Where To Hike In Colorado In Summer?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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  • Arapaho Pass/Lake Dorothy: Indian Peaks Wilderness. From Arapaho Pass, you can peer down to Caribou Lake. …
  • Pawnee Pass: Indian Peaks Wilderness. …
  • Elk Falls Overlook: Staunton State Park. …
  • Horseshoe Trail: Golden Gate Canyon State Park. …
  • Mills Lake: Rocky Mountain National Park.

Is it good to hike in summer?

For most places in the country,

summer is probably the best time to get some good hiking done

. Clear, sunny skies, vacation time, and long daylight hours can all mean a great, full day spent on the trail … but here in Southern California summer can often feel like the worst possible time to go outside, let alone hike.

What to wear hiking in Colorado in August?

In the Colorado summer, we like to hike in

athletic shorts and a T-shirt

, but we pack a fleece pullover or a light jacket in our daypack as well. In fact, it’s never a bad idea to carry a waterproof jacket that doubles as a windbreaker, pants, beanie, and gloves — especially when hiking at higher altitudes.

Can you hike year-round in Colorado?


Rocky Mountain National Park is open year-round

and Emerald Lake is easily one of the most coveted sights in the park. In the winter, you can enjoy frozen waterfalls on your hike in to Emerald Lake, which is framed by a white-cloaked Hallett Peak in the background. This easy trail doesn’t require snowshoes.

Where is Bison Peak Colorado?

Officially designated Bison Mountain, the prominent 12,432-foot (3,789 m) peak is located in the Lost Creek Wilderness of Pike National Forest, 8.1 miles (13.1 km) north by west (bearing 352°) of the community of Tarryall in Park County, Colorado, United States.

Where are the most beautiful mountains in Colorado?

  • Capitol Peak.
  • The Crestone Needle. …
  • The Maroon Bells. …
  • Longs Peak. …
  • Mount Crested Butte. …
  • Pikes Peak. …
  • The Nokhu Crags. …
  • Mount Sneffels. A true monster of a mountain, Mount Sneffels is the highest point in Ouray County, rising 7,200 feet above the town of Ridgway, Colorado.

Should you hike in 100 degree weather?

Off course, there is always more extreme, especially in deserts, where a combination of high temps (+100oF/+37oC), hot wind, low humidity and lack of shade means that

hiking is practically impossible during day time and should not be attempted

.

How do you stay cool on a hot hike?


Lay the hiker down in the shade, remove extra clothing and use cool water and fanning to lower their temperature

. If you’re near a lake or stream, you can attempt to lay the hiker down in the water, taking care to keep their airway clear. Also, be aware that rapid cooling can cause hypothermia.

What to bring hiking in the summer?


SUN PROTECTION

– Sun protection is an incredibly important part of any backcountry trip, even when the weather looks cloudy. Sunscreen, spf lip balm, sunglasses (preferably polarized), a brimmed hat, and protective clothing should be considered essential on every hiking trip.

Can you hike too much?

Hiking too Far or too Fast too Soon

Much like adding weight to your pack, you also have to earn the right to add miles to your day.

When you start a long trail with an overly ambitious itinerary you have a higher risk of sustaining an overuse injury.

What should I pack for Colorado in summer?

  • Lightweight day pack. There’s no doubt, you’re going to want something light and comfortable to carry essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, layered clothing and snacks for daytime activities. …
  • Hydration pack / water bottles. …
  • Sunscreen. …
  • Outdoor sandals. …
  • Rain jacket. …
  • Hat. …
  • Fleece jacket.

What should I wear to Telluride summer?

  • T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and collared shirts.
  • Shorts and long pants.
  • Swimsuit.
  • Comfortable running shoes or boots and flip flops.
  • Light, waterproof jacket.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Hat.

How long is hiking season in Colorado?

Most of the trail lies above 3,000 m or 10,000 feet. Hence the season for the Colorado Trail

starts only in July (some parts of it are covered with snow till late June) and runs through September

. Late September is likely to bring snowstorms. So the very best time to hike Colorado Trail is early July to mid-September.

Can you hike the Colorado Trail in January?


You can still get outside and hike in Colorado well after the freezing weather sets in

. In fact, the best winter hikes in Colorado often features glistening snow scenes out of a fairy tale. As a local, I’ve done the field research to bring you the most amazing winter hikes across the state.

How long does it take to hike Devil’s Backbone?

Enjoy this 14.0-mile out-and-back trail near Mount Baldy, California. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of

7 h 34 min

to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.

How long is Bison Peak?

Experience this

11.80 mile

, out and back trail near Florissant, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 28 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.

What is the prettiest area of Colorado?

  1. GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK. …
  2. GARDEN OF THE GODS. …
  3. CRESTED BUTTE. …
  4. MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK. …
  5. BRIDAL VEIL FALLS. …
  6. HANGING LAKE. …
  7. MAROON BELLS. …
  8. ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK.

What part of Colorado is the prettiest?

Although there are many beautiful mountain ranges across Colorado, the

San Juans

are arguably the most scenic. The San Juan Mountains tower above southwest Colorado with year-round access to breathtaking views often nicknamed the “American Alps.”

What is the most beautiful town in Colorado?

  • Breckenridge. Natural Feature. …
  • Creede. Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark. …
  • Crested Butte. Historical Landmark. …
  • Cripple Creek. Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark. …
  • Estes Park. Park. …
  • Georgetown. Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark. …
  • Manitou Springs. …
  • Ouray.

How do you hike in the summer?

  1. 1– Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. …
  2. 2–Wear light, loose, sweat-wicking clothes, and avoid cotton. …
  3. 3–Wear a hat & sunscreen. …
  4. 4–Start your hike early. …
  5. 5–Plan your hike for shade and water. …
  6. 6–Know the danger signs for heat stroke. …
  7. 7–Be prepared.

What’s the best time to hike?

  • Early morning (between sunrise and 9:00 a.m.)
  • Late morning through midday (between 9:00 and 2:00 p.m.)
  • Afternoon (between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m.)
  • Evening (between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m.)
  • Night (between sunset and sunrise)

How can I look cute for hiking?

  1. A pink half-zip and leggings. …
  2. A cropped half-zip and bike shorts. …
  3. A matching three-piece set. …
  4. A bomber jacket and boots. …
  5. A crop top with a longline vest. …
  6. A short one piece. …
  7. A shell jacket with a sweatshirt.

Can you hike in 30 degree weather?

Don’t worry,

you can still go hiking

. You just need a bit of preparation. When hiking in 30-degree weather, you should wear at least 3 layers.

What do you wear on a hot summer hike?

  • A breathable shirt. Long-sleeved top. …
  • Shorts or pants designed for hiking. Shorts. …
  • Breathable, seamless socks: Heat is a breeding ground for blisters, so opt for material with temperature regulation like merino wool. …
  • A wide brimmed hat. …
  • A neck gaiter. …
  • A backpack with a hiking harness.

What is good hiking weather?

The best hiking weather is

warm and breezy but not too hot or windy

. Sunny but cold days are also a pleasure to hike in if you wear multiple layers of clothing to regulate your body temperature and avoid sweating.

Kim Nguyen
Author
Kim Nguyen
Kim Nguyen is a fitness expert and personal trainer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. She is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and has trained a variety of clients, from professional athletes to everyday fitness enthusiasts. Kim is passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.