wind speed and direction throughout your journey – thunderstorms, lightning strikes, snowfall and hail all occur on occasion along trails like The Colorado Trail at higher altitudes so be sure you’re carrying sturdy shelter if there is a chance of inclement weather.
Researching historical data for the area you plan on visiting may help provide insight into expected temperature swings as well; for instance Rocky Mountain National Park often experiences bursts of cold air arriving suddenly from Canada with accompanying wintry mix that can thicken quickly making snowshoeing necessary even in mid-summer months.
Pack lightweight and versatile gear
Packing the right gear and clothing for backpacking in Colorado is essential to ensure a rewarding trip. Lightweight and versatile pieces like convertible hiking pants , customizable jackets , and other multifunctional apparel can help minimize weight while accommodating changing conditions on the trail.
Additionally, having lightweight items that offer dual purpose—like an insulated jacket also serving as a quilt—can save space without compromising comfort or convenience. Backpackers should stick to technical fabrics that are lightweight yet durable enough; backpackers should opt for materials such as nylon or ripstop construction which provide needed durability against abrasion, water resistance, temperatures fluctuations, etc., all of which occurs naturally in Colorado’s diverse backcountry terrain .
By packing lightweight and versatile gear tailored to suit outdoor environments like those found in Colorado’s wilderness areas, backpackers have greater confidence and increased chances of succeeding on lasting adventures through scenic trails within the Centennial State.
Carry sufficient water and food
When venturing into the backcountry of Colorado, it is essential to bring enough water and food to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the trip. Dehydration is a serious risk in high-altitude environments, while inadequate nutrition can lead to exhausted energy levels or even hypothermia during colder months .
Local experts advocate carrying ample amounts of water as well as non perishable items such as grains, nuts, dried/canned fruits, jerky for adequate sustenance when hiking in Colorado.
It’s important to calculate how much each person needs per day and plan accordingly before setting off on your journey. Even short hikes should involve bringing more than one liter of water plus an extra snack just in case!
Follow Leave No Trace principles
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics provides seven principles that offer a framework for minimal impact practices for outdoor enthusiasts such as backpackers. These principles are essential to ensure the preservation of Colorado’s natural places and their beauty.
By preparing ahead, following wildlife regulations, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting other visitors’ experiences, disposing of waste properly and leaving natural artwork undisturbed we can promote responsible outdoor behavior in Colorado.
Following the Leave No Trace Principles is also important to reduce human-related environmental damage by encouraging travelers to be mindful of how they travel through landscapes so as not cause any harm or disruption.
Essential Information for Colorado Backpacking
It’s important to know the season, necessary permits and safety considerations before planning a backpacking trip in Colorado.
Backpacking season in Colorado
can be variable due to the weather, but typically runs from late May/early June through mid-September. The best time for backpacking in Colorado is during the summer months when days are longer and temperatures are warmer.
However, storms and afternoon thunderstorms are a real hazard so backpackers need to plan accordingly and prepare for changing conditions throughout their trip. The elevation of areas also has an impact on the temperature changes; higher altitudes tend to be colder than lower elevations which makes it important to bring extra layers of clothing regardless of the season.
Rainy or snowy weather may occur at any time so hikers must always carry rain gear as well as warm attire such as waterproof jackets, fleece tops, insulated pants, gloves and hats.
Preparing for your trip
It’s essential to prepare thoroughly before embarking on a backpacking trip in Colorado. Here are some important steps to consider:
- Research to select an appropriate route and destination for your skills, experience and interests.
- Ensure you have the right backpack that fits comfortably with everything you need for the duration of your trip.
- Always carry the “Ten Essentials” when hiking in Colorado (map, navigation device, first-aid supplies, knife/tool, flashlight/headlamp, extra clothing layers and waterproofs, firestarter kit, food & snacks plus 1+ liter water capacity).
- Pack lightweight and versatile gear including basic items like tent or tarp shelter; sleeping bag & pad; cooking system; eating utensils like plates/bowls and cup or mug; hygiene items such as toothbrush & biodegradable soap etcetera..
- Make sure all necessary permits are obtained prior to departure if required by area regulations for your selected location( camping permits etc.).
- Seek advice from local experts who can recommend good hikes depending upon the season conditions of specific areas in Colorado at given time period7Practice safe backpacking techniques such as bearing navigational knowledge ;carrying bear spray if needed preparedfor potential hazards & wildlife encounters travelling slowlyin stairs while venturing uphills wearing sturdy bootswith traction keepinggroup size small consideringwhere one should store their food appropriately 8 And always tell someone aboutone’s plansbefore going out on abackpacker trail !
Safety considerations and precautions
While outdoor activities such as backpacking in Colorado come with inherent risks, there are precautions you can take to stay safe.
- Make sure you are well aware of COVID-19 guidelines before heading out on a backpacking trip.
- Maintain physical distance from other hikers, wear necessary personal protective equipment and carry extra supplies to mitigate virus transmission.
- Take safety measures against accidental encounters with wildlife while hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park or the wilderness areas of Colorado.
- Make sure your pack includes essential gear – a map, compass, first-aid kit, fire starter, medications, insulated blanket or jacket, extra food and water.
- Follow the safety tips outlined by The Colorado Trail for a stress-free journey across America’s highest thru hike trail system.
- When camping or hiking near bear country , double-bag all food items and keep them away from your tent or vehicle at night. Avoid approaching bears at any cost, feeding them, or trying to get too close for pictures—remember they’re wild animals!
Required permits and regulations
When backpacking or day-hiking in Colorado, make sure you’re familiar with the requirements for permits and regulations . Depending on which natural area you will be visiting, you may need one or more in order to access the area or camp overnight.
Popular permit areas include wilderness areas like Rocky Mountain National Park and Indian Peaks Wilderness ; some trails are subject to special regulation and require the purchase of a backcountry permit before accessing them.
State Wildlife Areas also have their own set of rules that must be followed when visiting – notably requiring permits from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Other locations such as state parks require passes for access, these can range from daily passes up to annual park admission fees depending on your needs.
Backpacking in Colorado is a particularly unforgettable experience that offers stunning landscapes , diverse terrains , and unique opportunities for exploration . With hundreds of beautiful trails across the state from beginner-friendly routes to Alpine passes adventure seekers can find the perfect backpacking route.
Short day hikes or multi-day adventures offer hikers unparalleled access to natural beauty whether through rocky peaks, alpine lakes, or verdant valleys – all with breathtaking views.
Famous trail like the Continental Trail Divide Loop and Maroon Bells/Four Pass Loop are just some of the must^visit experiences for backpackers visiting the Rocky Mountains while novice adventurers have plenty to take on as well at locations like Lost Creek Wilderness loop or Mohawk Lakes Backpacking near Breckenridge.
With an abundance of wildlife sightings and vast open areas within many national parks in Colorado it remains one of America’s premier backpacking destinations worth exploring again and again.
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3 Epic Colorado Backpacking Trips
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Colorado’s piece of the Rocky Mountains is arguably the most iconic chunk of America’s most famous mountain range — for good reason. Because of Colorado’s lower latitude (compared with Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho), treeline — the line at which trees stop growing — is at a pretty high elevation of approximately 11,000 feet. And luckily, Colorado boasts the greatest number of 14,000′ peaks and 13,000′ peaks in the United States. So, you’ll find an abundance of alpine terrain to backpack in and explore in this wonderful state.
Below treeline, the Colorado Rockies are heavily timbered with pine, spruce, fir, and aspen forests. After forest fires rip through conifers forests, aspen trees fill in the charred land. These groves are truly spectacular, often with lush green grass, sagebrush, and wildflowers carpeting the understory.
Near treeline, the only trees growing are spruce and fir, and they become stunted and gnarled by the intense weather at the higher elevations. The official name for these stunted trees is Krummholz , which is German for “crooked timber.”
Above the treeline, known as the “alpine zone,” there is nothing but grass, bushes, and wildflowers. This ecosystem is arguably the most thrilling to explore in the state of Colorado. In the alpine zone, you will find arctic tundra, fragile plants, stunning alpine lakes, possibly a glacier, and unique wildlife like Pika and Marmots.
Below are our favorite backpacking trips in Colorado. Enjoy!
Award Winning Colorado Backpacking Tours
1. Maroon Bells Backpacking Trip
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://wildlandtrekking.com/content/uploads/2019/05/1.-Maroon-Bells-Backpacking-Trip.jpg)
The Maroon Bells are Colorado’s most photographed cluster of mountain peaks because it looks as if created by computer imaging for a Hollywood blockbuster.
“The Bells” are part of the Elk Mountains, which straddle the border of Gunnison and Pitkin counties in west-central Colorado. They are the hallmark of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness in the White River National Forest.
Most often captured from the shores of Maroon Lake, both peaks reach higher than 14,000 feet in elevation: Maroon Peak is 14,163 feet (4317 m) and North Maroon Peak is 14,019 feet (4273 m).
Geologically, the Maroon Bells differ significantly from much of the Rocky Mountain range, which is primarily composed of granite and limestone. In contrast, the Maroon Bells are composed of a unique type of mudstone that has solidified into solid rock over hundreds of thousands of millennia. This unstable rock breaks easily, leading to numerous climbing accidents over the years. However, this classic Maroon Bells backpacking route does not travel through dangerous mudstone terrain.
Trip Overview
The backpacking route highlighted here tackles four mountain passes and takes you by waterfalls, breathtaking views, wildflower-covered meadows and fantastic views of the Maroon Bells.
You’ll begin at Maroon Lake, which is easy to access and boasts incredible views of the Bells. Your trail leaves right from the lake and creates a loop back to the lake, so you don’t need to arrange any shuttles.
Getting There
The trailhead is at Maroon Lake, which is easy to find, but hard to reach. The road is open from mid June through September, but only before 8:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m. Between those hours, visitors are required to take a shuttle from Aspen Highlands Ski Area.
To reach Maroon Lake, first get to the popular ski town of Aspen, CO. Then, follow these instructions:
Driving Yourself from Aspen: Either before 8 am or after 5 pm from the west side of Aspen, head southwest on Maroon Creek Road. Drive approximately 10 miles, past the Maroon Bells Welcome Center to Maroon Lake. There is a $10 fee for driving this road.
Shuttle: Between 8 am and 5 pm, drive to Aspen Highlands Ski Area to catch the shuttle. You’ll need to pay a shuttle fee, which increases each year. If you are already in Aspen and do not have a vehicle, or the parking lot at Aspen Highlands is full, you can catch a free bus from Aspen to Aspen Highlands. Go to Ruby Park in Aspen and catch the Castle/Maroon bus to Aspen Highlands.
Recommended Day by Day Itinerary
For the best chance of avoiding the shuttle and getting a parking space, be at the trailhead around 6 am. From the trailhead, begin on the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail. After a short hike, you’ll come to the West Maroon Trail heading off to the left. Take this trail.
After a couple of miles, you’ll arrive at Crater Lake, a majestic mountain lake with amazing views. Take a break and soak up the views, then continue on the West Maroon Trail. After several more hours and a steep ascent, you’ll arrive at the first pass, West Maroon Pass (12,480 feet.) The views from up here are phenomenal! Take them in, then descend for another 1/2 mile and set up camp in the meadows below the pass.
Today you’ll start right up to the next mountain pass, Frigid Air Pass (12,415 feet). After the pass, continue on past multiple amazing waterfalls and several creek crossings. The trail climbs up again and then levels off near a small lake and creek.
Today you’ll climb the third pass, Trail Rider Pass (12,400 feet.) This one is not as difficult as the first two days of hiking, but the views are every bit as great! Descend from the pass to Snowmass Lake, which is a great spot for lunch. Continue on and set up camp near a pristine creek a couple of miles past the lake.
After a couple of miles, you’ll come to the final mountain pass, Buckskin (12,462 feet). Soak up the last high point views and then descend and continue 4-5 miles to the trailhead where your car is parked.
There are no permits required to do a backpacking trip in this area.
When to do this Trip
This trip is best done in July and August. June is feasible but the passes may have significant snow in places, and it can be muddy. September can be wonderful, with cold nights and possible snow toward the end of the month.
The campsites for this trip are not designated. However, we strongly recommend camping in places that have been used before to reduce impact on well-vegetated areas.
Backpack Colorado with a Guide
Guided Colorado backpacking trips are available, and are a stress-free, exciting way to explore the amazing Colorado Rockies. The guide company handles permits, gear, transportation, meals, and provides a professional guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Read more about Colorado hiking guided trips…
All-inclusive Colorado Backpacking Adventures
2. Mummy Range Backpacking Trip
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://wildlandtrekking.com/content/uploads/2019/05/2.-Mummy-Range-Backpacking-Trip.jpg)
This trip is in the wildest part of Rocky Mountain National Park – the Mummy Range along the northern boundary of the Park. This region is much more lightly visited than the very popular Bear Lake, Glacier Gorge, and Wild Basin sections of the Park. Given its solitude and native abundances, this region is a haven for the park’s large ungulates — namely, its thriving elk herds and the most prominent among them, the majestic (but not always subtle) moose.
This is one of the more authentic and remote high-mountain Rocky Mountain backpacking environments one can experience in the lower 48. You’ll quickly forget you’re within the borders of a national park when you encounter the multiple peaks, craggy trails, and picture-book scenery brought to vibrant, heart-beating life with each mile you backpack.
While this trip starts in a mellow valley, it eventually ventures through scrubby tundra fields, traverses 11,000′ passes, breezy meadows, crusty, sun-cupped snowfields, and the shores of glassy alpine lakes. More than that, it tops out above 12,000′ on a day of off-trail navigation to tag multiple peaks. Camps will come with views hard to describe (even with the lens of a smartphone), thin air, and high-fives.
From Denver: Take Route 36 north toward Rocky Mountain National Park, going through Boulder, Lyons, and Estes Park. Stay on Route 34 west in Estes Park, until it splits south. Take Endovalley Road (closed in winter) then Old Fall River Rd. to the Chapin Pass trailhead.
This relatively mild day is a warm-up for your legs and lungs, but your senses are put to the test. Chapin Creek’s watershed provides an incredible, verdant landscape to frame the massive and remote Mummy peaks that await you on day two. Expect to venture along the Cache La Poudre River, and look for campsites near Hague Creek. You’ll probably walk about six miles, and lose 500 feet or so of elevation.
While short, expect to get a workout as you venture deep into what makes this hike so picture-perfect. On the mainly forested trail, hikers will work their way up and down through heavy, green, and carpeted northern Colorado forest. As you reach treeline, search for a few of the available backcountry sites to establish camp for the night. If you’re feeling up to it, add another 6-mile round-trip jaunt to Mirror Lake. The total hike to camp is 2.5 miles, 1,000 feet up and down . You’ll be around 8.5 miles total if you add the side-hike.
Time to get after it. This is the big day and likely the one you’ll remember. Some hikers consider starting before first light. That may not be necessary, but you should get an early start to compensate for the elevation and afternoon storms that can be dangerous if you’re exposed above treeline. Bring your map and compass because you’ll need to navigate off-trail to reach Skull Point and Sugarloaf Mountain, both over 12,000 from sea level. However, the first few miles are on the trail and will take you over Mummy Pass. Camp shortly after the junction with Stormy Creeks Trail. This is a big day in terms of scenery, and you’ll work to earn it and the memories you’ll take back to the front country. This is about a 7-mile day with 1,250 feet of gain.
Hike on the now-downhill trail along the Thompson River toward Lost Falls. Consider a side-track up to Lost Lake, which is well worth your effort. Today’s hike may not include the big scenery of Day 3, but it’s pure Rocky Mountain outback, nonetheless. These backcountry days are exactly why you come to places like this. Find camp at one of the many established sites and set yourself up for a big, healthy dinner to prepare for your mild hike out on Day 5. Your day’s total hike is about 7 miles, all down hill for 1,000 feet.
Day 5 : You’ll experience smooth sailing but plenty to see over the bow on the way down the Thompson River valley. Riparian environment, forest, and mountain views are hardly worth ignoring even knowing this is your last day. Celebrate all that’s left and all that you took in. Point your boots at the Dunraven Trailhead and, once there, take a load off, high-five your crew, and talk all about what you’ve accomplished. This is about a 5-mile day and a 1,500-foot loss.
Permits, Fees, and Reservation
Permits are required for backpacking trips in Rocky Mountain National Park. Permits are $30, you can find them on this website . In the busy season, permits can be reserved 60 days in advance, 30 days in advance from November 1 to April 30. You can pick them up at either the Beaver Meadows or Kawuneeche visitor centers .
Clearly, this is a trip best left for the mid-to-late summer and early fall, before the throes of winter once again embrace the park’s high elevation. The primary concern, especially for above-treeline off-trail travel, is afternoon lightning. Remember to be up, and back down, as early as possible during the hiking season. You can encounter snow year-round.
The campsites on this trip are largely backcountry: some are established, others are primitive. It’s critical for all hikers to use sites already made unless there is a severe emergency requiring an overnight. Night 1: Sites found the Cache La Poudre River’s junction with Hague Creek Night 2: Established backcountry sites near Mummy Pass Creek trail junction with Mirror Lake Trail Night 3: Sites found along Stormy Creeks Trail Night 4: A number of designated backcountry campsites are found further east on Stormy Creeks Trail
Hike the Mummy Range with a Guide
Guided Mummy Range backpacking trips are available, and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this trip. The tour company handles permits, gear, transportation, meals, and provides a professional guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Read more…
All Inclusive Backpacking Trips
3. Flat Tops Wilderness Backpack
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Landscape from high up in Rocky Mountains in the Flattops Wilderness Area of Colorado with man traversing along ridge on summer day with alpine lakes below and background. Stunning mountain view.](https://wildlandtrekking.com/content/uploads/2019/05/3.-Flat-Tops-Wilderness-Backpack.jpg)
The Flat Tops Wilderness is largely attributed to inspiring the 1964 Wilderness Act. It occupies more than 235,000 acres in both the White River and Routt national forests. A haven for true backcountry exploration, thanks to its countless alpine lakes and expansive valleys, the Flat Tops is a backpacker’s paradise. Known for solitude and wildlife, this mountainous domain is defined by its unique, varied geography, and hard-to-Instagram beauty. Expect old-growth forest, mirror-clear lakes, and night skies straight out of a science fiction movie. This area was protected in 1975 and is due north of Glenwood Springs, CO.
There are a number of routes to follow in the Flat Tops, but consider heading toward the 12,000+ Trappers Peak region from Trapper’s Lake and Shepherds Rim Campground, off of Route 8. Expect to experience a truly unique mountain environment in the Flat Tops, as the jagged authenticity of the Maroon Bells is replaced with sprawling high plateaus and lake-spotted valleys. Visit the Island Lakes district, defined by its far-reaching collection of alpine lakes and watersheds. The Wall Lake Trail will put into verdant valleys and creates an ideal set-up for a summit of Trappers. Overall, the trip gains and loses thousands of feet, explores lush creeksides, offers incredible backcountry fishing and wildlife viewing, and reveals a part of Colorado few people know is there.
From Denver: Head west on I-70 to the town of Wolcott, where you’ll pick up 131 North toward Yampa. Head west on the winding Route 8, then dip south on 8A/155 South/Trappers Lake Rd. to Trappers Lake. Shepherds Rim Campground sits on a loop near Crescent Lake.
From Glenwood Springs The fastest route is to head west on I-70 to Rifle, then go north on CO-13 North toward Meeker. There, you’ll catch 8, heading east to Trapper’s Lake Rd. Head south until the road ends and the campground signage becomes evident.
Day 1 : If starting in Denver, plan for a lengthy drive west, and consider a break for lunch at one of the many roadside opportunities western Colorado offers. Find a campground near Trappers Lake, get settled, and prepare for hitting the trail the next day. You’ll end the drive at just under 10,000 feet.
Day 2 : Time to get started. Leave from Trappers Outlet trailhead, journeying along the lake for a mile or so, then gain altitude out of the valley on Trappers Lake Trail. Once you’ve arrived at camp, settle down for the evening at over 11,000′ near the intersection with Island Lakes Trail (you’ll have gained 2,000 over 7 miles!) The views will not disappoint, and they show off the region’s incredible beauty.
Day 3 : Remain camped on this day, and spend your hours exploring the Island Lakes, a series of pocketed, snowmelt alpine lakes, streams, and rocky outcrops. Watch for wildlife exploring the area or try your luck fishing in one of the countless lakes (CO fishing licenses required.) After you’ve had your fill, head back to your tent for dinner and shuteye. You’ll gain and lose about 1,000 feet over 6.5 miles.
Day 4 : Take today to move camp and trek along the Wall Lake Trail through its giant meadows and near its crisp streams. It won’t take long to reach your camp on the shores of Wall Lake so settle in. Once rested, grab your essentials and attempt the summit of 12,002-foot Trappers Peak. You won’t want to come down, but you’ll need to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, sending you back to camp early. But what a day. This is about 5 miles and a loss/gain of 1,300′.
Day 5 : Staying north on the Wall Lake Trail, you’ll take in even more of what the Flat Tops are all about—big views, rich forests, and authentic Rocky Mountain environments. Heading back to the Trappers Lake trailhead will seem like that sad bus ride to school on the first day after the summer break—but boy, the pictures you’ll be able to share come “Show & Tell” day. It’s about 5 miles back to the trail, and a loss of 1,700′.
Permits and reservations
Private parties and individuals do not need permits to backpack in the Flat Tops Wilderness, but always view the National Forest website to confirm and learn of any closures.
When to hike
Mid- to late-summer and early fall are the ideal times to hike in the Flat Tops Wilderness. Be wary of heavy stream crossings and wetlands, and especially of summer thunderstorms if above treeline.
Night 1: Shepherd’s Rim campground Night 2: Established backcountry site near junction of Trappers Lake and Island Lakes trail Night 3: Same as night 2 Night 4 : Established site along shores of Wall Lake
Hike with a Guide
Guided Flat Tops Wilderness backpacking trips are available, and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this trip. The tour company handles permits, gear, transportation, meals, and provides a professional guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Read more…
As the world’s premier hiking and trekking company , Wildland believes in connecting people to fantastic environments in amazing ways. Grand Canyon National Park offers an array of incredible hiking and trekking experiences. Wildland Trekking provides 21 different multi-day hiking and backpacking adventures in the Canyon. Read more about our Colorado Hiking Trips .
To learn more about our guided backpacking trips and all of our award-winning hiking vacations , please visit our website or connect with one of our Adventure Consultants: 800-715-HIKE
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8 Colorado Backpacking Trips You Shouldn’t Miss
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Backpacker hiking down trail in a forested alpine landscape.](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1490968457-1.jpg)
This Colorado backpacking guide was brought to you by Gregory , the makers of backpacking packs that fit comfortably and fit all of your gear for your next backcountry adventure.
It’s impossible to think of Colorado without picturing the Rocky Mountains. The steep and stunning landscape of Colorado has brought skiing fanatics to its infamous slopes for decades. More recently, however, Colorado has become one of the most moved-to states in all of the country partly due to its year-round adventure access. One of the most holistic, soul-filling and challenging ways to experience this beautiful state is through backpacking.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Backpacker walking through the forests in the backcountry of Colorado,](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1490962088-1.jpg)
The summer and fall in Colorado offer particularly glorious views and conditions, so for those seeking to explore more of Colorado’s wilderness areas, we’ve identified some of our favorite backpacking trips.
Whether you call the Centennial State your backyard or you’re planning an adrenaline-filled vacation, these Colorado backpacking trips will keep you bright-eyed and challenge your athleticism. These eight trips vary in distance, difficulty and seasonality, so make sure you are prepared for your Colorado backpacking trip.
1. Conundrum Hot Springs
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Group of four backpackers hanging out in hot springs.](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/09/conundrum-hot-springs-dispersed-campgrounds_8c379661b6fe7bc2dbf6ccc1dafa8f8b-1.jpg)
Image from The Dyrt camper Anthony P.
Trailhead: Conundrum Creek Trailhead Distance: 16.7 miles Elevation Gain: 2,791 feet Route Type: Out and Back Season: June – October Permit Required?: Yes (year round)
This out-and-back trail has become wildly popular in the past few years and as a result, now requires a permit. Though popularity is a deterrent for some backpackers, backpacking to Conundrum Hot Springs is well worth the hype. Now that this year-round permit system is in place, solitude and peace have been restored to this gorgeous valley.
The 102-degree hot spring is the obvious highlight feature of this backpacking trail, but you’ll find plenty of beauty in the 8.5 miles to the springs. While climbing 2,791 feet, you’ll pass a myriad of wildflowers in July and shimmering, golden aspens in September and early October. You may even see moose, bears or marmot. Bear canisters are required for this trail as well.
The climb to the springs is difficult, so be prepared for a challenge and remember to pack light, and condense your items as much as possible. The Rockies are infamous for erratic weather, so be prepared for rain or snow depending on the time you go and pack warm layers for night time. There are three major creek crossings, two of which have bridges built for you and one that will require you to cross it. That said, there are plenty of water resources along the trail, but remember to be carrying at least two liters at any given time.
Once you reach the hot springs, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the steamy pool with your friends and make some new friends if you’re so inclined. This soaking pool is clothing optional, so be prepared to see those embracing nudity or trying it out for yourself. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the breathtaking valley below and enjoy the presence of the towering Cathedral, Conundrum, and Castle Peaks. There are 20 campsites with varying group sizes.
Post Hike: Try Hops Culture in Aspen for a beer and pizza or a juicy hamburger.
2. Four Pass Loop
Trailhead: Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead Distance: 27.1 miles Elevation Gain: 7,327 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: No Permit Required?: No
This Colorado backpacking trip is true to its name – it skirts over four high-elevation passes in 27 miles in the striking Maroon Bells Wilderness and Elk Mountains. This trail is a favorite among Colorado residents and is typically done as a three to four-day backpacking trip but can be completed in one day as a challenging trail run. This loop is particularly popular in the fall, as the aspens are innumerable and entrance hikers with trails lined in gold, red and orange hues. This is a more challenging route, and best for intermediate to advanced backpackers.
You will begin at the trailhead at Maroon Lake, which you can access via your own personal vehicle before 8am or after 5pm. If you want to access the trail during those hours, you’ll have to take a shuttle and pay a $10 entrance fee. If necessary, hikers can camp at West Maroon Portal before beginning the journey.
Along the journey, you will witness incredible alpine scenery as you climb four 12,000+ foot mountains, walk among oodles of wild flowers or fall foliage, depending on the season. Be prepared for challenging terrain and many uphill battles. The incredible scenery will keep you motivated, but be aware of your skill level and be prepared for altitude sickness if you are sensitive to high elevation hiking.
Post Hike: Grind in Glenwood Springs offers gourmet burgers for meat enthusiasts and vegan/vegetarians alike.
3. Zirkel Circle
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Landscape of mountains surrounding Gilpin Lake.](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1198932040-1.jpg)
Trailhead: Slavonia Trailhead Distance: 10.3 miles Elevation Gain: 2,463 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: June – September Permit Required?: No
Northern Colorado are still somewhat off the beaten path, so trails will likely greet you with more solitude and silence than backpacking trips in the Front Range of Colorado. This trail near Steamboat Springs, Colorado can be done in a day or done as a short, two-day backpacking trip. The Zirkel Circle is a favorite among Northern Coloradans and is only moderately trafficked. The highlight of this trail is easily Gilpin Lake, a shimmering lake surrounded by rugged mountains, a view that easily mimics alpine scenery of Switzerland. The lake is about half-way along the trail, making it an ideal place to camp. Hikers must camp at least ¼ mile away from the lake.
We recommend hiking counterclockwise. Gold Creek Lake is a great place to stop for lunch on the way to camp at Gilpin Lake. Additionally, hiking counterclockwise has a lower sustained grade. Along the trail you’ll encounter lakes and streams that are fantastic for fly fishing. You may also encounter black bears, so a bear canister is recommended, but not required.
Post Hike: Aurum in Steamboat Springs is great for fancy cocktail to treat yourself for all of the hard work.
4. Venable-Comanche Trail and Phantom Terrace
Trailhead: Alvarado Trailhead Distance: 12.3 miles Elevation Gain: 3,884 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: May – November Permit Required?: No
Located in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this Colorado backpacking trip is popular in fall as the trail winds through aspen groves that famously boast their shimmering golden leaves come September. Bring your fishing pole and fish in Venable Lakes or Comanche Lake. This trail offers sweeping views of The Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a rugged and narrow range in Southern Colorado.
You’ll begin at Venable Trail and have the option to camp at Alvarado Campground before hiking or go ahead and begin making your way. Make sure to look for open, flat areas where it looks like campers have camped before for best Leave No Trace practices. On the trail, you’ll skirt along the very narrow trail known as Phantom Terrace. Its spooky name originates from the trail being difficult to see and the seemingly steep drop off from the trail. But the trail is wider than it looks once you’re on it. Starting on the Venable Lake side of the loop (counterclockwise) will allow you to go down the Phantom Terrace, rather than making the hefty climb up.
Post Hike: Chappys Mountain View Bar & Grill in Westcliffe has mouth-watering burgers and steaks to enjoy the flavors of Colorado’s western heritage.
5. Baker Gulch to Bowen Gulch Lake
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Landscape panorama of Parika Lake during golden hour.](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1369287440-2.jpg)
Trailhead: Bowen/Baker Trailhead Distance: 19 miles Elevation Gain: 4,757 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: April – October Permit Required?: No
This dynamic, challenging and scenic Colorado backpacking trail is great for beginner backpackers interested in a higher-mileage backpacking trip. The trail begins in Rocky Mountain National Park , so you will have to pay the $20 entrance fee if you do not have a pass. You’ll drive along the tallest road in the U.S., the Trail Ridge Road, which offers incredible views of the Rocky Mountains by vehicle. Once at the trailhead, hikers have the opportunity to trek over a 13,000 foot mountain, brush up against the abundant, knee-high wildflowers, witness a moose mother and baby, and catch a fish for dinner.
Anyone interested in backpacking will enjoy this trail, but a fly fisherman will be particularly delighted by the casting opportunity on the trout-laden alpine lakes. Parika Lake and Bowen Lake offer some of the best early-season cutthroats of the season in the Never Summer Wilderness, so make sure to bring a lightweight rod and cook up a fresh-caught dinner.
Moose are another fauna that roam proudly and in large numbers in the Never Summer Wilderness. You will likely see a mother moose and her baby or a small herd of male moose. Be sure to be wary of their presence and follow moose safety protocol . Do not bring your pets on this trail, as they can cause moose to become aggressive.
A great place to camp or enjoy a bite to eat is Parika Lake, if you’re going counterclockwise. There are plenty of water resources along the way, so water should not be an issue.
Post Hike: Nepal’s Cafe in Estes Park is fantastic for authentic, delicious Nepalese food.
6. Silver Basin Loop
Trailhead: Horse Ranch Lake Trailhead Distance: 15 miles (with option to add 6 miles to Oh Be Joyful Pass) Elevation Gain: 3,677 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: July – September Permit Required?: No
If you are searching for a backpacking trip with endlessly panoramic views, the Silver Basin loop near Crested Butte is the Colorado backpacking trip for you. This trail is great for beginners, as it is rated moderate because it is relatively short as backpacking loops go, and the elevation gain is low grade. This trail is fantastic in the fall as it boasts Colorado’s famous aspens. Along the trail you’ll witness the Ruby Range, characterized by their deep shades of red. This range is composed of the Maroon Formation, giving it a red hue, similar to the Maroon Bells near Aspen.
You’ll have the option to add 6 round trip miles to your trip by climbing up to Oh-be-Joyful pass. If you don’t mind adding mileage to your trip, this detour is highly recommended. You will be greeted with incredible alpine scenery and panoramic views of a glacial valley and countless peaks along the Ruby Range.
After this pit stop, the trail becomes relatively easier. You will continue your last leg along the Dark Canyon Trail, which follows a creek for any water you’ll need on the last day. You’ll also experience the Devil’s Stairway which drops 1,200 feet in .75miles. After that, the trail continues at a relatively easy grade from 8,640 feet to 9,400 feet over 7 miles before returning to Horse Ranch Lake trailhead.
There are plenty of water resources along the trail, but water should be treated before drinking. Be cautious of afternoon thunderstorms in the summer months. And, as with any backpacking trip, make sure you bring along more than enough backpacking food and easy options for meals to go .
Post Hike: The Secret Stash in Crested Butte will leave you thinking about their pizza for weeks to come.
7. The Last 23 Miles of The Colorado Trail (Southbound)
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Snowcapped mountain above landscape of Little Molas Lake.](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/09/shutterstock_1455403865.jpg)
The San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado are arguably the most beautiful pocket of Colorado. Even Colorado residents don’t explore much of this range because it is hard to access, but that in turn helps keep it a remote wilderness area.
The 485-mile Colorado Trail epically ends in this gorgeous mountain range, and is argued to be some of the most beautiful sections of the trail. If you’re interested in the Colorado Trail, but don’t have a month to spend walking, this is a great Colorado backpacking trip to experience the last four sections of this stunning trail.
These sections of the Colorado trail are so beautiful because they are at or above timberline for most of the hike. The trail contours around monstrous peaks with and passes a line of stunning dark volcanic cliffs.
There are lots of water resources along this hike, but it should be treated. The hike is exposed to make sure to be wary of lightning.
8. Rawah Lakes Loop
Trailhead: West Branch Trailhead Distance: 23.2 miles Elevation Gain: 4,022 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: July-October Permit Required?: No
This Colorado backpacking trip is best completed in late summer or early fall, as there is typically a lot of snow until the late summer season. Summer offers emerald green mountains and pleasant temperatures. The fall permits trails lined with tall aspens in mass amounts in a fiery palette. The loop can be completed in 2-3 days with Upper camp lake, Rawah Lakes and Twin Crater Lakes being a great spot for lunch or camp depending on your route. Hikers can begin their journey from the parking lot and camp in well-used areas, or camp at Tunnel Campground before beginning the journey.
Post Hike: Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you probably know New Belgium Brewing Company makes some of the best beer in the U.S. Check out their employee-owned brewery and sip a brew on their lively patio.
This article about Colorado backpacking trips was brought to you by Gregory .
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Two people walking along creek bed in a forest](https://blog-assets.thedyrt.com/uploads/2019/04/GMP_S19_MiwokMaya_Lifestyle-6318-1.jpg)
Photo from Gregory Packs
The makers of the best hiking backpacks on the market.
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Emily Gallegos
Emily Gallegos is a travel-lover, backpacker and is generally curious about all this world has to offer. She grew up in the front range of Colorado where she fell in love with snowboarding, fishing and being outside as often as possible. She has studied Spanish in Spain and Argentina and has written for magazines in Boulder, CO such as Elevation Outdoors.
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![1 night backpacking trips colorado Colorado Backpacking Adventures](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/Highlands-Overnight-Adventures-Logo.png)
Learn how to backpack in the Colorado wilderness:
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/big-foot-icon-white.png)
Get Outdoors
Safely. confidently. guided..
![Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Camp Hale Valley Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Camp Hale Valley](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/camp-hale.jpg)
On your guided trip you will learn how to backpack into the Colorado wilderness, stay overnight and return with confidence.
All trips include a drink & cheese meet-and-greet a few days ahead of time, including a gear review of your essential backpacking equipment.
![title= 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/wine-and-cheese-transp-bg.png)
- Include a meet-up in Denver beforehand to coordinate and check gear
- Involve an overnight in the wilderness
- Are limited to a small number of backpackers
- May allow for exclusive groups
- Require some key personal gear
WHAT’S NOT COVERED
- Sherpa services
- Guaranteed bigfoot or UFO sightings
![Guided Backpacking Colorado Hot Pepper Guided Backpacking Colorado Hot Pepper](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/pepper.png)
On your trip you will learn how to backpack into the wilderness, stay overnight and return with confidence.
This includes hands-on instruction ahead of time on choosing solid gear, adopting the right approach to your adventure, and practicing the core skills needed to backpack safely in the Colorado wilderness.
- Include an overnight in the wilderness
- Are limited to a small number of hikers
- Require independent travel to the trailhead
WHAT IS NOT COVERED
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Guided Backpacking Colorado Hot Pepper](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/pepper.png)
Overnight Backpacking Adventures
High valley overnight, difficulty: easy, super fun, waterfalls distance: near trailhead (<1 mile) elevation gain: 603 ft. (183 m) elevation loss: 132 ft. (40 m) altitude avg: 9,835 ft. (2,998 m).
![bear-lake-san-isabel-guide-favorite-kids Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Night](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/bear-lake-san-isabel-guide-favorite-kids.jpg)
DIFFICULTY: DISTANCE: 1.62 miles (2.61 k) per day ELEVATION GAIN: 425 ft. (130 m) ELEVATION LOSS: 617 ft. (188 m) ALTITUDE AVG: 11,191 ft. (3,411 m)
![bear-lake-san-isabel-guide-favorite Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Night](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/bear-lake-san-isabel-guide-favorite.jpg)
DIFFICULTY: DISTANCE: 3.26 miles (5.25 k) per day ELEVATION GAIN: 1,526 ft. (465 m) ELEVATION LOSS: 546 ft. (166 m) ALTITUDE AVG: 10,839 ft. (3,304 m)
![Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Night Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Night](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/tent-at-night-stars-800x600-1.jpg)
ON THE UFO TRAIL
Difficulty: distance: 3.04 miles (4.89 k) per day elevation gain: 568 ft. (173 m) elevation loss: 114 ft. (35 m) altitude avg: 11,472 ft. (3,497 m), holy cross wilderness, difficulty: distance: 4.12 miles (6.63 k) per day elevation gain: 705 ft. (215 m) elevation loss: 779 ft. (237 m) altitude avg: 10,429 ft. (3,179 m).
![Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Porcupine Lake Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Porcupine Lake](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/porcupine-lake.jpg)
PORCUPINE LAKE
Difficulty: distance: 5.06 miles (8.38 k) per day elevation gain: 2,557 ft. (779 m) elevation loss: 1,140 ft. (347 m) altitude avg: 11,123 ft. (3,390 m).
![title= 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/camp-hale-highlands-flowers.jpg)
CAMP HALE HIGHLANDS
Difficulty: distance: 15.2 miles (24.46 k) total elevation gain: 4,532 ft. (1,381 m) elevation loss: 4,374 ft. (1,333 m) altitude avg: 11,087 ft. (3,379 m).
![Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Mountains Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Mountains](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/mt-princeton.jpg)
MULTI-DAY ADVENTURES
Adventures spanning several or more days are available. each trip is personalized based on individual or group skill level. some prior backpacking experience is recommended., coming soon.
![Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Night Hike Backpacking Colorado Wilderness Night Hike](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/night-dive-trip.jpg)
At night the wilderness transforms into a place rarely experienced by humans. Otherworldly and dreamlike, walking the forest at night requires added safety but can be rewarding and even transformative.
Guided trips.
![Chad Reidhead Wilderness Guide Chad Reidhead Colorado Wilderness Guide](https://coloradobackpackingadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/Chad-02.jpg)
What are you waiting for?
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Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you
Everything You Need to Know to Go Backpacking in Colorado
- March 22, 2020
- By foxintheforest
Last Updated on November 5, 2021 by foxintheforest
As a Colorado local, I’m always itching to spend the night under the stars. Backpacking in the high alpine takes a little bit of getting used to, especially to the uninitiated. Make your Colorado backpacking trip a smashing success with these tips for backpacking in Colorado.
I’ve lived here for over 12 years and scoured the state. Each year I combine my two favorite loves, backpacking and climbing, for an incredible Colorado backpacking experience. I’m dying to give you the inside scoop about how to make your backpacking adventure a smashing success, so let’s dive in.
About this Guide to Colorado Backpacking
This post is the place to find expert, local advice about Colorado backpacking. We’ll cover:
- When to backpack in Colorado
- The best backpacking trips in Colorado
- Colorado backpacking packing list
- Permit information
- Tips and tricks for backpacking Colorado
- Additional Colorado adventure travel resources
![1 night backpacking trips colorado backpacking colorado](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-2-1024x768.jpg)
When is the Best Time to Backpack in Colorado?
One of my favorite parts about living in Colorado is that you can backpack Colorado year-round. That’s right! In the winter months, simply head out towards the desert areas of the Western Slope for year-round backpacking.
However, if mountain scenery is what you seek, then the best time of year to backpack in Colorado is from July through September.
Keep in mind, there is still plenty of snow in the mountains in June. Can you backpack? Sure, but you’ll want to stay at lower elevations to avoid camping in the snow.
Related: Best Time of Year to Visit Colorado
Where are the Best Places to Backpack in Colorado?
We are spoiled for choice when it comes to where to go Colorado backpacking. With seemingly endless mountains, beautiful canyons, and unbelievable desert scenery, there’s a lot going on.
For the best places to backpack in Colorado, check out these areas:
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Lone Eagle Peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness
- The Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness
- Colorado National Monument and surrounding areas
- South Colony Lakes and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Colorado backpacking tips](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-4-1024x768.jpg)
What Items Do I Need to Pack for Colorado Backpacking?
Now that you’ve found the perfect backpacking trail, you’ve gotta get packing! Here are a few Colorado backpacking essentials you can’t leave home without:
- A three-season sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Odor- p roof bags with a waterproof stuff sack to hang your food and trash.
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- First Aid Kit
- A bathroom kit. Shovel, sani-hands, and TP.
- WAG bags (for going number 2 above treeline)
- A trash baggie for your toilet paper
- Water filter and a reusable water bottle or water bladder
- Lightweight backpacking stove with fuel
- backpacking pot
- Backpacking meals. DIY backpacking meals are simply the best.
- Plenty of high-calorie snacks for burning calories at altitude
- Lightweight gloves
- Rain jacket and rain pants
- Non-cotton socks 2x pair
- Hiking clothes with convertible pants
- Fleece layer
- Puffy jacket
- Duct tape, blister kit, fishing wire, safety pin
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat
- Females: A Pee Funnel
Do I Need a Permit to Go Backpacking in Colorado?
The answer: it depends. Many of Colorado’s best backpacking routes don’t require permits, but there are quite a few that do.
Any national park requires a permit to spend the night in the backcountry. Other popular wilderness areas also require permits, so check by Googling your trail name and “permit requirements” to see if you need to snag something.
Permit systems in Colorado fill up super-fast, so plan accordingly. Weekends in the summer are particularly tough, and many of the most popular permitted routes will fill up by the 1st of the year.
Didn’t snag a permit? No problem! You can still enjoy Colorado backpacking. In fact, many of the best (and secret) backpacking routes in Colorado don’t require permits.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado backpacking in Colorado with a dog](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-3-1024x768.jpg)
Tips for an Epic Colorado Backpacking Adventure
Get more out of your Colorado backpacking experience. Travel the trails like a seasoned local by following these Colorado backpacking tips.
Protect Your Food
Colorado is home to an amazing array of wildlife, but most of the mountain critters are particularly interested in your food. Sure, Colorado is home to black bears, and you want to keep your food away from them, but oftentimes the creatures that cause the most problems are of the small rodent variety.
Protect your food by hanging all stinky items (trash, food, toiletries) up in a tree at least 200 feet or 70 adult steps from your camp.
One time I left our food bag on the ground while I went to check out a nearby view. I figured it would be fine for 10 minutes, I had my stuff in odor-proof bags after all.
I returned to find that a small mountain rodent had chewed through my expensive dry bag AND the odor bag to invade my dog’s food supply. No fun!
Tread Lightly
The high alpine environment is super-sensitive. The lichen on the rocks takes eons to grow, thanks to harsh winters. Things really hang in the balance here, so try to camp on durable surfaces or previously established sites.
Don’t stomp through wildflowers or other vegetation. If you have to travel off-trail, fan out your group so you don’t destroy any delicate plant life.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado backpacking colorado](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-7-1024x683.jpg)
Skip the Fire
There are often fire bans in Colorado, and forest fires caused by campers is a huge issue. If you’re backpacking in Colorado and camping in the high alpine, skip the fire unless you need it for survival.
First, there is very little wood and that wood is providing much-needed nutrients for the soil. Second, a fire in the alpine can quickly get out of control if a gust of wind comes by, so cook with a stove instead.
If you’re in the lower elevations, only have a small fire at previously established fire rings. Never build a new fire ring unless it’s necessary for your survival to avoid scaring the earth.
Watch the Weather
Mountain weather is unruly and pretty unpredictable. Storms can crash over mountain tops in an instant, and if you’re high on a ridge, this can spell disaster. Camp in lower-lying areas and try to stay in the trees for protection.
If you get caught in a lightning storm, assume the lighting position for safety and leave your tent immediately.
Lastly, pack for variable weather. It can be super hot during the day and dip into frigid temps at night while backpacking in Colorado.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado colorado backpacking tips](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-5-1024x768.jpg)
Give Wildlife Space
Wandering through the wilderness and bumping into elk, moose, mountain goats or even a bear is certainly a thrilling experience. However, these animals are very skittish and certainly dangerous.
Give all wildlife a wide berth. If you encounter an elk or moose, try to put a large tree (or three) between you!
We were hiking in the Indian Peaks wilderness when we turned the corner to find a mamma moose and her two babies! It was incredible, but also unnerving to be around 30 feet from these creatures without warning. We ended up leaving the trail, talking calmly to the moose family and put plenty of large objects between the two of us as we passed.
Acclimatize Properly
If you’re coming from out of town, take the time to acclimatize properly before hitting the trail. The altitude here is real, and when you’re carrying a heavy pack, it feels even heavier.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine for your first couple of days and ascend slowly. If you feel sick from the altitude, remember, the only way to get better is to go down, there is no waiting it out. Everyone reacts to altitude differently. I’ve lived at altitude for nearly half my life and I still get AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) from time to time.
Take Your Time
Revel in the beauty of Colorado backpacking. Unless you’re going for an epic thru-hike, take your time on the trail! There is plenty of time to relax and soak in all the amazing views!
Don’t try to take on too many miles per day, unless you’re well-versed in high altitude travel. 12 miles in the alpine is a lot different than 12 miles in the hills or on flat terrain.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado tips for backpacking in colorado](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-1-2-1024x768.jpg)
Check Road Conditions
Colorado has a lot of dirt and 4WD roads that lead to amazing backpacking. Before you hit the trail, make sure you know what conditions exist on the way to the trailhead.
Do you need high clearance? Is the road open and obstacle-free? Are you able to park overnight?
Lastly, keep in mind if you’re coming back towards Denver on a Saturday or Sunday there is almost always mountain traffic, especially on Highway 285 and I-70. Traffic starts to build around 10:30 am and stick around until 6 pm or later.
Follow All Regulations
Rules and regulations differ for backpacking in Colorado depending on where you are. Always follow all leash laws, waste disposal regulations, and drone restrictions. If you don’t know, check around by Googling the name of the national forest, park, or wilderness area and regulations.
![1 night backpacking trips colorado backpacking tips for colorado](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Colorado_Backpacking_Tips-2-2-1024x768.jpg)
Bring Layers
Colorado’s unruly weather means you’ll want to pack plenty of layers. I never leave home to go Colorado backpacking without my fleece, a puffy, my favorite beanie, a Buff headband, and lightweight gloves. If I don’t end up using these items (which is never by the way), you can use them to make a cozy backcountry pillow or butt rest.
Bask in the Alpenglow
Want in on a local Colorado Backpacking secret? Get up for sunrise. There’s nothing more fantastic than basking in the alpenglow as you watch the mountain scenery come to life.
Now you’ve got a slew of local Colorado backpacking tips. So strap on your pack and hit the trail this season for an epic backpacking adventure.
Additional Colorado Outdoor Travel Resources
- The Mega-List of the Best Camp Spots in Colorado
- 11 Fun-Filled Colorado 14ers You’ve Gotta Climb
- The Expert Guide to Hiking in Colorado
- Where to Have the Best Outdoor Adventures in Colorado
![1 night backpacking trips colorado Planning a backpacking trip to Colorado? If you're wondering how to even start planning, here's the only guide you'll ever need to backpack and travel Colorado for outdoor lovers - from top tips to what to pack and more! #Colorado #USA](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COLORADO.jpg)
Meg Atteberry
Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.
Let’s connect!
![Hi There! Meg Atteberry standing on a mountain sticking her tongue out](https://www.foxintheforest.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/PXL_20230805_154624144-300x296.jpg)
Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. She's been widely-published in the outdoors and even appeared on National TV talking about how to level up your outdoor skills and discover hidden hikes in the American West.
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Denver's Top 5 Backpacking Trips
Colorado's best multiday trips, as selected by backpacker local scout stasia callaghan.
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Denver is close to countless superlative backpacking trips–so you know that these picks, which range from the jagged San Juan Mountains to the lonely Gore Range to the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park, must be really special. Our top five stand out from the crowd with their incredible scenery, wildflowers, wildlife, challenge, and solitude.
![willow lakes None](https://cdn.backpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/willow-lakes.jpg?width=730)
1. Willow Lakes, Eagles Nest Wilderness
Trailhead: Rock Creek (Silverthorne)
Mileage: 16 (round-trip)
Elevation gain: 2,367 feet
Drive from Denver: 1 hour 45 minutes
The Gore Range is one of Colorado’s hidden gems, and this easy out-and- back gives weekenders some serious bang for buck. Classic Summit County views of Red Peak’s jagged ridgeline trace the horizon while three perfect subalpine lakes—Lower Willow, Upper Willow, and Salmon Lake—dot the surrounding landscape. Do it in a single overnight or bring the fly rod and spend an extra day on the lake’s shore casting lines and basking in the Colorado sun.
![ice lake basin None](https://cdn.backpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ice-lake-basin.jpg?width=730)
2. Ice Lakes & Island Lake, San Juans
Trailhead: South Mineral Campground
Mileage: 9 (round-trip)
Elevation gain: 3,000 feet
Drive from Denver: 6 hours
This one includes a lot of windshield time, but it’s worth it: You’ll be immersed in the classic southwestern Colorado scene of turquoise lakes surrounded by rocky, high-elevation peaks. Bonus: This trail’s got waterfalls, too. Be prepared for a steep hike in; hitting it early leaves plenty of time to linger at the lake after setting up camp. You’ll hit Lower Ice Lake Basin first, then continue up to Ice Lake and then Island Lake at 12,400 feet. Do it in midsummer to catch blooms like columbine, alpine forget-me-nots, and sky pilot, or see killer fall colors later in the year.
![kneeknocker pass None](https://cdn.backpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/kneeknocker-pass.jpg?width=730)
3. Bubble Lake via Kneeknocker Pass, Eagles Nest Wilderness
Trailhead: Piney Lake
Mileage: 13 (round-trip)
Elevation gain: 3,500 feet
Distance from Denver: 2 hours 30 minutes
Getting anywhere in the rugged Gore Range is far from easy, and venturing all the way to Bubble Lake, tucked deep in the craggy peaks and scree-covered slopes of the Eagles Nest Wilderness, requires sheer determination. But, it’s worth it: You’ll have views of high peaks and a cobalt-blue alpine lake all to yourself. Begin the journey at the Piney Lake Trailhead outside of Vail and follow the Upper Piney River Trail about 3 miles, then take the obvious but unmarked trail to the northeast to the base of Kneeknocker Pass. Pitch a tent here before taking on the climb over the 12,000-foot pass in the morning. Once over the pass, the final push to Bubble Lake requires a bit of routefinding. Continue down the gully for about a mile—scrambling over boulder fields along the way—and then ascend the ridge to the south to reach Bubble Lake. Camp at the lake and rise early to hike back to the trailhead the next day or, better yet, bring your fly rod and stay an extra night in the solitude of the Gores.
![flattop mountain None](https://cdn.backpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/flattop-mountain.jpg?width=730)
4. Continental Divide Loop , Rocky Mountain National Park
Trailhead: Tonahutu Creek
Mileage: 25-mile loop
Elevation gain: 3,800 feet
Distance from Denver: 2 hours
This multiday loop along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is without a doubt a Colorado classic. Driving across Trail Ridge Road alone offers impressive views, but backpacking through Rocky Mountain National Park is where the real bliss is. Waterfalls, mountain meadows, and wildlife—including elk and moose—are scattered along the trail, unveiling new views around every bend. Begin at the Tonahutu Creek Trailhead just outside of Grand Lake and follow the loop counterclockwise. Link the Tonahutu Trail with the North Inlet Trail for a glorious 25-mile loop with classic scenery of Longs Peak and views from summit of 12,362-foot Flattop Mountain.
![east maroon pass None](https://cdn.backpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/east-maroon-pass.jpg?width=730)
5. Aspen to Crested Butte via East Maroon Pass, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
Trailhead: Maroon Lake
Mileage: 14 (point-to-point)
Elevation gain: 3,091 feet
Distance from Denver: 4 hours (to Aspen)
Any hike near the Maroon Bells is popular, and for good reason: Few places in the state are more picturesque than the ruggedly beautiful Elk Mountains. Dodge the crowds of Aspen’s most popular trails and hike from Aspen to Crested Butte via East Maroon Pass for equally jaw-dropping views. (Expect to still see other happy hikers along the trail—you are still in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, after all.) Split the 14-mile trek into two days, camping on the Crested Butte side of East Maroon Pass near Copper Lake. Shuttle back to Aspen from Crested Butte (after grabbing grub at Teocalli Tamale , of course) or return on the extra-scenic route by hiking back to Aspen via West Maroon Pass.
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12 Epic Multi-Night Loop Hikes in the US
D ilemma: you need a little backpacking trip to decompress from your stressful everyday life, but you’re too burnt out from your stressful everyday life to deal with the logistical hassle of planning a little backpacking trip.
What you need, sweet reader, is a nice, peaceful loop hike. Simply show up at the trailhead, hike in a big circle, and at the end of it you can hop in your car and go home. No backtracking or fussy shuttle arrangements needed.
To make this process even easier for you, we’ve listed some of the best loop hikes in the US for your viewing pleasure, ordered from longest to shortest. Next time you need to peace out to the mountains, you can just pick a hike from the list below and start packing. Smooch.
12 of the Best Multi-Day Loop Hikes in the US
1. collegiate loop | colorado.
Length: 162 miles Elevation Gain/Loss: 35,000 ft Time to Complete: 8 – 16 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/tg-colorado-trail-48.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Collegiate Loop. The Real Hiking Viking photo
Ed. note: As of this writing, the Collegiate Loop is temporarily closed due to the Interlaken Fire.
Thru-hikers of the Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail have to pick which half of the Collegiate Loop they want to hike: the high mountains of the West or the lower, lusher, hot-springs-resort-having East. But you, loop hiker, don’t have to choose. You get to experience both.
Numerous 14,000-foot peaks are accessible from this route, and even if you skip the summits, you’ll be treated to constant glorious views and highly swimmable alpine lakes. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort is worth a stop on the eastern half of this trail, as is the quirky town of Salida right around the midpoint.
Twin Lakes would be the most logical place to start and end this hike, as it’s right on the trail and easily accessible from Denver.
2. Wonderland Trail | Washington
Length: 93 miles Elevation Gain/Loss: 22,000 feet Time to Complete: 5 – 10 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado best loop hikes us](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/27213931/IMG_8603-scaled.jpeg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Wonderland Trail. Madeline Newel photo
One might say the Wonderland Trail is the premier loop hike in the US. This rugged circumnavigation of Mount Rainier will allow you to appreciate everyone’s favorite snow-capped stratovolcano from all angles.
This is a diverse and challenging hike with distinct Sound of Music vibes, complete with wildflower-strewn meadows and occasionally being stricken with the sudden giddy urge to frolic and burst into song at unpredictable moments.
To be fair, logistics are fairly complicated with this hike: the fact that you don’t need a shuttle is about the only straightforward thing about it. You’ll need to secure a competitive permit for the hike, and unless you’re hiking very quickly, you may want to cache food at one or more ranger stations along the way.
But we couldn’t write a list of the “best loop hikes in the US” and not include this bucket-list gem. This one is worth a little extra effort.
3. North Circle Loop | Montana
Length: 52 miles Elevation Gain/Loss: 12,000 ft Time to Complete: 4 – 6 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado best loop hikes us](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23111635/Elizabeth_Lake_Glacier_National_Park.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: North Circle Loop. Mark Goble photo
What better way to explore the vastness of Glacier National Park’s backcountry than on this breathtaking 52-mile tour? The route covers some of Glacier’s best highlights, including Ptarmigan Pass and Elizabeth Lake. If you haven’t been to the northern Rockies, it’s hard to put their beauty into words. Just go and see for yourself.
This hike is very much in grizzly country, so make sure you bring a bear canister for your food and bear spray. Keep your spray accessible during the day, people! And like the Wonderland Trail above, you do need to apply for a competitive permit to hike this trail. It’s worth it.
4. Three Sisters Loop | Oregon
Length: 47.5 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 7,000 ft Time to Complete: 3 – 5 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado best loop hikes us](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/landscape5.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Three Sisters Loop. Jean Taggart photo
The Three Sisters Loop circumnavigates three iconic volcanic peaks in Oregon. You guessed it, those peaks are the Three Sisters. The route knits together the Green Lakes, Scott Pass, Pacific Crest, LeConte Crater, and Moraine Lake trails to make a big loop around South, Middle, and North Sister.
If you’re looking for a little flavor of the Pacific Northwest, the PCT, and the Wonderland Trail without all the permitting hassle, this is a great option. From glacial streams and berry patches to challenging lava field traverses, this hike has a little bit of everything. The route is moderately challenging and short enough to complete on a single resupply.
Permits here.
5. Rae Lakes Loop | California
Length: 41 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 7,700 ft Time to Complete: 3 – 5 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado best loop hikes us](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23111136/1280px-Refllections_at_Rae_Lakes_4896495473.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Rae Lakes Loop. Peretz Partensky photo
For those who don’t have time to hike the whole John Muir Trail (much less the PCT), the Rae Lakes Loop will give you a tour of some of the most stunning scenery in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in less than one week. We recommend going as slow as you can, honestly, the better to take in the unmatched beauty of this range.
The hike involves, as you might imagine, a lot of lakes, but also high passes and rivers and waterfalls and meadows and other glorious mountainy things. Everything you could want, really, coupled with a healthy dose of elevation change just to remind you you’re alive.
Yes, you need a permit for this one also (sorry!), but it is relatively easy to obtain through recreation.gov or walk-up.
6. Timberline Trail | Oregon
Length: 41 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 10,800 ft Time to Complete: 2 – 4 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/30172328/DSC01399-scaled.jpeg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Timberline Trail. Sydney Brehm photo
Woo, let’s bundle aaaaalll the west coast hikes together in the middle of the list! No loop hike roundup would be complete without the Timberline Trail, a 41-mile circumnavigation of Mount Hood.
It’s very much like a miniature Wonderland Trail, only shorter and more rugged. Most of the glacial stream crossings you’ll encounter on this hike are unbridged, unlike the WT, and the trail is not nearly as heavily regulated (all you need is a self-issued permit for Mt. Hood National Forest when you arrive).
The views are glorious and the all-you-can-eat breakfast at the Timberline Lodge, famous among PCT hikers, isn’t too shabby either. The Lodge is a logical place to start your hike, with easy road access and ample overnight parking for your vehicle.
7. Shawnee Backpacking Trail | Ohio
Length: 36 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 6,000 ft Time to Complete: 2 – 4 days Hiking Season: April – October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Shawnee-State-Forest-view.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Shawnee Backpacking Trail. Jim Rahtz photo
Located in Shawnee National Forest, this loop is a wonderful celebration of the Appalachian foothills. Apparently the region is sometimes called the “Little Smokies” for its resemblance to North Carolina and Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
It may not boast the high peaks of the west, but Ohio has a lot to offer backpackers. The Shawnee Backpacking Trail is pristine and tranquil, exploring lush forests with ample wildlife-spotting opportunities. And you’ll still be rewarded with glorious panoramic views of the surrounding rolling mountains; you just have to work a bit for them.
8. Virginia Triple Crown Loop | Virginia
Length: 34 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 7,900 ft Time to Complete: 2 – 3 days Hiking Season: April – November
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/29142344/45889362695_33cec2a185_o.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: VA Triple Crown. Alison Bell photo
Three iconic viewpoints in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains — Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and. Tinker Cliffs — make up the Virginia Triple Crown. AT hikers get to enjoy all three in quick succession, as they all fall on the white blazes, and they’re all easily accessible as day hikes. But where’s the fun in that when you could combine all three into a nice juicy weekend backpacking loop?
You can do just that by linking the AT with the North Mountain Trail. In true east coast fashion, this trail involves a lot of up and down in a short distance, and while the AT is heavily trafficked and well maintained, the North Mountain Trail is quieter and can get overgrown in summer. Pants might be a good idea.
9. Pemi Loop | NH
Length: 32 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 9,500 ft Time to Complete: 2 – 4 days Hiking Season: Mid-May – October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado best loop hikes us](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/21115310/IMG_0965-scaled-e1711043831320.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Pemi Loop. Brian Garner photo
If I were going to name a loop-hike equivalent to Rae Lakes for the east coast, it would be the Pemigewasset Loop, affectionately known as the Pemi Loop. For those who don’t have time for an AT thru-hike, this strenuous 32-mile tour of the White Mountains is a highlights-reel of one of the most beautiful and memorable ranges the AT crosses.
In the space of a long weekend, you’ll get to experience some of the precious little alpine-zone hiking on the east coast and will have the option to stay (or at least eat) at one of the Whites’ iconic AMC huts, which are maybe the closest thing to European-style mountain refuges you’ll find in this country. The route includes Franconia Ridge, one of the most famous and glorious ridgeline walks in these mountains.
These mountains are popular, so although you do not need a permit for the Pemi Loop, you must reserve your campsites well in advance.
10. Four Pass Loop | Colorado
Length: 26 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 7,800 ft Time to Complete: 2 – 4 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
![1 night backpacking trips colorado 1 night backpacking trips colorado](https://photos.thetrek.co/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/18111556/Maroon-Snowmass-BP-8-12-18-1081.jpg)
Best loop hikes in the US: Four Pass Loop. Troy Zohner photo
The Four Pass Loop contains a lot of elevation change in a short distance, but the lactic acid will be well worth it. This short loop is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness, bringing you to many highlights including the eponymous four passes themselves: Buckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Air, and West Maroon.
Its beauty is also reflected in the popularity of this trail — solitude is not one of the Four Pass Loop’s strong suits. You’ll need to apply ahead of time for a permit through recreation.gov .
Afternoon thunderstorms are characteristic of the Rockies (and many high mountains, but let’s be real, especially the Rockies), so be careful and try to be below treeline as much as possible in the afternoons.
11. Pin-Chin-Sky Loop | Alabama
Length: 19 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,000 ft Time to Complete: 2 days Hiking Season: March – November
You could definitely complete this short and sweet lil’ trail in just one day, but many hikers choose to extend it into an overnight. The Pin-Chin-Sky Loop is a favorite among Alabama backpackers. You won’t get above treeline, but you will be immersed in glorious nature and you’ll still be treated to some epic viewpoints along the way.
Why is it called the Pin-Chin-Sky, you ask? The answer is surprisingly straightforward: the route combines three trails, the Pinhoti, the Chinabee Silent, and the Skyway Loop, to create a 19-mile circuit through the Cheaha Wilderness and Talladega National Forest.
The trail is only moderately challenging and logistically very easy, with no need to resupply or secure permits along the way.
12. Paintbrush and Cascade Canyons | Wyoming
Length: 18 mi Elevation Gain/Loss: 4,100 ft Time to Complete: 2 days Hiking Season: Late June – Early October
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Best loop hikes in the US: Paintbrush – Cascade Canyons. Anne Baker photo
The Tetons are exceptionally lovely mountains, and this loop in Grand Teton National Park will show you the best of them. There’s a decent amount of elevation change for such a short lil’ hike, but no technical skills are required unless you go really early in the season when the passes are still snowbound.
If you only have the weekend to explore, this loop is a great way to experience Wyoming’s jagged peaks and colorful glacial lakes. You might also get to see wildlife such as moose, bears, and marmots, to say nothing of all the beautiful wildflowers up there.
You do need to get a permit for this hike from recreation.gov , but getting the campsites you want shouldn’t be a problem.
What are some of your favorite loop hikes in the US? Let us know!
Featured image: Madeline Newel photo. Graphic design by Chris Helm .
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Oh hey there! I'm Ibex, managing editor of this site. I mostly spend my spare time scheming new adventures and inadvertently setting my hair on fire while cooking. Thru-hikes: Appalachian Trail 2018 | Wonderland Trail 2019 | Colorado Trail 2020 + 2021 | Wind River High Route 2022 | Pyrenean Haute Route 2023
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I know it doesn’t compete with the high alpine trails, but the Eagle Rock Loop in SW Arkansas is fantastic. Ridges with expansive views, multiple water features, and unique rock formations abound.
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I was just coming here to say this! Eagle Rock Loop is a great 26.8 mile hike, combining 3 trails.
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Also here to endorse Eagle Rock Loop – access can be a bit tricky, but you’ll get a decent amount of elevation change and there is water evvvvverywhere.
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What are the criteria? It seems that every time The Trek does a “Best of” or “Epic” list article, the criteria used to determine best or epic are missing from the article. I am planning a trip to Washington/Oregon in September and have read a lot about the Wonderland Trail around Mt. Rainier and the Timberline Trail around Mt. Hood. It is easy to see why those trails make this list. But the others seem a bit random, at least to me…
It’s good that the article ends with asking what other trails readers might recommend. My suggestion is the Black Forest Trail in Pennsylvania; a 42.8 mile loop in northcentral PA in the Pine Creek Gorge, considered on the most challenging hikes in PA. And one of the first trails I ever hiked as a teenager in the 1970s.
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The Big SEKI Loop, which can be split into two (upper or lower) if you don’t have time for the full 16 day, 165ish miles. I enjoyed the lower more and did that portion on a second trip – 106 miles over 12 days. You get to do a large portion of Rae Lakes, tackle a portion of the High Sierra Trail, and see a lot of what Sequioa Kings Canyon in California has to offer. Great alternative to JMT even though you’ll be on that trail for a while.
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The Collegiate Loop is not closed, just access to the trail at Twin Lakes. You can get on the trail west of Twin Lakes.
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The 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail is a must do in my opinion.
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Seconded. No views east of the Rockies will compare to the West Coast, but a few nice views plus the dramatic river scenes make it really special considering its length.
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Just a quick corrective note for all: The Shawnee Backpacking Trail in Ohio is located in Shawnee STATE Forest, not National Forest. Ohio only has one National Forest which is called Wayne National Forest (Backpacking trails within there too).
Just don’t want anyone to be confused when looking up Shawnee National Forest, which is actually located in Illinois.
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Average time to complete: Overnight. 14. Zirkel Circle. Located near Steamboat Springs, this challenging climb is one of the best backpacking trips in Colorado that takes you through the Zirkel Wilderness and on a loop hike past Gilpin Lake and along the Gold Creek Lake Trail.
8. Conundrum Hot Springs. Backpacking to Conundrum Hot Springs is a rewarding journey with rushing creeks, views of rugged mountain ridges, and (of course) natural hot springs. The trailhead to Conundrum Hot Springs begins at the Conundrum Creek Trailhead, located near Aspen, Colorado.
Best backpacking trip near Breckenridge: Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes. (Image credit: Eric Mauge) Distance: 8.4 miles Difficulty: Difficult. Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes offers some of the best views of Colorado's high country with lots of great backcountry camping spots along the way.
This beginner-friendly backpacking trip is the perfect introduction to Colorado, and a great option for families looking to take their kids into the wilderness on an unforgettable adventure. Hike to Wild Basin with a Guide. 2. Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass.
Buy onX Backcountry or start a free trial to explore these bucket list backpacking trips and more. Buy Now Start Free Trial. 1. Pawnee and Buchanan Pass Loop. Front Range. Getting to the top of Buchanan Pass. Photo: Kevin Murray. The loop through Pawnee Pass (12,542 feet) and Buchanan Pass (11,837 feet) is dramatic, strenuous, and unforgettable.
The Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado. Seriously. 15+ hikes. Details on each one, trail distance, hiking time, highlights, distance from Denver, and more. ... Trail Info: Campsites are 5-6 miles in, you can spend the night(s) and summit the nearby 14ers, no campfires, pack out ALL waste.
The average through hike time for the whole shebang is 6 months at 17 miles per day. 740 of those miles of CDT are available in central Colorado. Its highest point in the trail is Grays Peak in CO at 14,270 feet. Waterton Lake in Montana is at its lowest point at 4,200 feet. More than 1,000 summits in Colorado top 10,000 feet on the CTD, making ...
The Monarch Lake Trailhead leading to Mirror Lake and Crater Lake is a popular backpacking hike in Colorado's Indian Peaks Wilderness. Follow the Cascade Trail which features two shimmering lakes, steep waterfalls and stream-side walks. The moderately rated trail ends at Crater Lake with Lone Eagle Peak soaring above at 11,920'.
1. Continental Divide Loop - Best for Experienced Backpackers Looking for a 3 Day 2 Night Backpacking Adventure. 2. Colorado Trail (Segment 7) - Best for Those Searching for 1 Night Backpacking Trips in Colorado. 3. Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop - One of Colorado's Most Popular Summer Time Backpacking Loops. 4.
Probably the most popular backpacking loop in Colorado, this one is a must-do. Despite its popularity, you will undoubtedly find plenty of solitude on this 27-mile loop in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. ... Though you can complete this loop in a four-day / three-night trip, it could be worth staying out for an extra night to enjoy the ...
5. Longs Peak Overnight Trip. This trip is not for the faint of heart, but rather for the group looking for the most complete and memorable Colorado backpacking experience that can be found. Longs Peak is arguably Colorado's most iconic 14er, and the overnight Boulder Field site is one of the highest designated campsites in the state. Well ...
I rounded out my Colorado backpacking experience on one of the most coveted trails of all — the Colorado Trail. Well, a section of it anyway — the entire CT is 485 miles long, so a bit ambitious for an overnight trip. Fortunately, the trail is divided into 28 segments, each with its own access point. Since the CT runs from Denver to Durango ...
10 Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado 1. Wild Basin, Rocky Mountain National Park ... The lower lake is just 3.5 miles in and is a nice spot to camp for the night. From there, hike a half mile to the middle lake and another quarter mile to the upper lake for some stunning alpine views. Difficulty Level - moderate;
Backpacking Colorado 14ers in the Chicago Basin. Length: 21-38 miles (33.80 - 61.26 kilometers) The Chicago Basin in Colorado is one of the most popular backpacking destinations offering stunning views, challenging trails and the opportunity to climb three 14ers - Mount Eolus, Sunlight Peak and Windom Peak - in one amazing trip.
Permits are required for backpacking trips in Rocky Mountain National Park. Permits are $30, you can find them on this website. In the busy season, permits can be reserved 60 days in advance, 30 days in advance from November 1 to April 30. You can pick them up at either the Beaver Meadows or Kawuneeche visitor centers.
Campsites were packed in close on Sunday night but it thinned out quite a bit by Monday night. Arrived at the TH at 7pm Sunday and it was already more than halfway full. Split it into: 4 miles 1700' up to the lower lake camping area Sunday night, quick day hike less than 3ish round trip to the upper lake on Monday, and then hike back Tuesday AM.
These eight trips vary in distance, difficulty and seasonality, so make sure you are prepared for your Colorado backpacking trip. 1. Conundrum Hot Springs. Image from The Dyrt camper Anthony P. Trailhead: Conundrum Creek Trailhead. Distance: 16.7 miles. Elevation Gain: 2,791 feet. Route Type: Out and Back.
2 Days • 1 Night. At night the wilderness transforms into a place rarely experienced by humans. Otherworldly and dreamlike, walking the forest at night requires added safety but can be rewarding and even transformative. I own this outfit and offer one thing—guided overnight backpacking trips in the Colorado wild country.
For the best places to backpack in Colorado, check out these areas: Rocky Mountain National Park. Lone Eagle Peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness. Colorado National Monument and surrounding areas. South Colony Lakes and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Willow Lakes alpenglow Stasia Callaghan. 1. Willow Lakes, Eagles Nest Wilderness. Trailhead: Rock Creek (Silverthorne) Mileage: 16 (round-trip) Elevation gain: 2,367 feet. Drive from Denver: 1 hour 45 minutes. The Gore Range is one of Colorado's hidden gems, and this easy out-and- back gives weekenders some serious bang for buck.
There is approximately +2634 ft of elevation gain and -2659 ft of elevation loss. The lowest point is at the start 9,998 ft and the highest is at the top of Fancy Pass at around 12,390 ft. Make sure you are acclimated to hiking at high elevations and are drinking plenty of water and replenishing electrolytes!
With two epic Colorado backpacking hikes to choose from, get ready to experience Grand County like never before. And if you're in search of a shorter trip, we have a list of the best one-night backpacking trips too. Whenever you venture into the wilderness always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles.
12 of the Best Multi-Day Loop Hikes in the US 1. Collegiate Loop | Colorado. Length: 162 miles Elevation Gain/Loss: 35,000 ft Time to Complete: 8 - 16 days Hiking Season: Late June - Early October
One of my faves trails there is a moderate 2-3 night trek with an optional 13er summit - North Truchas Peak Loop. Also worth spending a couple of hours checking out the nearby Pecos National Historic Park, with a fantastic artifact museum and walking tour of some ruins.