Crisscrossing more than 39,000 miles through mountains, canyons and plains, the trail network in Colorado is already massive — yet it continues to grow each year. New routes are carved into the landscape, while extensions and improvements to existing paths add to the seemingly endless variety.
Whether you prefer boots or bike tires, there’s no better time to venture into the backcountry. Mix things up this summer and fall with these new and improved hiking trails across the state.
Virginia Canyon Mountain Park
Though still under construction, Virginia Canyon Mountain Park recently debuted 12 miles of scenic trails in Idaho Springs. All adventures within this 400-acre recreation area begin from the Rosa Gulch trailhead. Ascend 600 feet across 1.8 miles to reach “the hub” picnic site, then choose your path.
While some routes are dedicated to mountain bikers, those on foot can continue another 2 miles up the gulch to Miners Point. Alternatively, veer 1 mile west of the hub to summit Buttermilk Peak or head 0.7 miles east to climb the hikers-only Jacks Peak. Future construction will bring about an additional 16 miles of trails, plus uphill access via the Argo gondola. Note that the park is closed from January to March to protect bighorn sheep habitat. visitclearcreek.com
Boulder Valley Ranch
The west side of Boulder Valley Ranch has seen significant changes over the past few months. This applies to the 0.7-mile Eagle Trail and the 1-mile Cobalt Trail, which were both rerouted to create more gradual ascents and provide access to mountain bikers.
Hikers can combine the latter with a stretch of the Eagle Trail and the brand-new Shale Trail to create a 2.3-mile loop with panoramic views. Currently, the Hidden Valley route and a segment of the Degge Trail are under construction, but will soon accommodate adaptive cyclists. This final phase of improvements is expected to wrap up next year. bouldercolorado.gov
READ MORE: Boulder: A World-Class Cycling Destination
Ladders Trail
Find the new Ladders Trail extension at North Cheyenne Cañon Park in southwest Colorado Springs. This 2.5-mile stretch allows recreaters to avoid traveling on Gold Camp Road, which is open to vehicle traffic. Previously, it was the only way hikers could access the adjacent Stratton Open Space.
Now, both bikers and those on foot can safely travel between the two mountain parks, which respectively offer an additional 35 and 15 miles of trails to explore. Some lead to the region’s most spectacular waterfalls. coloradosprings.gov
North Sky Trail
Last summer, the city of Boulder debuted the North Sky Trail. This moderate 3.5-mile path features a 515-foot elevation gain and links the Foothills North Trail to the Joder Ranch Trail.
Admire views of the Flatirons and Mount Sanitas while heading south and keep an eye out for the rare yellow-flowering plant, Bell’s twinpod. This native mustard species grows in a few areas in Boulder and Larimer counties — and nowhere else on Earth.
Always stay on-trail to preserve it and other surrounding habitat. Additionally, to protect nesting birds, note that dogs are prohibited on this route from May 1 to July 31. bouldercolorado.gov
Vesper Trail
Curious about other places to go birding around Boulder? Check out the new Vesper Trail on Gunbarrel Hill, home to ground-nesting birds like burrowing owls, as well as grasshopper and vesper sparrows. This 1.5-mile path also provides incredible views of the Front Range and the Continental Divide, despite its minimal elevation gain of around 150 feet. Though dogs are allowed, be sure to leash them from May 1 to July 31. bouldercolorado.gov
Hanging Lake
If you’re looking for Colorado hikes with something extra, put Hanging Lake on your list. Due to damage from the Grizzly Creek Fire and subsequent mudslides, this iconic trail was closed for several months while reconstruction took place. Seven bridges, structural stonework and a new boardwalk to Spouting Rock were among the many updates to this steep 1.2-mile trail.
The 1,000-foot elevation gain is challenging, to say the least. But your effort will be rewarded with stunning views of Glenwood Canyon and sparkling turquoise waters. Plan ahead, as this National Natural Landmark now requires a $12 hiking permit and timed entry. visitglenwood.com
Northern Colorado Trail
Last fall, Loveland-based thru-hiker Kevin “Sunshine” Silvernale spent 19 days backpacking an incredible 304 miles between Estes Park and Glenwood Springs. He developed the route using existing trails and roads, and after personally testing the passage, began promoting what’s become known as the Northern Colorado Trail.
Trek past Rocky Mountain National Park and the breathtaking Flattops Wilderness Area, among other famous sites, on this epic journey. Trail guides, interactive maps and GPS waypoints for water sources, campsites and other resources are listed on Silvernale’s website. northerncoloradotrail.org
