Backpacking Colorado - The Best Trails and Loops

Colorado is considered to be one of the ultimate destinations in the world for various outdoor activities, but especially backpacking. With countless trails and campsites, backpacking in Colorado provides hikers some of the most beautiful views in the United States, including crystal clear Alpine lakes, scenic mountain views, and flora and fauna unique to Colorado’s one-of-a-kind outdoor environment. Whether you’re planning on a quick day trip or headed out for primitive backcountry camping, Colorado has something for every type of adventurer. 

Trails and Loops

We’ve compiled the ultimate list of the best trails and loops in Colorado. Whether you’re backpacking or taking it easy, find the perfect trail that suits you. 

Abyss Lake Trail to Abyss Lake

The Abyss Lake Trail is a popular trail that ends at Abyss Lake. The first four miles of the trail is easy, suitable for families with kids.  During snow season the trail is plowed for the first five miles, but after that it’s a difficult few miles to traverse. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Bailey, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 16 miles roundtrip 
• Estimated Time - 5-8 hours
• Elevation Change - 3,333 feet. 
• Permit Information -  Self-issuing permit system 

More Information on the Abyss Lake Trail. 

Barr Trail to Pikes Peak

A heavily trafficked trail recommended for experienced hikers. Pikes Peak is the highest summit in the front range of the Rocky Mountains and the weather can be tumultuous. There is no potable water.

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Manitou Springs, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as advanced. 
• Length Miles - 23 miles roundtrip. 
• Estimated Time - 8–14 hours
• Elevation Change - 7,340 feet
• Permit Information - No permit needed, fee for parking

More information on the Barr Trail.

Blue Lakes Trail to Mount Sneffels

The Blue Lakes Trail to Mount Sneffels starts out in Uncompahgre National Forest and has its hikers going through crystal clear lakes, switchbacks, meadows, and more while trekking to the summit. Considered to be a quintessential hike for many Colorado adventurers, many decide to take time, set up camp, and enjoy the views instead of summiting in one day. The loose volcanic rock toward the summit makes it a “very dangerous” trail. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Ridgway, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 13 mile round trip
• Estimated Time - 4–8 hours
• Elevation Change - 5,501 feet
• Permit Information - No permit needed. 

More information on the Blue Lakes Trail. 

Cascade Creek Trail to Mirror Lake and Crater Lake

This is a heavily trafficked trail that is best used from June through November. In the off-season, it’s recommended to bring snowshoes and other types of winter backpacking essentials to protect yourself from the elements. It’s a well-maintained trail with scenic views, without much elevation change. 

• Route Type - Out & Back, with overnight campsites available. 
• Location - Tabernash, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles - 16 miles roundtrip 
• Estimated Time - 8–12 hours
• Elevation Change - 2,322 feet
• Permit Information - Permits required for overnight camping. 

More information on the Cascade Creek Trail.

Chicago Lakes Trail

The Chicago Lakes Trail is open year-round and surrounded by alpine lakes, scenic views, and wildlife including moose, elk, sheep, and goats. While the trail is intermittently rocky, it can be done in a day and hikers will get to experience panoramic views of the basin. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Georgetown, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles - 11.5 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 8–12 hours
• Elevation Change - 3,330 feet
• Permit Information - Free, self-issuing permit system

More information on the Chicago Lakes Trail.

Colorado Trail

The Colorado Trail is a unique trail in that there is over 567 miles of trail. These trails are accessible by car, bike, horse, and hiking. The Colorado Trail can be used for a day-hike to a multi-day camping adventure. There are many official guidebooks and trail databooks that can help you plan your trip. 

• Route Type - Out & Back, camping
• Location - Hundreds of miles between Denver, CO and Durango, CO. 
• Difficulty - Easy to advanced
• Length Miles - 567 miles total. Hikers can make up their routes. 
• Estimated Time - Depends based on hiker. 
• Elevation Change - Depends based on hiker. 
• Permit Information - No permits required, with the exception of arriving at a wilderness area. From there, fill out a free self-service permit. 

More information on the Colorado Trail.

Continental Divide Trail

The Continental Divide Trail stretches over 3,100 miles between the borders of Mexico and Canada. Throughout the trail, hikers can experience the arid deserts in New Mexico, up to the grassy plains and beautiful scenery in Yellowstone.  

• Route Type - Out & Back, overnight camping
• Location - From Southern New Mexico to Northern Montana. 
• Difficulty - Easy to advanced
• Length Miles - 3,100 miles total. Hikers can make up their routes. 
• Estimated Time - Depends based on hiker. 
• Elevation Change - Depends based on hiker. 
• Permit Information - Wilderness permit required when staying overnight at Rocky Mountain National Park. 

More information on the Continental Divide Trail.

Diamond Lake Trail

Diamond Lake Trail is an easy-to-moderate trail that can be done in a few hours. After hiking past waterfalls and cascades, hikers end up in an alpine lake with great fishing and incredible views. Peak hiking conditions are from July through October, but keep in mind this is a heavily trafficked trail. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Nederland, Colorado
• Difficulty - Easy
• Length Miles - 5.4 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Elevation Change - 1,220 feet
• Permit Information - Permit needed if overnight camping. Organized groups are required to have permits for camping and day-hiking. 

More information on the Diamond Lake Trail.

Four Pass Loop

As a heavily trafficked trail near Aspen, the Four Pass Loop trail is ideal for Colorado backpacking. This is a popular Colorado backpacking loop due to the beautiful scenery and challenging trails. There are long stretches of steep switchbacks, high elevation gain, and tumultuous weather. The ideal time to hike is late summer, after most of the snow has melted. 

• Route Type - Loop
• Location - Aspen, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 25.7 roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 3–4 days
• Elevation Change - 7,750 feet
• Permit Information - Free, self-issuing permits

More information on the Four Pass Loop. 

Hessie Trail to Lost Lake

The Hessie Trail to Lost Lake is a trail that is ideal for beginners at backpacking in Colorado. It’s an easy day trail, with Lost Lake being a perfect lunch spot. Watch for commonly spotted animals—especially moose! This is a popular overnight camping area and designated spots fill up fast. The Stash Cooking System can make dinner and breakfast for the whole family, keeping everyone full and satisfied throughout the trip. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Nederland, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles -  4 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 2–4 hours
• Elevation Change - 830 feet
• Permit Information - Not required, but overnight camping requires a stay at a designated campsite. 

More information on Hessie Trail. 

High Lonesome Trail

The High Lonesome Trail is a lightly trafficked trail that is primarily used for hiking and backpacking. Due to the difficulty and length of this trail, get familiar with ultralight backpacking to minimize the stress on your body. Peak season is from June through September, when much of the snow has melted. Carry water throughout this trip, as there are limited areas of freshwater creeks. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Tabernash, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles - 23.8 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 10–14 hours
• Elevation Change - 4,000 miles
• Permit Information - Permits are required for overnight stays, and a daily $5 parking fee. 

More information on the High Lonesome Trail.

Jasper Lake Trail

This trail is one of the most popular trails in Roosevelt National Forest. This is a popular Colorado backpacking destination for families, as there are several campsites spread throughout the trail, without much difficulty getting there. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Nederland, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles - 10 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 6–7 hours
• Elevation Change - 1,942 feet
• Permit Information -  Permit needed if overnight camping. Organized groups are required to have permits for camping and day-hiking. 

More information on the Jasper Lake Trail.

Lost Creek Wilderness Loop

The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is a well-kept, medium–heavy use trail. Much of the trail is through forests, limiting some of the scenic views. The best time to use this trail is March through November, but you may want to keep some snowshoes on you, regardless. March is a popular time for spring backpacking trips, so keep in mind you may run into many hikers along the way. Non-potable water must be treated before drinking.

• Route Type - Loop
• Location - Grant, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 28 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 1–2 days
• Elevation Change - 5,300 feet
• Permit Information - Self-issued permit

More information on the Lost Creek Wilderness Loop.

Mountain Lion Trail

This trail accommodates hikers, bikers, runners, and horses. Because the Mountain Lion Trail is a loop, it’s recommended to travel clockwise, making it easier for all the hikers to fit. This is the longest trail in Golden State Canyon and is heavily trafficked. 

• Route Type - Loop
• Location - Pinecliffe, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles - 6.9 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 2–5 hours
• Elevation Change - 1,600 feet
• Permit Information - Entry fee per vehicle, or per person with no vehicle. 

More information on the Mountain Lion Trail.

Rawah Lakes Loop

Like most of the trails that you’ll backpack in Colorado, this loop offers scenic views of meadows, lush forests, and crystal clear lakes and creeks. There are several camp areas to choose from, though campers are required to pick a site that is at least 200 feet from lakes to protect the natural vegetation. 

• Route Type - Loop
• Location - Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 23.2 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 1–2 days
• Elevation Change - 4,000 feet
• Permit Information - No permit required

More information on the Rawah Lakes Loop. 

Silver Basin Loop

The Silver Basin Loop is considered to be one of the most scenic trails in the Ragged Wilderness area. Providing hikers with wildlife views, unique wildflowers like the Indian Paintbrush, and a sky filled with golden and bald eagles, this is a special trail for adventurers. This lightly traveled loop is best traversed in summer. 

• Route Type - Loop
• Location - Crested Butte, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as moderate
• Length Miles - 6 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 1–3 hours
• Elevation Change - 2,700 feet
• Permit Information - Permit not required

More information on the Silver Basin Loop.

South Boulder Creek Trail to Crater Lakes Trail

This is a popular hike that can be either a day-long hike or an overnight Colorado backpacking trip. It’s a challenging trail that offers mountain views, clear alpine lakes, and lush forests. For winter hikers, it’s a popular snowshoeing trail. The end of the trail offers the most challenges as there are many steep climbs and unsteady ground before you get to Crater Lake. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Black Hawk, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 6.8 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 2–5 hours
• Elevation Change - 1,800 feet
• Permit Information - No permits required

More information on the South Boulder Creek Trail.

Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes Trail

This Colorado backpacking trail is a heavily trafficked, yet difficult hike that is best traversed from July through October. The Spruce Creek Trail reaches Mayflower Lakes, a popular resting spot among hikers. The route gets steep as you make your way to Upper Mohawk Lake, so be prepared for some difficult climbs. 

• Route Type - Out & Back
• Location - Breckenridge, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 8.4 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 3–5 hours
• Elevation Change - 2,100 feet
• Permit Information - No permit required

More information on the Spruce Creek Trail.

Venable–Comanche Trail Loop

This loop starts at the Venable Trailhead just outside of Westcliffe. Loops are hard to find in this area of Colorado, and the distinctive landscape of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is a must-see so it’s popular with backpackers in Colorado. Like most of the trails in Colorado, hikers are surrounded by lakes, mountain views, and unique flora and fauna to the area. 

• Route Type - Loop
• Location - Westcliffe, Colorado
• Difficulty - Rated as difficult
• Length Miles - 12 miles roundtrip
• Estimated Time - 5–9 hours
• Elevation Change - 3,900 feet
• Permit Information - No permit required

More information on the Venable-Comanche Trail Loop.

There’s Endless Opportunity Backpacking Colorado

It doesn’t matter if you’re an avid hiker or a beginner enthusiast, if you like to backpack, Colorado needs to be on your bucket list. With countless trails and loops, you’ll never feel like you are out of things to do when you decide to backpack in Colorado. This comprehensive list is just a start—use our guide to start your adventure today.