The state’s busiest trails feature alpine lakes, fourteener views, red rock formations and more
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AllTrails is a trusted guide for many hikers. The community-driven outdoor recreation platform allows users to filter through hundreds of thousands of trails, download offline maps and access real-time GPS tracking, among other features.
The app is especially important to Colorado, it turns out, because the state placed second to California for the most navigations (activities recorded by app members) and elevation gained, according to 2025 data released by the company. Colorado was also third for hiking distance with 11.6 million miles logged, following Oregon and California.
But not all trails on AllTrails are created equal. Here are the 10 most popular hikes in Colorado, listed from most to least navigated using AllTrails last year. Routes range from easy to strenuous, and all are within a two-hour drive of Denver.
10) Herman Gulch
Arapaho National Forest, Dillon
Hike length: 6.6 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 1,758 feet
This short but challenging stretch of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) is especially popular during peak wildflower season. Rosy paintbrushes and blue and white columbines line the path in July, followed by golden willows in autumn. The start of this hike is especially steep, as is the last half-mile to Herman Lake, but the views are unparalleled. Plan to start early, as this trail ascends above treeline.
9) Lost Lake via Hessie Trail
Roosevelt National Forest, Eldora
Hike length: 4.2 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 830 feet
A popular day trip and backpacking destination, Lost Lake is located just west of Eldora. A free shuttle operates between the town and the Hessie Trailhead on select dates between May 22 and Oct. 11, as parking is limited. This moderate route features several waterfalls and wooden bridges over Boulder Creek, along with eight designated campsites around the lake. Note that moose are often seen on this trail.
8) Mount Bierstadt
Mount Evans Wilderness, Idaho Springs
Hike length: 7.3 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 2,736 feet
Many summit Mount Bierstadt as their first fourteener given its distance from Denver and lesser degree of difficulty. Still, this Class 2 trail demands serious effort. From the trailhead, a wooden boardwalk leads to steep switchbacks and some scrambling near the 14,064-foot peak, which offers panoramic Front Range views. Arrive before dawn to secure parking and to beat summer’s afternoon storms.
7) Lake Haiyaha via Nymph Lake Trail
Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park
Hike length: 5.2 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 1,112 feet
Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, this extension of Colorado’s most popular trail connects four alpine lakes: Nymph, Dream and Emerald, as well as Haiyaha. To reach the last in the series, take the side trail on the east end of Dream Lake, passing Longs Peak views before reaching Lake Haiyaha. Trout swim in its brilliant turquoise waters, while elk and sunbathing marmots are often seen from the path.
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6) Mount Galbraith Loop via Cedar Gulch
Mount Galbraith Park, Golden
Hike length: 4.3-mile lollipop loop
Elevation gain: 921 feet
With its easy access, moderate difficulty and expansive views, the Mount Galbraith Loop is appealing. Follow the narrow Cedar Gulch Trail, then veer left at the junction to ascend the circuit clockwise, admiring Golden scenery and the distant Denver skyline. Though rocky, the loop’s descent is shaded by pines, unlike much of this otherwise sunny hike. Be wary of rattlesnakes in the warm months.
5) Saint Mary’s Glacier
Arapaho National Forest, Idaho Springs
Hike length: 1.7 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 508 feet
Past the town of Idaho Springs, drive up forested Fall River Road to this short but famous and much-loved trail with its grand views. The route gains steady elevation to the glistening shore of Saint Mary’s Lake, which is set beneath a semi-permanent snowfield. Many hikers cool off on this patch of frost before returning the way they came. Be sure to arrive early, as lots fill quickly during peak season; there is also a $20 parking fee.
4) The Manitou Incline
Pike National Forest, Manitou Springs
Hike length: 4.1-mile loop
Elevation gain: 1,978 feet
Despite its heart-pounding difficulty, the Manitou Incline is the state’s fourth busiest trail. Railroad ties of a former cable car track create its steep staircase, which ascends around 2,000 feet in less than a mile. Downhill hiking is not permitted on the Incline, but three bailout points help ease concerns. Those who reach the top return via the Barr Trail’s switchbacks. Note: free online reservations are required.
3) Peaks to Plains and Welch Ditch
Clear Creek Canyon Park, Golden
Hike length: 2.5-mile lollipop
Elevation gain: 239 feet
Located west of downtown Golden, the Gateway Trailhead provides hikers access to this easy lollipop route, which features a short segment of the paved Clear Creek Trail (previously known as the Peaks to Plains Trail). Around the one-mile marker, cross the sturdy Welch Ditch suspension bridge and start back towards the trailhead, following along the rugged canyon walls that often draw rock climbers.
2) Red Rocks Trading Post
Red Rocks Park, Morrison
Hike length: 1.6-mile loop
Elevation gain: 364 feet
Visitors to Red Rocks Amphitheatre see a new perspective of the landscape on this short, moderate loop. The dusty path weaves between spiky yucca, twisted shrubs and towering sandstone formations of rusty hues. Despite the frequent crowds, mule deer are a common sighting. Hikers can start this trail at the Trading Post or from access points adjacent to the Upper South Lot.
1) Emerald Lake
Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park
Hike length: 3.3 miles out and back
Elevation gain: 715 feet
It may come as no surprise that Colorado’s busiest trail is set in Rocky Mountain National Park. On this moderate route, hikers pass lily pad-covered Nymph Lake and dramatic Dream Lake views before reaching the edge of sparkling Emerald Lake. From May 22 to Oct. 18, timed-entry reservations are required, and the park’s free shuttle is recommended, given limited parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead.
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