When it comes to hiking excursions, there are few places in the United States more dynamic than Colorado. While the Rocky Mountains offer up plenty of rugged routes demanding experience and serious preparation, you don’t need to conquer a 14,000-foot peak to experience what makes Colorado hiking so breathtaking. In fact, some of the region’s most memorable scenery is accessible on trails that are short, relatively gentle, and well-suited for someone taking their first steps into the great outdoors — perfect for first-time hikers.
When visiting Colorado, you’ll find beginner-friendly paths winding around mountain lakes, pine forests, and enormous red rock formations, along with trails showcasing waterfalls, wildflowers, and local wildlife. Of course, ”beginner-friendly” doesn’t necessarily mean a flat walk through a paved park. These trails deliver excellent scenery to those who don’t mind putting in a certain amount of work, and you’ll still need to come prepared with proper hiking essentials like trail-rated footwear, water bottles, and high-energy trail snacks.
There are other factors to take into account as well: Colorado is high above sea level, meaning many trails begin at elevations that might be difficult for visitors to adapt to. That, plus the always-changing mountain weather, means you’ll want to plan your adventure carefully, and bookend your visit with a bit of wiggle room to acclimate or dodge rain and snow. With any luck, you’ll be ready to tackle some of these trails like a seasoned pro, even if you’re new to hiking.
Bear Lake Loop
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly hike in Colorado, Bear Lake Loop in Rocky Mountain National Park is an appealing place to begin. The trail circles Bear Lake for just over half a mile, with roughly 71 feet of elevation gain, making it a quick outing, especially given the impressive views of the surrounding peaks. The trail begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead at the end of Bear Lake Road…