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Colorado’s summer hiking season is short but unforgettable. From alpine lakes to towering dunes, these trails offer some of the best views in the Rockies.

I’ve hiked each one personally and included photos, tips, and links to full guides to help you plan.

These are my top picks for the best summer hikes in Colorado — perfect for every skill level.

The Best Summer Hikes In Colorado

1. Maroon Bells

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.9-mile loop
Elevation Gain: 160ft

The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop is one of the most iconic hikes in Colorado.

Located near Aspen, this easy trail wraps around Maroon Lake, offering postcard-worthy views.

Such as the famous twin peaks, wildflower-strewn meadows, and a peaceful beaver pond.

It’s ideal for families, photographers, or anyone who just wants a relaxing walk in nature.

2. Ice Lake Basin

Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 8.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,874 ft

Located in Uncompahgre National Forest, the strenuous Ice Lake Basin hike leads to a jaw-dropping turquoise lake at 12,260 feet.

Add on Island Lake if you’re up for an extra 1.5 miles.

Expect wildflowers, waterfalls, and epic alpine views — it’s one of my all-time favorite summer hikes in Colorado.

Read my step-by-step guide: Ice Lake Basin: A Hiker’s Guide to Colorado’s Prettiest Lake!

3. High Dune Trail

Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 597+ ft in sand

Located in Great Sand Dunes National Park is a hike unlike any other in Colorado, the High Dune Trail.

The High Dune Trail takes you up one of the tallest dunes in the park, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and sandscape.

It’s short but intense due to the soft, shifting sand. Don’t forget to bring a sand sled for the way down!

You can read my guide on that here: Sand Sledding At Great Sand Dunes: Everything To Know!

Read my guide: 6 Things To Do In Great Sand Dunes National Park

4. Hanging Lake

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,062 ft

This steep hike rewards you with a floating emerald lake surrounded by waterfalls and lush greenery.

It’s one of the most iconic hikes near Glenwood Springs if not in the entire state.

The trail is short but has a solid incline, so come prepared.

Hanging Lake is a protected area, so reservations are required — but it’s worth planning ahead. Book them here.

5. Bridal Veil Falls

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 859 ft

This rugged trail in Telluride leads to the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado.

At 365 feet, Bridal Veil Falls is a powerful sight — and the mist is refreshing in the summer heat.

The trail follows a gravel road, and you can hike or drive part of the way.

Read my step-by-step guide: The Ultimate Guide To Hiking Bridal Veil Falls In Telluride.

You should also check out: Telluride Brewing Company, A Colorado Brewery with Epic Views!

6. Mt. Elbert

Difficulty: Extremely Hard
Distance: 9.9 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 4,458 ft

As Colorado’s tallest mountain at 14,440 feet, Mt. Elbert is a true summer challenge.

This is a full-day effort, and you’ll need to start early, pace yourself, and prepare for changing weather.

But the views from the summit? Absolutely worth it.

I hiked Mt Elbert, and let me tell you, it was the hardest hike I have ever done and took some serious mental strength.

It’s a challenging but unforgettable hike, perfect for those looking to push themselves and take in some of the best scenery Colorado has to offer.

7. Fish Creek Falls

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.5 mies
Elevation Gain: 1,437 ft

Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs is a great spot for an easy, scenic hike.

This scenic hike leads to a roaring 280-foot waterfall just outside Steamboat Springs. It’s perfect for a midday adventure or if you’re traveling with kids.

Extend your hike to the Upper Falls Trail for a more challenging workout and stunning views.

8. Nymph Lake

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 225 ft

The hike to Nymph Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is a short and sweet adventure that’s perfect for all skill levels.

The trail is just over a mile round trip and takes you through a beautiful forest, gradually climbing to the lake.

When you reach Nymph Lake, you’ll be greeted by lily pads floating on the water and surrounding mountain views.

Step-by-step guide: Nymph Lake Hike: The Best Short Trek in RMNP.

You should also go Camping At The Glacier Basin Campground in RMNP.

9. Lake Isabelle

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 672

The Lake Isabelle hike in Ward, Colorado, is a beautiful summer adventure that offers incredible alpine scenery.

The trail is about 6.6 miles round trip and takes you through a mix of forest and open meadows with wildflowers in full bloom.

As you hike, you’ll catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks, and the trail winds along a creek that leads to the stunning Lake Isabelle.

The lake is crystal clear, surrounded by rugged mountains, and often still has patches of snow even in the summer.

It’s a peaceful spot to take a break, have a picnic, and soak in the views before heading back.

When Should I Summer Hike In Colorado?

While summer technically starts in June, you can expect the trails to be fully clear and open by late July to early September.

Summer in Colorado is a short window. But, if you time it right you will have plenty of time to explore.

Tips For Summer Hiking In Colorado

• Start Early: Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons.
• Stay Hydrated: Especially at elevation.
• Dress in Layers: Weather changes fast at higher altitudes.
• Use Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Pack Snacks + Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need.
• Respect Wildlife: Stay a safe distance and never feed animals.
• Follow Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring in.

Explore More Of Colorado

Want to admire Colorado’s wildflowers? Read my guide The 5 Best Wildflower Hikes In Colorful Colorado!

For a winter hike: A Winter Hiking Guide To Mount Sniktau: One Of Colorado’s 13ers.

For leaf peeping in the fall, Hike The Raccoon Trail in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

Read all of my Colorado Travel Guides!